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Originally Posted by MNBoxster
Hi,
I agree that today, you don't need to do it, but it's still a good skill to master. Anything which makes you a better driver is worthwhile IMHO.
While the synchros will do the job, I feel it's especially important learning how to match revs for downshifting, this will really preserve both the Box and the Clutch, the Clutch in particular.
And, you never know, you may aspire to Auto-X (rev matching keeps the engine in the sweet spot, an aid toward improving your ETs) or Race someday, and not all race cars have a synchro transmission. My old Formula Ford didn't - straight cut Dog gears. You either double-clutched, or spent your time fodding the Track picking up pieces of your broken tranny...
Happy Motoring!... Jim'99
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Well, rev matching and double-clutching are two completely different techniques. Rev-matching is, as you say, crucial to smooth and fast driving. But rev matching isn't about keeping the engine in the "sweet spot." Rev matching is only done to reduce the load on the clutch when shifting to a lower gear - think using your clutch to engage 2nd gear at highway speeds with the engine at idle. Would you rather use the clutch friction to increase the engine speed or use the throttle? I think you'd rather use the throttle, and that's rev-matching.
Double-clutching, in a synchro box, will just slow down your shifts and is a waste of time and energy.
I do know a thing or two about autocross as I do about 20 events a year including multiple National Tours / ProSolos and the Solo Nationals. I've only downshifted once in the past three years!