[Ctown]

Hi guys / Gals

I'm just wondering how u guys drive ur manual pt. I'm a newbie to manual tranny and is having problem utilizing the engine power[8)] (like it has 510HP)(but still 150 is enough for rookie like me)

I drive in 50% stop and go and 50% highway....it's that way in NYCity

1st gear seems to be real short and weak(atleast up to 2000rpm). the(instant)1st second I release the clutch and hit the gas I have to shift to 2nd gear or the car would just get louder and if I don't keep the gas press it would jerk. If I put full pedal in 1st the engine would scream like crazy up to around 5500rpm. (Q: is there a way to accel faster for stop and go?) Any 100HP can make me look like I have only 50HP and I always try my best to take off.(I stalled twice in the middle of time square because taxis thank I'm too slow horn at me, I got nervous and my hand feet coordination get screwed! how embarassing)

I got so sick of 1st gear I take off with 2nd but that just make me take off even slower and stall more often. also 2nd gear seems short too(maybe I'm used to an auto) When doing 15mph in traffic going up and down hill I have to constantly go up to 3rd or 4th.

I have no beef with 3rd and 4th gear. once I get the car moving i can put it in 3rd if I'm in city slow traffic or put it in 4th on highway. NOW the problem is what is 5th gear for?(I have a 2001) I keep it in 4th on highway all the time without problem and 5th gear only help drop 500rpm.(save gas maybe)

Passing on highway? how do you do that while you're doing 65mph in 5th. If I can change lane and give it gas in 5th I'm a deadmeat. BUT if I downshift to 4th and change lane and hit the gas I'll be deadmeat still cause the car still won't accel fast enough? should I drop it in 3rd from 5th?

Yes I'm a Manual newbie and need more practice and hope u guys and gals can help.....btw my left leg got bigger and my back is hurting


[8)]