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Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 27
Likes: 32
From: Akron, OH
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Hello, like any red blooded American, I always wanted a Corvette and have an older friends 2001 C5 convertible with 6 speed manual in my garage for a few days to see if I want to buy it. So, I really want to buy it, but I really need your help with one thing.
The manual transmission. Need a great link to how to really drive this manual. 25 years ago I could qualify on ancient Army semi's and drive my brother's manual little girly car. I have not driven a std in at least 15 years. It just isn't coming back to me, especially from a dead stop. Not too mention that 1st to 4th nonsense?
Any help would be appreciated so I can truly join the Corvette club!
Because if you can't drive it, you shouldn't own it.
Thanks
The manual transmission. Need a great link to how to really drive this manual. 25 years ago I could qualify on ancient Army semi's and drive my brother's manual little girly car. I have not driven a std in at least 15 years. It just isn't coming back to me, especially from a dead stop. Not too mention that 1st to 4th nonsense?
Any help would be appreciated so I can truly join the Corvette club!
Because if you can't drive it, you shouldn't own it.
Thanks
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From: Hickory NC
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Welcome to the Forum!
Don't despair over driving the manual trans; it will come back in time. Confirm with your friend that the clutch is in good condition. A clutch going out could affect your getting a good take off from being stopped.
As you are probably aware the 1-4 jump was just to keep the fuel economy up to avoid a gas guzzler tax and to help Chevrolet meet its CAFE averages. You can simply disconnect the solenoid (typically you would get a code), or you can buy for $10-$15 a CAGS eliminator kit.
Lot of great members and helpful info in the C5 sections at https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...s-1997-2004-2/.
Also, you may want to check in https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...discussion-9/; see if there are any Corvette get togethers in your area. Possibly someone there (or your friend selling the C5) could ride with you and see if they have any pointers regarding your clutch use.
Enjoy your ride and save the wave!
Don't despair over driving the manual trans; it will come back in time. Confirm with your friend that the clutch is in good condition. A clutch going out could affect your getting a good take off from being stopped.
As you are probably aware the 1-4 jump was just to keep the fuel economy up to avoid a gas guzzler tax and to help Chevrolet meet its CAFE averages. You can simply disconnect the solenoid (typically you would get a code), or you can buy for $10-$15 a CAGS eliminator kit.
Lot of great members and helpful info in the C5 sections at https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...s-1997-2004-2/.
Also, you may want to check in https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...discussion-9/; see if there are any Corvette get togethers in your area. Possibly someone there (or your friend selling the C5) could ride with you and see if they have any pointers regarding your clutch use.
Enjoy your ride and save the wave!
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 27
Likes: 32
From: Akron, OH
Thanks
I knew bad clutches! My dad had a 79 Jeep Cherokee manual in 83 when I got my license and waited till the clutch needed replaced to teach me how to drive std. Then I drove my brothers little Astre or Colt some before moving into some Army trucks in late 80's, early 90's that were leftover from Vietnam era. The last Army semi I qualified on in 94 was actually automatic. Really been thinking and suspect the last time I drove std was my brothers Blazer, at least 15 yrs ago.
I knew bad clutches! My dad had a 79 Jeep Cherokee manual in 83 when I got my license and waited till the clutch needed replaced to teach me how to drive std. Then I drove my brothers little Astre or Colt some before moving into some Army trucks in late 80's, early 90's that were leftover from Vietnam era. The last Army semi I qualified on in 94 was actually automatic. Really been thinking and suspect the last time I drove std was my brothers Blazer, at least 15 yrs ago.
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Welcome and good luck in your decision to by a Corvette. Best thing to do with a manual tranny is to just practice your takeoffs and shifting. Every car can have a different engagement point for the clutch. Even if you do not get the chance to practice a lot with your friend’s car, the techniques are not that difficult.
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