RE: Downshifting for Normal Driving

["Mike Miller" <JoMi@msn.com>]

I was told long ago that brakes (even UFOs) are much cheaper than clutches and 
transmissions. Compression braking is hard on the whole driveline. For normal 
everyday, non-spirited (why do I drive an Audi?), I usually put the trans into 
neutral as I approach a stop sign or signal and keep the clutch in. I usually 
get over 150K to a clutch and have never had to rebuild a manual tranny do to 
wearing out components even above 200k.

mike miller
91 200q

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From: 	owner-quattro@coimbra.ans.net on behalf of George S Achorn III
Sent: 	Thursday, February 06, 1997 11:04 AM
To: 	CCA; Audi
Subject: 	Downshifting for Normal Driving

	I was reading a tech question in the back of the new Road & Track (Boxster
vs. SLK vs. Z3 2.8 Cover) and noticed a letter on downshifting. The
question was basically about the use of downshifting as braking into
corners etc. R&T recomended not to use downshifting as a form of breaking.
They sighted that while racers do do it, they also frequently rebuild their
engines and transmissions. 
	I wondered what you all think. I know R&T is liable for their advice, so
they won't give out advice against a manufacturer's requests, but how true
is this. I downshift about 98% of the time as I roll up to a redlight or
stopsign. Alot of the time it is to be in the proper gear, but I usually
let the clutch out to help slow myself. I know this is still a good
practice in the rain or snow, but what of regular conditions?
	Later-G