Proper Clutch Use
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Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 69
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From: Ridgecrest CA
Proper Clutch Use
After driving beaters with manuals for years, I have developed a habit of not always depressing the clutch all the way when shifting. I'm I putting any extra strain or wear on anything?
Thank you......Stan
Thank you......Stan
Resident moron
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 4,746
Likes: 20
From: Assachusetts
Re: Proper Clutch Use (Stan47)
From what I understand, no.
You don't have to press the clutch all the way in, SO LONG as the clutch is actually fully disengaged. As long as you went past the point where the clutch is fully disengaged (but not completely to the floor) then you're good.
This is my understanding. I hope I'm right too ;)
Dope
You don't have to press the clutch all the way in, SO LONG as the clutch is actually fully disengaged. As long as you went past the point where the clutch is fully disengaged (but not completely to the floor) then you're good.
This is my understanding. I hope I'm right too ;)
Dope
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,183
Likes: 5
Re: Proper Clutch Use (martin97c5)
While we're on the subject, is it better to brake to lower speeds and THEN to downshift once you've already reached the lower speed? OR do you recommend using your gears to lower the speed for you? I've been downshifting to lower my speed for the most part, and I was thinking.. this probably puts a lot of wear on the clutch. Brakes are cheaper than clutches.. so what do you guys think?
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 38
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From: NH
Re: Proper Clutch Use (vectorz)
engine braking is common practice. if you're just staying in the same gear, but letting off the gas and letting the engine slow you down, there isn't any added wear to the clutch. and a downshift and then letting the clutch out won't hurt things much either, as long as you're matching the rpms well enough. its slipping the clutch that wears it out, in either up or down gears.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,183
Likes: 5
Re: Proper Clutch Use (Soon-2B-FRC)
Example, if I'm in 6th going about 100mph but need to slow down to about 80, letting go of the clutch doesn't slow me down really, it's almost like coasting. I then try to downshift to 5th, which DOES seem like it creates wear on the clutch.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 9,251
Likes: 217
From: 2007 Nat'l Corvette Challenge 11.50 index Champ. New Jersey
Re: Proper Clutch Use (vectorz)
Why do you need to down shift to slow down from 100-80? Just brake, then get back on the gas. Just don't expect to go from 80-100 super fast in 6th gear. 80mph in 6th gear is fine!!! :auto:
