hello all. I know this question may seem very elementary, but bear in mind im only 17....

what is the basic strategy to shifting gear s for speed? i've only driven automatics(mostly my bros impalaSS), but i know how to drive a manual if i have to. what i would like to know is the fundamental goal when shifting for performance like at a drag strip for all cars especially lt1s(if theres any different strategy)

thanks all

 

Hmm well as you can tell mines an auto.. but from what I understand.. you want to keep your revs near your cars max power output... so say your car delivers its max power say at 5800 RPS.. you would want to shift close to that and try not to let it fall to far below that.. but I could be wrong.... That's why I like autos for the strip.. no thinking invloved!

 

hmm, doesnt sound too complicated, i guess mastering it is tough stuff. and of course, the next question would then be: whats the max power output rpm on an lt1 camaro?

 

Max power is around 5000-5200 on a stock LT1... If your still mostly stock I would just stick to shifting at redline...

Best way to shift while not abusing your tranny is to just apply "slight" pressure to the shifter towards your next gear while your accelerating then when you need to shift just stab the clutch and slightly let off the throttle while you pull/push through to the next gear...

 

Oh and just to get it out of the way I'm sure you'll ask how the hell to launch a manual later so I'll tell you how now

Best way I found for me to launch on regular street tires was to dump the clutch (Don't side-step it, just lift as fast as you can) at around 2000-2400 and apply just enough throttle to keep the rpms there as the tires are spinning and as soon as they grip punch it... everyone has different launching techniques but that should give you a good start