question for expert stick shift drivers

[Redline]

When I launch a car as fast as I can..i let the clutch slip...instead of dropping it.

I was wondering...after 1st gear...can I start dropping the clutch through every gear on up?

I slip the clutch because I was told if I drop the clutch on a launch..my transmission would take a big hit....and transmission is more complicated to fix than a replacement of a burnt clutch.

[d3syd]

I certainly do more or less. Once the car is moving, releasing the clutch fast is ok because you are not jamming a moving bit into a stationary bit, as when at launch.

[Redline]

But you still wouldn't let the clutch "drop" though right? Letting the clutch out fast doesn't mean dropping it.


Another question is..what are your oppinions on non rev matching downshifts? I always rev match mine..because I keep thinkin I might break something if I non rev match downshift.

[d3syd]

Definitely need to have some revs happening when you downshift. But don't worry too much as the engine won't be at idle speed anyway when you shift down.

The idea is to brake, declutch, select lower gear, let car and revs drop to an appropriate speed for the gear selected, then re-engage clutch. All this happens second nature and seamlessly after a while. Easy.

[E82tt6]

You can operate the clutch as fast as is humanly possible while upshifting, and it won't result in anything worse than a little wheelspin.

BMWs are tricky to launch, not really drag cars. A fast slip from around 2000-3000rpms usually seems to work.

[plien69]

To really launch quickly, it's a combination of: a) finding the optimal launch RPM, b) "dropping" the clutch, c) managing wheelspin through the throttle.

But really, who does this during daily driving on the road? It's rough on the driveline, and calls attention to yourself in a bad way. I'm betting most people still let the clutch slip a little bit when starting off "briskly."

Also, once you start rev matching your downshifts, you'll automatically do it for each downshift, whether you really need to or not. It just becomes a habit.

[ARES45]

This is why I love Automatics, driving doesn't interupt my lunch or my cell phone convo, not even my morning shave is hindered.

[curtdragon]

Originally Posted by ARES45

This is why I love Automatics, driving doesn't interupt my lunch or my cell phone convo, not even my morning shave is hindered.

lol shaving while driving

[Redline]

Dropping the clutch on first gear will soon enough destroy something if no the transmission. I learned that before.

I am actually driving an old porsche that has a really weird foot setup. Heel toe can't be done. I would have to brake first..then do single clutch :bs: