Shifting Down vs. Braking

[docdyh]

I prefer to downshift..always within proper rpm range..my box has only 24K miles but my other car has 125,000 miles..never replaced the original clutch or transmission...yes, I know its cheaper to replace brakes, but just my personal preference.....

[BuffaloBoxster]

I am a long-time heel-and-toe driver, and I've had the clutch go for well over 100k on my Integra. And I drove that car like it was on a race track. I'm at about 55k on the Boxster, and I've heard of clutches going at lower mileage than that so ymmv...

I sometimes run down the gears - you would on the track - but usually it's just one change down, matching revs. You should not let the engine be the sole source of braking force as this does stress the engine .