In a manual car, you can only change gear with the help of the clutch. This component enables power shifting to the gearbox so that you can shift gears smoothly. However, some of your actions can damage the clutch faster than you think. If that happens, you will need to replace the entire component which can be costly. So, to avoid this damage, you need to learn about what you should not do while you are driving your car on the Gold Coast.
1. Shifting Gears Incorrectly
Many people, especially beginners, start moving before fully releasing the clutch or releasing the clutch pedal before putting the car in a specific gear. Doing both or any of these can damage your clutch. The disc grabs and the damper springs can get compressed and the clutch can become harder to engage since they are already worn out. In this situation, you will need to call a professional car mechanic in Gold Coast who can replace the existing clutch with a new one.
2. Resting Your Foot on the Clutch While Driving
Keeping your foot on the clutch is a very bad idea since even mild pressure can lead to the detachment of the flywheel and the friction disc. So, if your car has a footrest area, you should place your foot there. Doing so will keep you from accidentally pressing the clutch pedal. However, if you experience unresponsiveness from the clutch, you need to get it fixed or replaced by calling a mechanic.
3. Avoiding Rev Matching While Downshifting
While downshifting, an unequal decrease or increase in the engine speed occurs, especially if there is no smooth rev match. Furthermore, downshifting can cause clutch shock which results in the wearing of the clutch disc. In this scenario, you will need to hire a mechanic in Gold Coast who can replace the clutches and guide you with how you can match the revs while downshifting.
Generally, re-matching is done by slightly opening the throttle and bringing the engine speed to the lower gear before setting the clutch.
4. Sustained Use of The Clutch
You will need to use the clutch to change gears, there is no other way. However, sustained use of the same is a type of overpressing. It can result in clutch slippage and early wear. Also, while on an incline, you should use your brakes to keep the car stationary and press the clutch only when necessary.
5. Contamination of the Clutch
Clutch contamination can occur if the disc comes in contact with oil or any other type of fluid. If this happens, rest assured that the lifespan of your clutch will shorten.
Any type of oil can impact the clutch. It can be grease or hydraulic fluid used to operate the clutch cylinders. Anyway, if your clutch is impacted, you will need to hire a Gold Coast car mechanic and get it fixed.
Call Now for Assistance
Require assistance with your car? Contact Mark Jackson Automotive today. We are always ready to fix your vehicle with precision and at the best cost.
