$5000 budget Mustang

[rustomatic]

When in doubt, ask an old-school trucker. Granted, the average 10-speed Road Ranger has the gears a bit closer than a four or five-speed car box, but if you like your left knee, you do not use the clutch to shift a truck. Down or up, there's no point in using a clutch, unless you're taking off (it's the clutch brake that helps the thing get into first at a stop); trying to use it like a car clutch actually does not work, as it will not help you find a gear. The main point is this: Move the engine at the same speed as the trans, and the gears will mesh together; I've done this smoothly in all kinds of vehicles, from a VW bug to a 350Z, and of course Macks, Peterbilts, KWs, and Freightliners. For some, this skill takes years to get right, and it can be quite interesting to learn in traffic, or on hills under a load... Then, you can learn the skill with an engine brake on...

Here's the starter: Load the shifter before you let off the gas, and it will pop right out. To avoid grinding when going in, use all points in the gate when going slowly--feel neutral; blip the throttle to adjust RPMs if/when they drop. Lots of fun grinding will ensue while learning, but you'll surely impress the ladies. Speed will come when/if you figure out what you're doing.