Re: manual shifting (archive)

I�ve had manuals exclusively all my life (except for one automatic-which is another story). Rear-wheel drive cars have their floor shifter connected directly into the transmission below. This typically allows for a tight and fast shift. Front-drive cars and in the case of the X, have their transmission tucked up close to the motor and the shifter is connected either by rods or wires. This is not as positive a connection as the direct approach of the rear-drive layout. Consequently, you need to move the shifter smoothly without yanking it into the next gear in order to get a good shift.

I've found that the engine management system does cause the motor to hold the RPMs momentarily. This is not a problem except when you try a �slam-it-in� style shift.

Don�t get discouraged. Good consistent shifting takes practice and being attuned to your car. And when you�re able to run through the gears smoothly, it�s a real joy!

I posted earlier about a growling sound in the clutch during hard acceleration. I've noticed that if I shift "correctly" (match engine rpm to vehicle speed and then pop the clutch) I do not experience the sound.

But I notice with this shifting technique that when I engage the clutch, it takes awhile for the engine to slow down to the correct rpm for the next gear. Thus, shifts have to be very slow -- at least a second of waiting for the engine to slow down, especially 1-2. I have little experience with sticks, so I wondered if this was normal. Who else knows what the &*%# I'm talking about? What can be done to speed things up without slipping the clutch? I step off the gas just before engaging the clutch to help slow down the engine, which helps.

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Re: manual shifting Sam 13:29 3/22/2002 (0)

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