shifting on a 3 speed manual

[bidoof 10]

Hey guys I have a 250 cu 3 speed manual and Im wondering at what speeds should I be shifting for smooth driving. So far Ive been shifting to second around 5mph and to third anywhere from 15-20 mph. Its rather difficult to get a quick smooth takeoff. Any advice is appreciated.

[ramair351 10]

if you are shifting into 2nd at 5mph, you must have a pretty steep rear end gear. i would think second gear is about 20 mph and 3rd about 35-40

[harlan69mach 21]

I tend to agree with Pete. I have a 351-2V with 3 speed anr 3.0-1 rearend, I probably shift to 2nd in the 15-20 mph range and 3rd in the 35-40. At idle in 3rd is almost 30mph.

[Ash 145]

I have a 66 with a 200ci 3 speed top loader and I agree, rev it longer and pick up more speed. 1st gear is quite long. I drive mine until I can feel the power curve starting to plateau. I have no idea what the speed is as I'm too busy driving and smiling :001_smile: They are not a big revver of a motor, use the torque to drive around and try to rev match to the next gear change.

I call 3rd the universal gear, you can cruise around a street corner or cruise on the freeway. They are quite a lazy and torquey engine for what they are.