Should the Brake Be Released Slowly or Quickly When Starting on a Slope?
2 Answers
When starting on a slope, the brake should be released slowly to avoid stalling. Below are specific details about slope starting: Method for Starting on a Slope: Slow Start: When starting on a slope, slowly release the clutch pedal with your left foot until the vehicle begins to vibrate slightly. Hold this position briefly to confirm if the vehicle has the tendency and power to move forward. Do not continue to lift the clutch pedal further to prevent stalling. Gradual Acceleration: Only when the vehicle starts moving forward should you fully release the handbrake with your right hand and gradually apply the throttle. When starting on a slope, if you don't apply the throttle, the idle speed may be insufficient to move the vehicle, leading to stalling. Methods to Avoid Rolling Back or Stalling When Starting on a Slope: You can use the handbrake to prevent this. When braking, start by applying the throttle while holding the handbrake. Place your right hand on the handbrake, gently lift the clutch with your left foot, slightly press the throttle with your right foot, then gently lift the clutch again to reach the semi-engaged state. Keep the clutch steady, apply a bit more throttle, and immediately release the handbrake. It's crucial to focus on the clutch engagement point and maintain a good semi-engaged state. Apply throttle before engaging the clutch. When braking, brake first before disengaging the clutch. After pressing the brake to a certain extent, the vehicle will shake, indicating that the engine can no longer drive the gears due to the resistance from braking. At this point, you need to press the clutch to cut off the engine's power transmission, thereby avoiding stalling.
I've been driving manual transmission cars for over twenty years, and hill starts absolutely require skill. You must release the brake slowly, without any rush. First, firmly press the brake, then gradually lift the clutch pedal with your left foot to the biting point—the car will slightly tremble. At this moment, keep your right foot steady on the brake, start slowly releasing the brake pedal, and gently press the accelerator to give it some gas. The whole process requires good coordination; if you release the brake too quickly and the engine power doesn't engage in time, the car will definitely roll back. This is especially true when fully loaded or on slippery roads, where problems are more likely. When I was younger, I once released the brake too quickly and almost hit my head on the steering wheel. Now, every time I'm on a slope, I tell my apprentices that the key is the clutch biting point and slow brake release. Mastering this delicate operation ensures a stable and safe start.
