How to Shift a Manual Transmission With and Without the Clutch

Hello, today I’m going to show you how to shift a manual transmission. I will be using a 05 Dodge Dakota with a 6-speed manual transmission. I will cover the difference between an automatic and manual transmission and how to shift with and without the clutch. You may already know how to shift a manual with a clutch but shifting without the clutch can be better for your vehicle if done correctly. Not using the clutch can reduce wear on your clutch and will extend its life. 

All you will need for supplies is a vehicle with a manual transmission.

There are a few differences between a manual and automatic transmission. The manual has a gear shifter coming out of the top of the transmission into the cab and it also has an extra petal on the floor. This transmission must be shifted manually with the use of the gear shifter. The automatic doesn’t have the gear shifter or extra petal. This transmission is shifted automatically and will do all the shifting for you. 

To start the vehicle the clutch (left petal next to brake) must be pressed in and gear shifter in the neutral position. Rotate key to start vehicle. Once running the clutch can be released and the vehicle will not move. Now choose desired gear to start in, I recommend first gear for beginners. Press clutch in, shift to desired gear. Slowly release clutch while pressing the gas slightly. This should get you moving. If engine stalls and dies return to step one and repeat process. Once moving, watch RPM gauge until engine reaches 2500-3000 RPM. Once reached press clutch shift to next gear and release clutch. Repeat until you have reached your desired speed or highest gear. 

Shifting without the clutch is more difficult than shifting with the clutch. The gears in the transmission must be timed so that they will slide together without clutch. I would not recommend this method unless you are experienced with driving a manual transmission or the clutch goes out and have no choice. Some older vehicles can be started with the shifter in gear. This will cause the vehicle to move as soon as the engine turns over. Once the engine fires, the gas petal must be pressed to keep the engine from dying. Newer vehicle the clutch must be pressed in to start the vehicle. Once moving with either starting method, allow engine to reach 3000 RPMs. After reaching 3000 RPMs, pull gear shifter out of gear this may take a little force but should not be difficult; Gently pull gear shifter into next gear slot, do not force into gear. The engine will fall 500-1000 RPMs and gear shifter should easily fall into next gear. Repeat until desired speed or highest gear is reached.