When to shift in the new 5.0???
For those that start in 2nd, does this wear out the clutch faster than starting in 1st? I have done this several times and it seems like I have to ride the clutch a bit to keep it from clunking. Also, what is the actual fuel savings from skipping gears, starting in 2nd? How much do you save compared to shifting through all 6 @ 2-2.5k? Just wondering if it is worth it from clutch life to fuel savings...
Not necessarily so. Depends how mature and conscientious one is. You can kill yourself in any car. Even a Toyota as we all know. Though I would recommend a performance driving school or take up auto crossing if one is serious about becoming a good driver. But of course this is a good idea for anyone with any car.
Agreed. We've covered most of the points and it's starting to get personal now.
Cheers.
For those that start in 2nd, does this wear out the clutch faster than starting in 1st? I have done this several times and it seems like I have to ride the clutch a bit to keep it from clunking. Also, what is the actual fuel savings from skipping gears, starting in 2nd? How much do you save compared to shifting through all 6 @ 2-2.5k? Just wondering if it is worth it from clutch life to fuel savings...

My old F150 is a 4spd - actually a 3 spd with a granny gear so you normally do start out in 2nd. Even though 1st is so short, if I'm on an incline I'll use it so I don't put any extra wear on the clutch. I got 218k out of that clutch and when I put a new motor in and replaced the clutch, it mic'd almost the same thickness of the new plate.
I have said this many times, the only time I think about gas is when Im filling up and when that light comes on to remind you that you are running low...
Best advice in my opinion. I tend to shift around 2k because the 3.73's make each gear so quick that shifting at 1700 would be tedious. Once you are actually driving though, I find 1k rpm to be a good thing to aim for. Too much lower and you could lug the motor, too much higher and you are wasting gas. I go to 6th above 30 mph.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Gigantor
2005-2009 Mustang
31
May 11, 2023 07:31 PM






