Do I need to use the clutch to shift back to Neutral if I want max trans longevity? I know I should get into the habit of using the clutch whenever moving the shifter, but I would like to satisfy my curiosity before breaking something.

 

Yes, you should.

 

its not a must. About the same time you let off the gas you can slide it into n no problem. if you get the timing right you should be able to upshift with out the clutch also.

 

Possible, but you always have to get it right. Shortened syncro life will result or worse if not perfect all the time. Why take the risk?

I had to shift clutchless in my BOSS 302 one time to get home. Clutch linkage broke at the Lancaster drive in and I was living in Van Nuys and wanted to get back after my date. Freeway was no problem, but I had to time the traffic signals on the side streets just right to avoid having to come to a stop.

 

Shifting from any gear to neutral is no problem as long as the drive line is not loaded. This is easier in higher gears (3-5). There is no additonal wear on any component that is not present when the clutch is used. Shifting from neutral to a gear without the clutch is a poor idea for several reasons inclusing gear and synchro wear.

 

What he said. Believe me, you don't want to have to fight with Ford for a new trans or swear on a bible that you drove the car correctly. The clutch was put into the car for a reason.

 

What happens if the clutch is worn out with regular/normal driving?
Ford won't void the warranty for an aftermarket non-certified engine calibration and an aftermarket supercharger (9 psi roots on stock engine) that blew out a stock 4R70W, but they will skimp out on the brake fluid reservoir cap gasket, the grommet above the smart junction box, and use Chinese speakers for their Shaker 500 / 1000 audio systems.

 

Happened to me in a 1970 vette. The pivot point broke off the block. had to go through re lights and would just shut off the engine and start in first gear to get it going again. we used to shift w/o the clutch back in the 60's in older cars that were more forgiving.

 

I had to do the same in my 89, throwout bearing went kaput one night on my way back to college. Still had 90 miles to go at 10:30pm. I had to learn quick how to match rpm's and shift clutchless. Wasn't too bad on the interstate, but stoplights were interesting. I had to shut off the engine in neutral, then shift to 1st with the engine off. When the light turned green, push in the clutch to disengage the kill switch and crank away with the car lurching forward until the engine caught, then away we went! Fun times!!

 

Go ahead, knock yourself out and try it once. It fights you on the way out and really isn't anything special in any way. I wouldn't do it too much and especially try to shift into another gear without using the clutch.