Mastering Manual Car Driving Techniques

Aug 23, 2024

Manual Driving Tutorial Notes

Introduction

  • Focus of the video: how to move a manual car, change gears, and stop correctly.
  • Importance for beginners and those preparing for driving lessons.
  • Encouragement to subscribe to the channel for regular updates.

Moving Off

  • Initial Checks:

    • Center mirror, left mirror, signal left.
    • Gently brake without rushing for the clutch (avoid coasting).
    • Position the car close to the curb.
  • Starting the Car:

    • Ensure all dashboard lights turn off after starting (only handbrake light remains).
    • Understand the rev counter (left) and speedometer (right).
  • Setting Up to Move:

    • Clutch fully down, select first gear (left and up).
    • Set gas to 1.5-2,000 revs.
    • Bring the clutch to the biting point (feel the car move slightly).

Observations Before Moving

  • Important to keep feet still at biting point.
  • Conduct thorough checks:
    • Left blind spot, left mirror, ahead for oncoming traffic.
    • Center mirror, check behind.
    • Right mirror, then right blind spot.

Accelerating and Changing Gears

  • Moving Off:
    • After checks, slowly bring the clutch up and gently accelerate.
  • Changing Gears:
    • Change at around 2,000 revs:
      • 1st to 2nd Gear:
        • Off the gas, clutch down, select 2nd gear, bring clutch up, accelerate.
      • 2nd to 3rd Gear:
        • Same process, maintain timing around 2,000 revs.

Stopping the Car

  • Check mirrors, signal left, gently brake.
  • Avoid rushing the clutch to prevent coasting.
  • Position the car close to the curb, put clutch down, brake gently.
  • Secure the car with the handbrake once stationary, then select neutral.
  • Remember to only take foot off the clutch when in neutral.

Common Mistakes and Their Effects

  • Changing Gears Too Early:
    • Car jerks, less power, potential stalling uphill.
  • Changing Gears Too Late:
    • Engine sounds increase, waste fuel, higher costs.

Conclusion

  • Key points for driving:
    • Timing for gear changes:
      • 1-2 at ~10 mph, 2-3 at ~20 mph, generally at ~2,000 revs.
  • Reminder to like and subscribe for more driving tutorials.