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MK2
Dynamics |
The whole MK2 Galaxy range benefits from a new steering column,
which is rake and reach adjustable, and has reduced friction to
give improved steering feel at all speeds, and the purposeful
new steering wheel also adds to the driver’s overall feeling
of control.
Spring and damper rates have been reviewed and optimised to suit
the new powertrains. The MK2 Ford Galaxy is also ideally suited
to the optional Sports Pack, which includes a new sports suspension
package to improve handling and reduce roll with only minimal
trade-off in ride comfort. The package reduces ride height by
25 mm, incorporates high performance shock absorbers, higher rated
springs all round and larger diameter front and rear anti-roll
bars and is matched to a purposeful body styling kit.
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ESP (Electronic
Stability Programme) now makes its debut in the Galaxy range
and one of its first appearances as standard equipment in
this market segment. It was available as standard with the
V6 engine, or as an option on other models. An active safety
system, ESP helps the driver retain control under extreme
conditions, intervening almost imperceptibly to correct understeer
or oversteer.
The ESP sensors measure ‘yaw rate’, transverse
acceleration, steering wheel angle and the speed of the four
road wheels. Their output is used to compare vehicle behaviour
with a dynamics handling map stored in a special on-board
computer. When the system detects a tendency for the vehicle
to move off the chosen line, engine power is reduced and the
brakes are momentarily applied to individual wheels, to bring
the vehicle back on course.
Brakes have also been uprated for the more powerful Mk2 V6
engine. The vented front discs are increased from 280 mm to
313 mm, while the rear discs change from 280 mm solid to 294
mm vented.
Other features relating to driving dynamics of the Mk2 Ford
Galaxy include:
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Anti-lock brakes as standard across the range, with disc
brakes front and rear
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Rack
and pinion steering with power assistance
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Suspension
by independent MacPherson struts with lower wishbones at
the front and independent semi-tailing arms on sub-frame
at the rear. Anti-roll bars front and rear, and gas-filled
dampers all round
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Traction
control optional with the 2.3-litre engine
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