Car Engine Braking is 4th to 3rd Automatic Transmission
What is Engine Braking?
Engine braking is a technique used to slow down a vehicle by using the engine’s compression to create resistance against the wheels. This is accomplished by downshifting to a lower gear, which causes the engine to run at a higher RPM and create more compression. The increased compression then helps to slow down the vehicle.
Engine braking is most effective in lower gears, as the higher the gear, the less compression the engine will create. This is because the higher the gear, the more the engine is able to “freewheel” and not create any compression.
How to Engine Brake
To engine brake, simply downshift to a lower gear. The lower the gear, the more engine braking you will create. However, it is important to not downshift too low, as this can cause the engine to over-rev and damage itself.
It is also important to be aware of the road conditions when engine braking. If the road is wet or icy, engine braking can cause the wheels to lock up and skid. Therefore, it is best to avoid engine braking in these conditions.
Benefits of Engine Braking
There are several benefits to engine braking, including:
- Reduced wear and tear on brakes: Engine braking can help to reduce wear and tear on the brakes, as it uses the engine to slow down the vehicle instead of the brakes.
- Improved fuel economy: Engine braking can help to improve fuel economy, as it allows the engine to run at a lower RPM, which uses less fuel.
- Increased stability: Engine braking can help to increase stability, as it helps to keep the vehicle from skidding.
Downsides of Engine Braking
There are also some downsides to engine braking, including:
- Increased noise: Engine braking can cause the engine to run at a higher RPM, which can create more noise.
- Potential for damage: If the engine is over-revved, it can cause damage to the engine.
- Not effective on all vehicles: Engine braking is not effective on all vehicles, such as vehicles with automatic transmissions.
Conclusion
Engine braking is a useful technique that can be used to slow down a vehicle. However, it is important to be aware of the benefits and downsides of engine braking before using it. If used correctly, engine braking can help to reduce wear and tear on the brakes, improve fuel economy, and increase stability.