Driving a clutch

[Andy A.]

Originally posted by AdamT
Tip: Find a hill like MsInformation said, except instead of just starting up, find that "sweet spot" where you have enough gas going and the clutch engaged enough so that you don't move due to the engine and not a brake.

Holding a car on a hill using your clutch is a great way to destroy the clutch. Anytime the clutch is between fully engaged and fully disengaged (like when using it to hold your self on a hill) it is going to wear. So, if you are on a hill, hold your self with your breaks, not the clutch. I usually shift into neutral when I come to a stop, just so I don't accidentally let up on the clutch.

Thats why it is so important to practice hill starts. The faster and smoother you can feed the clutch, the longer it will last and the happier you're car will be.

But, hill starts are always difficult, I still stall every now and then. So, all you people who drive autos, do everyone a favor and DON'T TAILGATE PEOPLE WHO ARE STOPPED ON A HILL. You'll probably freak out a new stick driver and end up with him sliding right back into you. So leave a few feet in between.

-Andy A.