Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Shifting Without Using the Clutch

[Rebel_Horseman]

Now that I have my truck I have to ask the question. My buddy, who is a diesel mechanic, says that shifting without using the clutch won't harm the transmission gears or synchros (sp?). I'm still not too sure. Secondly, when shifting in this manner, would the turbo lag created from shifting with the clutch as normal be eliminated or reduced?



Reb [><]

 

[tmckenzie]

If you shift without the clutch and hear GRINDING thats probably not good for the transmission. On the other hand I can't answer your question straight up but I can tell you after a year or so owning my truck I started shifting clutchless and several months later had to replace my synchronzers The truck is a 98 and had 75K on it at the time so I dont know if shifting clutchless sped up the synchros goin out or if it was just time for them to go. Turbo lag is probably worse shifting without the clutch unless your speed shifting the hell out of it, cause in order to match ground speed you take more time shifting clutchless than when using the clutch, allowing the boost to plummet to 0.

 

[lmills]

I have always been told that the gears in our truck transmission's are not cut the same as the gears in a big rig. The big rig gears can be shifted without the aid of a clutch, but in our trucks you should still use the clutch. I am not saying it isn't possible, just that it may cause increased were on the transmission. I am sure someone will come along and be able to explain it better.

 

[illflem]

It's your $$$

Sure it can be done but even when done carefully will wear the synchros. Also the input shaft will eventually get a groove worn in it and the clutch discs will bind on the input shaft when using the clutch to start and back up.

These little trannies aren't made the same as the ones in a big rig, use the clutch.

 

[sootgrinder]

I used to own a Chevy, before the great enlightenment. I would rarely use the clutch to shift. That was an expensive learning experience! The top shaft has a bushing which goes out and causes a few problems with gear selection. When we opened the transmission, the syncros were about shot too. I am glad I learned when in a Chevy, that way I spared my CTD from any unnecessary pain.