Is it really necessary to use the clutch when downshifting?.....
#16
Addict
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
When Ron Zitza coached me a few weeks ago, he laughed when I asked that same question. He is a proponent of double clutching. He drove my Boxster and I couldn't tell his double clutch apart from a normal heel/toe. He is very smooth and that Boxster has never gotten around Sebring so fast ever before! It was cool seeing cars with much higher HP giving him the point by, something I've yet to experience.
#19
Rennlist Member
I don't think double clutching precludes heel/toe.
Double-Clutch is a habit from 30 years ago. After a while, the older synchro's were toasted and you HAD to. Modern gear boxes don't require it as much. If you pay for your own maintenance, it isn't a bad thing to do. Try going from 2->1 with any speed WITHOUT double-clutching.
So I do it when I can - which isn't often on the track.
Double-Clutch is a habit from 30 years ago. After a while, the older synchro's were toasted and you HAD to. Modern gear boxes don't require it as much. If you pay for your own maintenance, it isn't a bad thing to do. Try going from 2->1 with any speed WITHOUT double-clutching.
So I do it when I can - which isn't often on the track.
#21
Am I missing something? If you are double-clutching you aren't braking, if you are heel-toeing you are.
As dan212 pointed out, I found it a useful skill to practice for going from 2nd to 1st on AX courses.
#22
Rennlist Member
Thread Starter
Thanks for the inputs.....
I have decided that I will try the clutchless downshift myself with full video and sound on......
Just as soon as someone offers me their race car to try it in.......
I have decided that I will try the clutchless downshift myself with full video and sound on......
Just as soon as someone offers me their race car to try it in.......
#26
Rennlist Member
only reason for a clutch in a formula ford with a hewland is getting rolling from a standing stop. (ok and I guess to prevent stalling engine while spinning)
Otherwise it slides in and out of gear like a rifle bolt, and sounds like a paddle shifter at speed...
Otherwise it slides in and out of gear like a rifle bolt, and sounds like a paddle shifter at speed...