Paul Messam, Gleaner Writer

The interior of a manual-drive car.

THE FUNDAMENTALS of control, like the table of elements in chemistry, are the essence of driving, says Norris Christian, an accredited driving instructor, as he spoke with Automotives about various elements of driving a vehicle with manual transmission.

In controlling a car, we do not refer to the ability to parallel park or make a left-hand turn at an intersection. These elements of driving are important, but they must be subordinated to such essentials as steering, braking, gear changing and cornering.

Driving a motor vehicle with a manual transmission requires coordination with clutch, accelerator, and the gear shift lever. The clutch pedal must always be pressed down to the floor before starting the engine, before shifting and before coming to a stop.

Depressing the clutch disconnects the engine from the wheels and takes the car out of gear. At other times, when driving, it is wise to keep your foot off the clutch pedal. The habit of riding the clutch, driving with the left foot resting lightly on the clutch pedal, causes needless clutch wear, Christian cautioned.

Mechanical components

He explained the mechanical components of manual-drive vehicles.

Some stickshift cars have a three-speed or a four-speed shift pattern. Others have five-speed pattern. The three-speed pattern usually has the lever mounted on the steering column.

The four-speed shift pattern usually has the gear shift lever on the floor. The fourth gear is intended for use at higher speeds and on the velvet highways. Since the fourth takes less power to keep the car moving, it uses less fuel.

The instructor pointed out that shifting should be done smoothly form one position to the next and always with the clutch depressed to the floor.

He, however, advised motorists that the speed given for shifting are only intended to be guidelines.

Check the owners manual for your car because transmissions vary greatly, he added.