What is the method for pressing the clutch?
2 Answers
The method for pressing the clutch mainly includes: 1. When using the clutch, hold the steering wheel steady, place the sole of your left foot on the clutch pedal, and press or release it using the extension and flexion movements of your knee and ankle joints. 2. When pressing the clutch pedal, the engine power is separated from the transmission part. The pressing action should be quick and done in one go to ensure complete separation, preventing the clutch from slipping and accelerating wear. 3. When releasing the clutch pedal, the engine power is engaged with the transmission part, but the engagement should be gradual, and the speed of release should be determined based on the need. Additional content: When starting, you can initially release the clutch quickly for a short distance, which is the free travel of the pressure plate. Once the pressure plate presses against the driven plate, the engine sound becomes heavier, and the body shakes slightly. Pause the pedal at this position, quickly release the handbrake, and when the car starts moving, slowly release the clutch while gradually pressing the accelerator with your right foot. Once the clutch is fully engaged, you can quickly move your foot away.
Learning the method of pressing the clutch is the core foundation when driving a manual transmission. Every time I drive, I make sure to press the clutch pedal all the way down to completely disconnect the engine from the transmission, avoiding any grinding noises during gear shifts. Starting is the most critical moment: first, press the clutch all the way down and shift into first gear, then slowly release the pedal to find the biting point—when the car slightly vibrates or starts moving—while gently pressing the accelerator to smoothly increase power, allowing the car to move smoothly. When shifting gears, also press the clutch all the way down and complete the shift quickly, lifting it slowly to reduce jerking. Before stopping, press the clutch along with the brake to slow down and stop steadily, preventing the engine from stalling suddenly. Avoid developing the bad habit of coasting with the clutch pressed during daily driving, as this accelerates wear. Overall, the operation should be as smooth as a slow dance, balancing safety and vehicle longevity. After driving a manual transmission a few times, it becomes second nature—it’s not complicated at all.
