I've read in a few other threads (most recently the "is PDK another name for automatic?" thread) where some of you guys talk about skills of driving a true manual.

I'm new to the 911, and while I've driven stick shifts before (the last manual shift car was a VR6 VW Corrado many a years ago), never in a car like this.

I'd like to ask you guys, what is the best way to drive the true manual? More specifically, are there any tips on how to preserve the life of the clutch? I've read some of you guys say you've kept the same clutch for 100k miles (???)... I bought my CPO C2 997.1 with a brand new clutch, and if I can help it, I'd like to prevent the $5000 clutch job as long as possible.

If you have any advice pertaining to other subjects in terms of driving habbits, I'd love to hear those, too.

 

A std 997 clutch is tough and lasts a long time if used properly. The clutch killer is slippage.

If you do not use your car as a dragster and do normal launches it will last a long time. I can launch a 997 smoothly under 1kRPM and accelerate from there. It's OK to do a takeoff slightly higher than 1kRPM but not much higher. Feathering the clutch driving slowly on parking lots is OK if not overdone. Never ride a clutch.

Upshifting must be done smoothly without throttle during the engagement and progressive throttle as the clutch takes. Downshifting should be done with rev matching ideally, but on the street heel-toe is overkill (and can be dangerous). I just brake and emphasize the clutch up/throttle down with a bit more energy.

In summary, for proper clutch use and long wear the keywords are smoothness and non-slippage.

 

++++1^ I always try to launch anywhere from 750-900 but rarely ever hit 1k or above unless i'm completely distracted. I've got 42k miles on the original clutch so far.

 

Meh. Just an excuse to take the tranny out and add a limited slip diff and light weight flywheel.

Another tip is to always shift to neutral and release the clutch at stop lights. Less stress on the throw out bearing.

 

Good advice. Be ready though to move fast as these days cars behind you are always ready to move and may rear-end you.

 

Thanks much for all the advice. And please, keep them coming, if you can think of anything else (even if it is not related to the clutch). I'm sure I'm not the only novice on this forum that appreciate this type of threads...

This forum has taught me so much, and it's the most amazing place to procrastinate from doing all the important things in life, like working to make a living and paying attention to your girlfriend. About the only thing I don't like about the forum is that it makes you want to go out and spend all your money on mods!

 

I still have the original clutch and I've got almost 37K miles on my C2.
(When my RMS was replaced about a year ago, my mechanic at McKenna said that the clutch was still in great shape.)
It was recommended to me by several mechanics that you should try not to down shift when coming to a stop.
They said just leave it in the gear that is it in and when you almost come to a stop, throw it in neutral.
When down shifting, it was recommended to always try to rev match.
Also, I always make sure my foot is off the clutch.
This information might be common knowledge, but it is something that I always try to practice.

 

i launch my car at 4500 rpm.. pop the clutch.. drop the hammer.. push thru the wheel hops.. redlining and power shifting 1 thru 3rd..

or u can do what they ^^^^ do...

oh.. did u say 'preserving the clutch' ??

 

Point taken...