What is the correct operation method for manual transmission gear shifting?
2 Answers
Here is the correct operation method for manual transmission gear shifting: 1. Appropriate gear speed and gear position: The adaptation range of each gear is from the lowest gear speed to the highest gear speed, and prolonged use of the lowest or highest gear speed should be avoided as much as possible. 2. Gear shifting: In principle, as long as the gear speed range is reached, gear shifting can be performed. The choice of gear position should consider vehicle speed, power performance, and fuel economy. 3. Lugging: Speeds below the lowest gear speed are generally referred to as lugging, which can cause the vehicle to lose power and jerk forward and backward, and in severe cases, can lead to engine stalling. 4. Upshifting: When the vehicle speed reaches the speed of the next higher gear, upshifting should be performed. Generally, for high-speed vehicles, upshifting is performed when the engine speed is between 3500-4500 rpm. 5. Downshifting: When the vehicle speed approaches the lowest speed of the current gear, downshifting should be performed. For high-speed vehicles, the timing for downshifting should be within the mid to slightly low range of the current gear speed, and should not be later than the lowest speed of the current gear. The choice of downshifting timing should be based on road conditions and power requirements.
Having driven manual transmission cars for over a decade, I believe the key to gear shifting lies in timing and smoothness. When upshifting, wait until the speed increases and the RPM reaches around 2500, gently press the clutch, move the gear lever to the next higher position, such as from second to third gear, then slowly release the clutch while smoothly applying the throttle to avoid jerking. Downshifting should be done in anticipation of deceleration, like when slowing down before a red light by pressing the brake and simultaneously engaging the clutch to shift to a lower gear. If the road is slippery or the curve is sharp, remember to match the RPM by lightly tapping the throttle before releasing the clutch to prevent the car from lurching forward. With more practice, you'll find the rhythm. Keeping shifts between 2000-3000 RPM during commutes is the most fuel-efficient and safe. Avoid sudden downshifts at high speeds to prevent engine roaring, and don't use high gears at low speeds to avoid lugging the engine.
