How can I avoid jerking a car when I downshift?

Question

Like let's say someone pulls along side and wants to "play" but I gotta downshift or I'll be slow.

Answer 1

dont pop the clutch out, release it slowly.

Answer 2

Heel and Toe. Or instead of popping the clutch, move your right foot and blip the trottle some to rev match for the next lower gear for a better take off. It takes practice and remembering to get the revs right. Too little, you jerk. Too much and you end up heating your clutch while waiting for the revs to drop. Good luck. Though I don't encourage racing on the street. Been there, done that, too many possibilities for disaster.

Answer 3

Keep a little pressure on the gas, while slowly easing off the clutch. It takes practice, but you'll get it. It's almost the same as starting off in first, except not so much gas.

What's happening is, you're coming off of the clutch too quick, which in turn is causing the car to slow down quick. That's why you want a little pressure on the gas.

Answer 4

If you downshift you are actually using the friction of the clutch with the engine as a brake so its virtually impossible not feel a braking motion. Try coasting in neutral.

Answer 5

double clutch and rev up before downshifting...ask a truck driver to show you how...

Answer 6

Practice!!!!!! Make it one smooth easy sequence of motions. Practice while the car is not started just do it over and over till you can master it. You shouldn't be racing or playing as you call it!!! Be careful........

Answer 7

Slip into neutral first.

Answer 8

practice