2019 Camaro ZL1 1LE with 10-Speed Automatic Transmission

The 2019 Camaro ZL1 1LE (Fig. 1) now offers an available 10-speed 10L90 automatic transmission (RPO MGL). Unique calibrations were developed for the transmission as well as the Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) and Performance Traction Management (PTM) system on the ZL1 1LE model.

The ZL1 1LE Extreme Track Performance Package makes the Camaro the ultimate track day model. There are a number of track-focused features that require special attention that owners should consider before and after driving on a closed course.

 

Fig. 1

 

10-Speed Automatic Transmission

The 10-speed automatic transmission is programmed with a special Track Mode shift pattern that will command upshifts at higher engine rpm, and will rev match all downshifts when coasting to a stop. This shift pattern is different than the regular ZL1. Upshifts will typically occur around 3,000 rpm, and downshifts will be commanded around 2,000 rpm under normal driving conditions.

While driving in Track Mode or Sport Mode (Fig. 2), if tap shift has not been activated, the transmission may remain in a gear longer than it would in the normal driving mode based on throttle input and vehicle lateral acceleration. If there is a rapid reduction in throttle from a heavy throttle position at high rpm, the transmission will maintain the current gear up to near redline rpm. While braking, the transmission will automatically downshift to the next lower gear, keeping engine speed above approximately 3,000 rpm. If the vehicle is then driven for a short time at a steady speed, without high cornering loads, the transmission will upshift one gear at a time until 10th gear is reached. After shifting to 10th gear, or coming to a complete stop, the transmission will return to normal Sport Mode shifting.

TIP: Manually shifting (or tap-shifting) the automatic transmission during track events can lead to slower track times and may induce higher transmission temperatures.

 

Fig. 2

 

The transmission fluid in the 10-speed automatic transmission also should be changed after every 15 hours of track use.

 

Suspension Settings

The Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV™) dampers (Fig. 3) provide added track performance. The front struts are manufactured with aluminum bodies instead of steel. The rear damper tuning is different for the ZL1 1LE models with the automatic transmission compared to the manual transmission in order to accommodate the quicker shifts in weight transfer.

The DSSV™ dampers are hard-mounted to the shock towers without rubber isolation, providing more rigidity and precise control. Along with increased track performance, this can enable additional noise transfer to the front vehicle structure compared to conventional rubber isolated damper mounting in the ZL1 and other car variants.

 

Fig. 3

 

The front strut top mount can be positioned two ways. The original setting is in the street position, but it can be turned 180° to the track position for additional negative camber on the front. The front struts also have a threaded spring seat that allows adjustment of the preload on the front springs. The vehicle corner weights and front trim heights can be adjusted. The spring seat can be adjusted approximately 0.4 inch (10 mm) up or down from the nominal position. Each complete turn of the spring perch will change the vehicle height approximately 0.06 inch (1.5 mm). Do not allow the spring seat to contact the black dust boot when adjusting in the maximum upward direction.

The rear stabilizer bar ends have three attachment positions that adjust the rear roll stiffness of the vehicle. The stabilizer bar stiffness increases approximately 15% using the rearward holes, or decreases approximately 10% using the forward holes.

 

Launch Control

The custom launch control setting (Fig 4) allows the driver to adjust the rpm range down to 800 rpm. It is recommended to set the rpm setting for launch control at no less than 1,200 rpm. A launch control setting of less than 1,200 rpm will produce an unpleasant sound.

 

Fig. 4

 

Track Events

On track days, do not use SAE 0W-40 oil. For track events and competitive driving, the engine oil must be changed to Mobil 1 15W-50. The engine oil should be changed after four hours of accumulative track usage. After track usage, the engine oil must be changed back to the engine oil recommended in the Camaro High Performance Owner’s Manual Supplement.

The power steering deflectors also should be installed for track purposes only. The deflectors are included in the package of loose shipped items. Do not install the deflectors during PDI. Refer to Bulletin #16-NA-369 for items to be installed at PDI.

The deflectors provide additional underbody cooling during track events. Installing the power steering deflectors requires the engine side shields to be removed. The engine side shields and fasteners should be retained and reinstalled after the track event to protect the engine compartment from additional water intrusion.

Additional information about getting the ZL1 1LE ready for a day at the track can be found in the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro Track Preparation Guide (Fig. 5) that is available on the Chevrolet Owners website at my.chevrolet.com. The track prep guide covers:

  • Break-In Schedule
  • Brake Burnish Procedure
  • Tire Deflectors and Splash Shields
  • Tire Pressures and Alignment Settings
  • Fluid Requirements/Maintenance Schedule
  • Suspension Adjustments
  • Suspension Tuning Recommendations

 

Fig. 5

 

– Thanks to Ann Briedis

 

 

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Electronic Limited Slip Differential DIC Screens

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