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Manual transaxle
(if so
equipped)
The shift pattern below is shown on the gear-
shift lever. Press the clutch pedal all the way
down while shifting gears.
NOTE
During cold weather, shifting may be diffi-
cult until the transaxle lubricant has warmed
up. This is normal and not harmful to the
transaxle.
To start
Press the clutch pedal all the way down and
shift into 1st. Then gradually release the
clutch pedal while depressing the accelerator
pedal.
CAUTION
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Do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal
because this will cause premature clutch
wear or damage.
Do not coast in the "N" (Neutral) position
(illegal in many states).
Do not use the gearshift lever as a handrest,
because this can result in premature wear of
the transaxle shift forks.
NOTE
If it is hard to shift into 1st, depress the
clutch pedal a second time; the shift will then
be easier.
Proper shift points
Always use care to change the gear with the
vehicle speed matched to the engine speed.
Proper shifting will improve fuel economy
and prolong engine life.
CAUTION
Avoid downshifting that may cause the
tachometer pointer to enter the red zone.
This puts the engine at risk of being dam-
aged.
Manual transaxle (if so equipped)
Upshifting
For the best fuel economy and performance in
using your manual transaxle, upshift as listed
below.
Shift point
1st gear to 2nd gear
2nd gear to 3rd gear
3rd gear to 4th gear
4th gear to 5th gear
Downshifting
It is recommended that you downshift to a
lower gear when needed to maintain the
desired speed, according to the table.
Avoid downshifting at too high a speed. The
engine may suffer damage.
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To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake
life, shift down to 2nd or 1st when descend-
ing a steep hill.
Downshifting is also important to avoid "lug-
ging" the engine at too low a speed, such as
when turning a corner or when driving up a
steep hill.
Features and controls
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Upshift speeds
5
15 mph (24 km/h)
25 mph (40 km/h)
40 mph (64 km/h)
45 mph (72 km/h)
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5-57
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