Bob described a problem as follows:
>I also shift into neutral and release the clutch at stop lights, but
I do >have a problem when I have to stop while going up a steep hill.
If there >are no cars behind me, I release the brake and go into first
gear as I >roll backwards. But most drivers usually sit right on my
tail. If they do, >I'm forced to hold the car with the footbrake as
well as having the clutch >pedal depressed and the gearbox in first
gear so I can move out without >rolling backwards and smacking the car
in the rear. As you know, a rear >ender would be much more devistating
than an occasional thrust bearing and >throwout bearing wear.
I’m confused - putting the car in first while it’s rolling backwards does not
sound like a very good idea. Why is the car rolling backwards? Doesn’t a hill
start normally include holding the car on the handbrake? In the UK, when the
dinosaurs still roamed (which was when I started driving…) the driving test
required a start on a hill with zero rollback. My instructor (my father) had
used the technique of placing a matchbox behind the rear wheels - if I crushed
it, I failed one of HIS tests, which were always much more demanding than those
required for a driving license.
For a temporary uphill stop the technique was always:
Stop:
- Select Neutral and hold car on footbrake
Start:
- Hold car on footbrake, select first gear.
- Hold car on handbrake and release footbrake.
- Release clutch while increasing revs and gradually release handbrake
(minimise clutch slip, by engaging it fully ASAP). Zero rollback.
Well, it’s worked for me for >35 years… Maybe Bob could give this a try.
John.