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When is it acceptable to keep foot on clutch?

  • 28-05-2014 2:47pm
    #1
    AH92
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 510 ✭✭✭


    Hey guys got my test in a week and a half and currently struggling to figure this out.
    So I know to use the clutch whenever changing gears but will I be marked down for slowly releasing it after or would I have to release it as soon as the gear is changed?
    What other times is it possible to have your foot pushed down slightly on the clutch? I was told whenever slowing down and is it ok to have it slightly pushed on the clutch for instance before turning into a junction on second gear? Sorry if it sounds confusing but really starting to panic over this!


Comments

  • #2
    Del2005
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 19,100 ✭✭✭✭Del2005


    AH92 wrote: »
    Hey guys got my test in a week and a half and currently struggling to figure this out.
    So I know to use the clutch whenever changing gears but will I be marked down for slowly releasing it after or would I have to release it as soon as the gear is changed?
    What other times is it possible to have your foot pushed down slightly on the clutch? I was told whenever slowing down and is it ok to have it slightly pushed on the clutch for instance before turning into a junction on second gear? Sorry if it sounds confusing but really starting to panic over this!

    I think you booked your test too early if you don't know clutch control yet. Getting a few lessons with an ADI will serve you better than trying to learn it off the net.


  • #3
    skeg16
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 314 ✭✭skeg16


    The only time you should have your foot anywhere near the clutch is when changing gears. I'm no expert but I would presume clutching around corners is an automatic fail.

    Also it can be damaging to the car if your foot is constantly on the pedal.


  • #4
    solomafioso
    Closed Accounts Posts: 1,095 ✭✭✭solomafioso


    By now you would have a fair idea of when to depress the clutch. When slowing down, apply the brake and then press down on the clutch when coming to a smooth stop (i.e. not abrupt).

    Go in to neutral if necessary (if a few cars back at a red), or keep it in first if you're the first car at the lights. (Or is that the wrong way? My understanding is that you had to be ready to go...When I had my test a few years ago the guy made a reference that I should be pulling out a lot faster than I was...I think I was being too cautious!).

    Changing gears should be a smooth press, change, depress. And that's it. Personally I'd advise thinking more about the accelerator and brake.

    Don't worry, it's all muscle memory at this stage and you're the best indicator of reacting to the vehicle.

    Drive safe and best of luck!


  • #5
    TimeToShine
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,881 ✭✭✭TimeToShine


    You will be done for coasting my friend.

    I never had this problem because I learned straight from an ADI but a close friend of mine did - excellent driver, driving since he was about 15, but he learned from his father. He was basically taught to clutch whenever you're in trouble - cue this guy who has been driving every day for the past 7 years failing his test on clutch control the first time (4 grade 2's) while far less competent and confident drivers pass. He got a few lessons with the ADI and had the clutch habit shouted out of him and nailed it the next time.

    You need to get lessons with an ADI, it's these kind of habits that you need to crush before the test. You could be the best driver in the world in terms of awareness and car control but you'll be failed if you don't follow protocol.

    You should only clutch to change gear, and right before you come to a halt.


  • #6
    I can't tell you why
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 239 ✭✭I can't tell you why


    AH92 wrote: »
    So I know to use the clutch whenever changing gears but will I be marked down for slowly releasing it after or would I have to release it as soon as the gear is changed?

    As soon as you have finished moving the gear stick, come smoothly off the clutch.

    What other times is it possible to have your foot pushed down slightly on the clutch?

    Slightly, when creeping forward at a blind junction and during manouvers such as the turnabout and reverse.

    I was told whenever slowing down and is it ok to have it slightly pushed on the clutch for instance before turning into a junction on second gear?

    Not when slowing, but as you are about to stop. Definitely not turning in second.


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  • #7
    I can't tell you why
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 239 ✭✭I can't tell you why


    Del2005 wrote: »
    I think you booked your test too early if you don't know clutch control yet. Getting a few lessons with an ADI will serve you better than trying to learn it off the net.

    Getting lessons is a very valid point. But most people don't know how to use the clutch properly.


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