What is the difference between speed shifting and power shifting?

blkthndr

former sccoa webmaster
These are two types of shifting that can only be used with manual
transmissions. Speed shifting is the less aggressive form. You simply shift as
fast as you can while still fully depressing the clutch and letting off the gas in
between shifts. This is hard enough on the transmission and is usually only
used when racing.

Power shifting is very hard on the transmission, but is used only when racing
and when you want to extract every bit of performance from your car. You
shift as fast as you can while only depressing the clutch far enough to get it to
disengage somewhat. It may not be fully disengaged, but just enough to get to
the next gear. Additionally, you keep your right foot planted on the gas pedal.
When using this method you much shift very quickly, as your rpms will climb
about 500 in between shifts. Over time you will definitely break your
transmission by doing this, but if you want to go faster on occasions this will do
it. You can notice as much as a .3 second improvement on your ¼ mile times
with this method.
 
Back
Top