alright just wondering...who here downshifts to slow down before stopping..and who just uses the break? just want to get a general concensus...and what do you guys think is better?

 

when im lazy i just use the brake

 

Well which do you think is cheaper to replace, your synchros in your tranny or brake pads .

 

I always downshift. I actually make it a point to slow all the way down without having to brake if I can...

 

ive totally heard this before that's why im asking..i mean i think it's personal preference..but i mean you really gotta suck at downshifting to screw up the syncros you know?

 

I always downshift because if make a habit of doing so, In a sticky situation I can stop the car with that much ease & control

 

i always downshift... and brake a little... you go through pads sooo fast just coasting in neutral and heavy braking or braking in gear...balance it out...downshift and brake ...and if done right you wont damage syncro's or tranny ...more clutch wear and tear

 

i agree. downshift. I can avoid using my brakes AT ALL sometimes. you just have to do it right. never had a problem in any car ive done it in. MY bug even has a 3 pucker in it. thats a stiff clutch.

 

Yeah, I do about 50% brake and 50%downshift... Sometimes more or less of either but avg is 50/50.

 

Once I replaced the stock clutch I started just breaking all the time. Brake pads and rotors much cheaper and easier to install.

 

Not if yer replacing them every 3 months.

I downshift.

 

Slowing down and stopping is the function of the brakes. One should never use engine braking (the use of downshifting or coasting in a low gear to slow the car). Downshifting is done during braking (heel and toe) on the track in order to prepare the car to accelerate from the exit of the corner as fast as possible - it is never done to slow the car.

Aside from wear on the synchros and gearbox, slowing the car via downshifting puts wear principally on the clutch and engine. It is hard on a motor to use engine braking (especially over 5k revs) - much harder than running a motor to 7k revs under full load.

If anyone doubts this, please read a good racing book like "Going Faster"

Cheers,
Grant

 

Thats racing. Most of us use our cars for everyday street driving.

 

The same rules apply to street driving when it's done properly. I noticed that we're almost neighbors - you should come out for a trackday at 2nd Creek before they close it forever

 

OT but it's too bad someone doesn't cough up enough money to save Second Creek. I've had a long of fun out there.