Quote:
Originally Posted by strat61caster
Depends.
By adding gas you can get off the clutch more quickly, but you're also spinning the clutch at a higher rpm thus generating more friction (slippage). With no gas the action of engaging the transmission takes place over a longer time but at a lower rpm so there's less friction (slippage) but it's applied over a longer period of time.
It's a balance and there's no correct answer, the only right answer is whatever method you feel comfortable with that results in smooth, safe and comfortable motoring.
Edit: unless you're speaking about 'feathering' the clutch to keep the car at a speed below what the car would travel at with the clutch completely engaged (foot off the pedal), in which case that does add wear to the clutch and you're usually not using the gas, but this should be within normal operating modes. People seem to forget that the clutch is a wear item on a car and it is designed to be replaced. |
IIRC, the clutch is a wear item (like brake pads).
Regardless of how you use them, as long as you use them, they will wear out.
The question is which method can spare the most unnecessary wear and tear.