Actually, there is no "correct way" on this. It is a matter of choice. Many will (and have) extolled the virtues of downshifting or free coasting but most of this is in light of "wear & tear" issues on the drivetrain components. Personally, I downshift 99.99% of the time.

The car will buck some during the downshift IF you do not match engine speed to tranny speed in the downshift. This is done by "blipping" the throttle slightly as you release the clutch on each downshift. It does not have to be done - just makes for a smoother ride and makes you a better "stick driver". If your car is bucking pretty strongly on your downshifts (without throttle blipping) and you are not trying to drop it into 2nd gear from some outrageous speed, then you are probably releasing the clutch a bit too fast...don't "ride" the clutch out real slow nor quick release it too fast. Hint: it takes practice!

No problem doing this whatsoever as long as your not ******* the engine nor slipping the clutch too much to get underway. (quick way to wear out a clutch)

Try different things with it...it isn't going to break...the more you try stuff out, the better you'll learn how the car likes to be driven (they are a bit like a fine woman you know!) and how you are most comfortable driving it. Most of all...have fun!

b

 

barek,

Thanks for the advice. I have been trying out different ways to handle the 6 spd. I've figured out that if I rev the engine as I shift into the next gear that I get a smoother shift-response (no jerking motion). And yes, I do think that I am "breaking" something when I dont shift correctly. I guess I'll get over that feeling soon. I have been warned not to drive the clutch and I have made a good effort at avoiding that.

I noticed that your C6 was born the day after mine, 10/21/04 VIN 6325. Really enjoying it, hope you are too!

 

You're very welcome! Don't worry too much...these beauties are built to take more of a pounding than most give them credit for. I "birthed" 6439 on the 21st...have the certificate here...birthed mine the following morning. I have museum delivery scheduled for Monday the 15th!

b

 

Good luck and enjoy!

 

That is what I always do... more wear if I keep the clutch depress... just like when braking... I tend to use the brakes instead of the clutch (down shifting)... less expensive to change brake pads than a clutch...

 

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/showthread.php?t=927981

You are too kind!

Doc Rings
"Keeper of the FAQ"

 

Doc,
You've got so much valuable information in there that sometimes I think that every little thing that comes up is probably in there. Lots of times, I'm pretty sure about it, but I really need to read it a little more often than I do.

Appreciate all your hard work putting that together and keeping it updated.

You the man, Doc.

 

mine does this as well... when stuck at a green light, I've started in 2nd. I'm waiting to see if things break in better before taking mine in. Now, another question for the 6 speed owners out there... Do any of your clutch pedals click when you press it in?

 

No. Never. Not even when doing back to back 1/4 mile runs. My 99 C5 used to stick halfway up all the time until I removed the spring. Common issue on the C5. No problem on the C6 for me and I haven't heard of the issue with anyone else either on a C6.

Mike

 

328 miles and no issue with clutch pedal here....