Re: Quattro Digest V2 #437

[raf40@oes.amdahl.com (Richard Funnell)]

>On Fri, 15 Sep 1995, Walter Meares wrote:
>
>> True.  The technique was needed for shifting an unsynchronized
>> transmission smoothly.  It's not necessary to use double
>> clutching to match revs with a synchronized trans; just match revs
>> while moving through neutral by manipulating the throttle.  Actually,
>> if your *really* good, you can shift your synchronized transmission
>> without even using the  clutch, but of course if you do this and
>> the Audi gods don't like it then great $acrifice$ will be demanded
>> of you...
>>
>
>Right, but if you dont let out the clutch pedal while in neutral, your
>input shaft of the tranny isnt moving, therefore doing no good. Your best
>bet is (if you insist on even using the clutch) is to pull out of gear
>with no load on the gear (positive or negative) pull it into neutral,
>match the revs, then clutch and go into next gear.

And I thought I invented that technique in my MGA a few eons ago.  This
seems to work better on some cars than others.  It was my standard practice
on the MG, but my urQ doesn't like it as well (or I'm getting rusty).
Driving without the clutch at all also worked well, but with no margin for
error when blipping the throttle.

>There is an easier way, but I cant give away ALL my secrets! :)
>
>Bob
>

 I recently attended the 1/2 day compressed course (Russell Test Drive) in
Laguna Seca.  When the intructor taught heel and toeing, he did not include
re-engaging the clutch before blipping the throttle.  I asked about that
and he said it isn't necessary on the Formula Fords they were using, even
though they didn't have synchro.  Sure enough, their technique seemed to
work fine, matching the engine speed but not the internal transmission
shaft speed.  Either seems to work fine on the urQ, but I have reverted to
habit and engage before blipping.

By the way, I found the pedals on my '83 urQ a bit too far apart to heel
and toe comfortably.  I have to lift my foot off the matt and really twist
to do it reliably.  I can't be the only one with small feet.  Has anyone
else found this?  I figure I can bend the throttle linkage (ugh!) or add an
accessory pedal to widen the throttle.  Comments?

Regards,

Richard Funnell,
San Jose, California
'83 urQ