by T.C Leonard

Created on: February 07, 2009

Being able to manipulate an automobile with a standard transmission opens doors to a brand new driving experience. For example, a stick shift offers more control in poor weather conditions, more power when downshifting while going up steep hills, greater control while going around turns, and added pickup from stationary or low speed situations (entrance ramps, stop lights, etc). Nevertheless, a stick evokes fear in young drivers, and many people go so far as to never learn to drive a car with a manual transmission. Like all fears, the so-called difficulties of learning to drive a stick are unfounded, and most people can learn the basics in a couple of simple lessons, and within a month the majority of drivers will be as seasoned of a pro as those who taught them. Let's get started!

Like any other learning experience, it's a good idea to make the driver comfortable. I recommend finding a deserted gravel road or long driveway, and with the motor off, let the beginner get a feel for the gear pattern. Now it's time to start the engine, which can only be accomplished with the clutch fully depressed. Remember that shifting into first gear and merely getting the vehicle to move can be frustrating, but it can be accomplished by slowly releasing the clutch and giving light pressure to the gas pedal as the clutch is nearly all the way out. Repeat this several times as the student becomes familiar with the procedure, and when this is accomplished, do the same in reverse. Dumping the clutch while going backward is a sure fire way to stall the car; thus, familiarity with the gear pattern and release point in the clutch is essential. Once reverse is conquered, it's time to go forward again, but not without a little reading from the owner's manual.

This is an approximation, but with most six speed vehicles, shifts occur at the following speeds:

1st to 2nd...10 mph

2nd to 3rd...25 mph

3rd to 4th...35 mph

4th to 5th...45 mph

5th to 6th...55 mph

Okay, now it's time to start out and rev the engine up a bit. At ten miles per hour, fully depress the clutch and pull the shifter straight back into second. At this point, it should be stressed that the car should be in neutral when coming to a stop. I can almost guarantee that a stick newbie will stall the engine once or twice along the way, but that comes with the territory. With a little practice, it's easy enough, but the shift from second to third is a bit more difficult. It's an awkward push up and to the right, but there is a way of

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>