My (turn) GXP review - Page 2

brentil · 12-15-2006, 02:04 PM

Now if one improperly unloads the clutch while improperly shifting you can cause a drive line lash to occur that is very clunk like, but is not The clunk.

JimGz · 12-15-2006, 05:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brentil

Now if one improperly unloads the clutch while improperly shifting you can cause a drive line lash to occur that is very clunk like, but is not The clunk.

Now I did hear that once with a low speed sloppy shift... the back-lash sound.

JUSTICE · 12-15-2006, 06:06 PM

I find that I can reduce the severity of the clunk by staying on the clutch longer in gear transitions, but I really don't like being on the clutch that much. Didn't mean for that to rhyme. Like I was saying, in my old escort I just lifted the gas, tapped the clutch in a couple inches, shift, and let right off the clutch, back on gas and it was always very smooth, effortless, and took just a second.
On the GXP I feel like I'm getting a leg workout at the gym, and instead of my shifts being quick in and out transitions, I find I have my foot on the clutch way more than I'd like. If I try and drive it like the escort, I'd get major clunk and it would not be smooth. I just feel like I have to push the clutch in more and let it out more slowly over time to get a smoother shift and not so much clunk. Also, on the escort, I could practically tap the shifter from 1st to 2nd or 3rd to 4th and with the GXP I'm actually pushing or pulling. Not sure if this is just because it's brand new because the escort was already broken in by the time I drove it and this is the first new car with a manual that I've driven.
Perhaps part of it has to do with my seat position. I think I'd rather be taller over the shifter so I feel more on top of it. I recall someone who is like 5'9" saying they felt more comfortable shifting using the seat height adjuster, and I'm only 5'4", but don't have the adjuster.
I think I'll drive it through the break in period and see what happens. If the clunk continues I'll take it to the dealership. Why should I have to have the clunk when others don't.