I think the confusion is that some are talking about downshifting and some are speaking of engine breaking.

Downshifting has the objective of getting into the correct gear while matching engine speed for smoothness, then you accelerate. Engine breaking is like downshifting but uses the engine to create *significant* drag instead of acceleration.

Track or street downshifting is a good thing, engine breaking is a bad thing (except long downhills).

Try engine breaking on a motorcycle, then you decide if it is a good way to slow down. Actually don't, because you may end up on the pavement.

In a Lando Calrissian voice Allright, allright, allright!"

Guys, I do rev the car over 4,500 rpm. There have been instances where I've hit the limiter (and STILL feel guilty). In normal city driving, there isn't much call for it as we're Policed so heavily. But, my general point, is that I don't whoop the a$$ out of it all the time. It's generally very well treated.

I do love to match revs and gear speed and execute a neat downshift. The only reason I started this thread is because I met a guy who had recently been through the same 915 rebuild as me. He was pontificating about the virtues of protecting your fresh 915.

In fact, I was a little surprised to hear his pompous attitude toward the whole issue. He was even suggesting that you coast down to the lights without downshifting.

I think he should be driving an auto 928. NO FLAME INTENDED. http://www.pelicanparts.com/ultimate/biggrin.gif I used to have a 5-speed 928 and my parents still own an auto one, so I know what they're like and the what the drivers who like the auto ones are like too! LOL

AC

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Adam Chaplin - 1976 911S Coupe

Pillow,

I'd love to, but it's pissing rain and will be for the whole weekend. http://www.pelicanparts.com/ultimate/frown.gif Quite heavy rainfall where I am at the moment. I prefer to leave her at home... safe and sound.

I've already been ploughed up the back by a wayward Lexus in the rain. It's amazing how people don't think. Wipers go on, brain goes off...

AC

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Adam Chaplin - 1976 911S Coupe

I've never thought engine braking is really the thing to do. Expect going down big hills maybe, although this is a very rare occasion and given the quality of modern brakes its a rare thing.

However I have done nasty things to a diesel company car I had. http://www.pelicanparts.com/ultimate/wink.gif
Changing down from 4th to 2nd and letting the engine absorb the energy was actually a very quick way of getting the revs up and the engine into its limited power band. It reved soooo slowly this was the only option. No really it was http://www.pelicanparts.com/ultimate/wink.gif

After a year of so of significant abuse it went in for a service, and it also needed a new clutch. The dealer called up and my boss and said "mmm...I think we need to replace the flywheel too".
So my boss went to take a look. The flywheel was warped apparently.
"How did this happen?!" my Boss says.
"Well it must have been driven hard"
"How hard?"
"Absolutley f**king thrased".

He was not amused.

Needless to say engine braking wasnt the only thing the car was subjected to.

Alex.

AC writ:
"He was even suggesting that you coast down to the lights without downshifting."

I agree totally. Drop from 5 to neutral and coast in. Each time you shift you are wearing the clutch cable, clutch disc, throw-out bearing, and of course putting more stress on the engine. Coasting in is the best way to do it.

And absolutely never sit at a light with the clutch in... Unless you like replacing throw-out bearings? Also this will wear the pressure plate since it is under compression and not extended. I have a feeling my PO did this and now my pressure plate will not hold on agressive take offs, sure smell a lot of clutch disc burning though http://www.pelicanparts.com/ultimate/frown.gif Needless to say drag racing is something I do not do since I can only launch from about 3500 RPM.

Jeff writ:
"If I was going off an offramp and needed to slow down I'd shift into neutral, slow a bit down with the brakes, hit the turn at a moderate speed, and once I get out I shift into whatever gear is suitable for the speed that I'm going. "

You are killing me man!!! POWER through the turns. Find the gear you need for the turn before entering and power though. Once you get the hang of it you can fell the car "squat" down when powering through a turn which increases traction and cornerability. With the car in neutral you are just drifting and probably experience moderate to heavy body roll which is not good for road grip. I guarantee with powering through a turn you will get exit speeds coming out of 10-15 MPH faster... If not more.

AC I feel your pain bro, it has been raining here all week! Hopefully we will see a little sunshine this weekend.




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Adrian Pillow
1979 911 SC
1966 VW Microbus
PCA - Peachstate Region