Driver-train problem

TALK WRENCH/ Use your clutch smoothly for better fuel efficiency

I have an Indigo GLX. I consider myself a good driver, even though I am mostly chauffeur-driven in Mumbai. I find my driver releases the clutch pedal suddenly. Also many times, under heavy traffic, he does not manage the clutch and accelerator smoothly. I get very poor mileage "� 8.5 kpl only. Both these habits of my driver make for a jerky ride. Can you please tell me whether such jerks, especially those made by sudden release of the clutch pedal, will harm the car?

V Venkataramanan, Mumbai

Fuel economy will suffer and the clutch plates will wear out fast if your driver dumps the clutch, as will the other extreme "� slipping the clutch slowly with a generous dose of accelerator. In heavy traffic, it is better to employ first or second gear, release the clutch completely without using the accelerator and then just let the car move on, with the engine idling. This improves fuel economy without wearing out the clutch system . To slow down, just dab the brake; there is no need to engage the clutch "� the engine will not shut down so quickly. This is the level of expertise that is expected from an experienced chauffeur.

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