formed by the above process, which is often called "
double clutching". The alternative to double clutching is to
slip the clutch while accelerating the engine, but this is, for
most drivers, a more difficult operation at the higher car speeds.
Holding the clutch out during the intermediate acceleration is a
common fault in the beginner. As a guide to the amount of
intermediate acceleration that is necessary always look at the
speedometer before changing down. When climbing a steep hill on
which there is a bad corner, always change down early. When in
difficulties always put the lever in neutral and leave the clutch
in; then look at the speedometer before making any further move.
Under no circumstances is there any cause for haste: so long as
the car is in motion there is plenty of time in which to engage
any desired gear; even if the car comes to rest the brakes will
hold it quite securely on any gradient.
The change up differs radically from the change down inasmuch as intermediate deceleration instead of acceleration is required in order to adjust the speed of the gears to that of the car. Instead of using the accelerator when the gear lever is in neutral it is necessary to use the clutch-stop. This is applied by pressing the clutch pedal further forward than is required to disengage the clutch. As the clutch-stop mechanism is applied through the medium of a spring (see Page 6) the force exerted by it is determined by the extent to which the clutch is pressed forward. The more fully the clutch pedal is moved forward, the greater will be the deceleration of the gear shaft and the quicker can the gear lever be moved from one position to the other. Pressure upon the gear lever before moving the clutch pedal ensures the easy disengaging of the gear, and, if the engine speed is high, it may be necessary to pause with the gear lever in neutral while the clutch pedal is right forward so as to give time for the clutch-stop to take effect. At slow engine speeds the lever can be moved right through without a pause if the pedal is pressed well forward. When starting the car from rest, top gear may be used if the conditions are favourable. If a lower gear is necessary, the change should he made almost as soon as the car is in motion unless it is actually climbing a hill.
Safety in motoring lies primarily in having a clear view of where you want to go and keeping a clear space around you where you are. Some drivers always seem to find every other vehicle in their way while others can steer a clear course even in the