When to shift from 4th to 5th

[theredcouch]

Hi, I'm curious to know what the ideal RPM and speed are for shifting from 4th to 5th gear. I recently got a '97 Boxster and since it has more power than anything I'm used to I'm trying to learn how to gauge it. Usually as a rule I've been keeping the RPM's somewhere around 3500 for all gears. Is this wrong? Is there a guide or consensus?

Thanks for the input,

Tim

[Tool Pants]

Shift when you feel the rev limiter come on. :thumbup:

[Q-Ship986]

Jeff's response seems in jest, but here is what Porsche says in my owner's manual:

You will learn your car's responsiveness over time and shifting will become intuitive based eye, ear, hand, and foot coordination (perceived speed, peripheral view of tach needle, engine sound, gear shift position, and throttle position). Plus smell, if you're burning your clutch.

I have a 3.2 w/6-speed. For leisurely upshifting, I shift at 3000-3500 RPM's. I tend to cruise at/above 2500. For more spirited driving, see above.

--Brian

[adsach]

For max acceleration shift at max RPM.

For max speed shift at max RPM.

Do not be afreaid of RPMs when accelerating. The only way you will ever overrev the engine is by shifting into too low a gear at too high a speed. On my S 1st gear is for 0-42mph(indicated), second for 25-75mph, 3rd for 30-100mph, 4th for 45-125mph, 5th for 55-150mph, 6th for 65-90mph(cruising) and 150+ accelerating. The top end of the range is for UPSHIFT only. By that I mean I will accelerate to 70MPH in 2nd gear, but I won't downshift to second at speeds over about 40-50mph. Your 5 speed will have similar ranges, and I recommend you get to know them .

For everyday acceleration, you should get up on the gas above 4500 at least twice a day. This is based on the theory that if you don't enjoy your Boxster you might as well trade it in for a Solara.

Generally I cruise below 3500 on the street and below 3000 on high speed roads.

I never accelerate or climb a steep hill below 3000 RPM

Mileage will be better below 3000 RPM than above 4000 RPM, but you can cruise all day at 5000 RPM without causing damage or significant wear.

[number9ine]

Shift when you feel the rev limiter come on. :thumbup:

lmao... :clapping:

In all seriousness though, I'd recommend not being afraid of high RPM. Below redline, the entire powerband is at your disposal. Adsach's advice about downshifts is on the money. If the engine is working hard but you're not feeling any extra acceleration, upshift. And life above 4500 RPM is sweet in your car, man... it's where the sewing machine gives way to a banshee. :)

Edited December 7, 2005 by number9ine

[theredcouch]

I appreciate everyone's help, thanks.

Tim