How to: Operate an Automobile of the 20th or early 21st Century via a Manually-shifted Transmission

DRIVE STICK

By: Adam Totter

Congratulations, you’ve made the plunge, and embarked on a most rewarding journey. Despite the now inferior technology within manual transmissions, learning to drive stick is a fun way to experience an automobile, and is essential for any true car guy or gal.

As newer transmission technologies have improved, the need for the third pedal has plummeted. “Why drive a stick?” your friends may ask, and frankly, most of them won’t understand your answer. We know however, that cars have souls, and that the transmission plays a big part in deciding what kind of soul it has.

In order to drive a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission, you must first have access to a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission. The vehicle must also be in working order. That’s pretty much all you need. It’s not required to dress up like a heroic driver, but it does help set the mood. Actually, you might want a good set of confortable shoes, ones that aren’t loose, or have too much heel. Oh, and forget flip-flops. You’re better off driving barefoot.

A. Check your vitals; Tire pressure, fuel level, oil level, and engine temperature are some of the most important. Checking the oil is an instruction set on its own, so I’ll omit that explanation, but the other info can be accessed via gauges on the dash. They start working when the ignition key is turned to the first position. The safety information for each vehicle should be located in it’s operating manual, usually located in the front passenger side glove box.

A. First, put the key into the ignition.

B. Put your right foot on the brake, and push the clutch pedal (first pedal from the

left) all the way in.

C. Next, twist the key clockwise, past the first position, to fire up the motor. If your

ride isn’t broken, she should turn over and start up right away.