How to clutch correctly?

How do I get the clutch right? 

For engage correctlyIt's essential to master the coordination between clutch pedal, gas pedal and gearshift:

• start by depressing the clutch pedal fully with your left foot;
• shift into the desired gear with the gearshift lever;
• gradually release the clutch pedal while gently depressing the gas pedal;
• find the slip point where the clutch begins to engage;
• continue to release the clutch while accelerating slightly.

The key to a good clutch lies in the smooth, progressive progressive movements. With practice, you'll naturally feel the balance point between clutch and throttle, enabling you to maintain a good position for your feet. This will make your starts and gear changes smoother.

What are the common clutch errors to avoid?

Several common mistakes can damage your clutch and shorten its life:

• keep your left foot on the clutch pedal This habit causes premature wear of the clutch release bearing;
• keep your hand on the gearshift This exerts constant pressure on the transmission mechanism, causing long-term wear;
• releasing the pedal too suddenly This could cause the engine to stall or jerk;
• engage without having reached the correct engine speed This can cause the vehicle to shake and lead to premature wear of the clutch and gearbox;
• do not shift into neutral when stationary For example, disengaging the clutch for a long time at a red light puts unnecessary strain on the clutch.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll preserve your clutch and avoid costly repairs. A well-maintained clutch can last much longer, ensuring smoother, more economical driving.

How to control the skating point to avoid stalling?

Whether you're a learner driver, a young driver, or even an experienced driver familiarizing yourself with a new vehicle, the fear of stalling is often present.

To overcome this apprehension, don't hesitate to practice in a quiet placeaway from traffic. This will enable you torefine your sensations and pinpoint your vehicle's skid point.

As a rule, with practice, finding the skid point becomes obvious, making your starts and gear changes smoother and reducing the risk of stalling.

Why brake before clutching? 

When you want to slow down your vehicle, brake before clutching. clutch and shift down a gear has several important mechanical benefits for your vehicle:

• using the engine brake by braking before clutchyou benefit from engine braking, which helps to slow the vehicle down more effectively;
• improved stability Maintaining the connection between the motor and the wheels enables impulse to be transmitted to the wheels, ensuring greater vehicle stability during braking;
• fuel economy Engine braking reduces fuel consumption because the engine does not inject fuel when driven by the wheels;
• greater safety The brake lights come on as soon as you depress the brake pedal, warning drivers behind you that your vehicle is slowing down;
• clutch preservation This technique reduces clutch wear by minimizing the amount of time the clutch is in use.

It's important to note that this rule applies mainly at speeds above 20 km/h. At very low speeds, it may sometimes be smoother to disengage slightly before braking, but in most situations, braking before clutch is still best practice.

What are the specific clutch techniques for difficult situations?

Some driving situations require special clutch techniques. These include hill-starting, driving in traffic jams, starting on slippery surfaces, and maneuvering at very low speeds. 

If you have to a hill start :

• first use the handbrake to stop the vehicle;
• find the slip point by gently releasing the clutch; 
• Accelerate slightly during the slip phase and release the handbrake at the same time; 
• gradually release the clutch while accelerating.

If you need to deal with driving situations in congested areas :

• keep your foot on the clutch; 
• move forward slowly, playing with the skating point; 
• avoid accelerating, to let the vehicle idle.

If you have to start your vehicle on a slippery surface :

• start in second gear to reduce the torque transmitted to the wheels;
• release the clutch very slowly to avoid wheel spin ;
• accelerate gently to maintain grip.

Finally, should you need to manoeuvre your car at very low speed :

• use only the clutch to control speed; 
• maintain the skating point without accelerating; 
• adjust speed by modulating pressure on the clutch pedal.

These techniques take practice to master. Don't hesitate to practice in a safe place to perfect your clutch control in these difficult situations.

If, during the life of your car, you need to replace your manual or automatic gearbox, EDEN BOITES has the right solution for you. Our extensive product selection covers a wide range of vehicles, from city cars to sports cars, including Fiat 500 gearboxes gearboxes to Mini Cooper gearboxes.

Our website allows you to purchase your part and benefit from fast delivery. Upon receipt, your regular mechanic can install it in your vehicle. 

We also offer agearbox exchange service. You can acquire a reconditioned gearbox and benefit from a free trade-in of your old transmission.