[2e9x's]

As much as I am not a big fan of drag racing, I realize that I have no clue how to launch a car. This morning I hooked-up the GTech to try to get some 0-60 times with the SSTT. Of the 3 starts I really botched all 3.

So to those of you with manual transmissions...do you just torture the hell out of your clutch to launch? Do you fully disengage all traction control, or just a quick DTC push?

It seems to me that if I learn to launch better I can shave some time off an auto-x course. Right?

[AJerman]

I would turn all traction control off, but I don't know anything about launching a BMW with traction control or anything. I'm used to not having traction control. You will just have to do trial and error to learn how hard you can launch without spinning the tires. You will have to feather the clutch in to get your best launch though.

It's not really something that can be explained as much as something that you have to learn yourself through trial and error. I wouldn't worry so much about the clutch, you don't let it out so slow that you're going to burn it up, just enough to let it start transfering power without sending it all to the wheels at once.

[5soko]

some people like to use DTC or just to take it all off. it really depends on how hard u can launch it without getting too crazy.

one thing i like to do is def not run in cold weather, the RFT dont perform at all in cool weather. if u got some nice weather and hot temps the RFT work pretty well, just start from around 2k or so and up, start with everything off and then if traction seems to become a issue try using the DTC. its really some feathering at times aswell. im sure some other members will chime in as i only owned a manual 335i for a while until i got my auto.

[GeorgiaTech335coupe]

Ride the clutch. I launch from around 2.8-3k rpm. I let the clutch out about 1/4-1/3 of the way to start moving then, at a moderate speed, let it out all the way. You have to go by feel and the sound. It takes tons of practice. I consistently get 1.9 60 fts now at a dragstrip that does almost zero track prep. Practice, practice. Start launching from around 2k and work your way up as you learn the feel of the clutch.

[2e9x's]

Thanks for all the patient advice guys! Damn I feel like such a noob...

[maximka]

yep

[335destroyer]

yeah just listen to these guys and practice and ride the clutch just for a little bit and pop it

[2e9x's]

Again I appreciate the guidance. In all candor I have not been practicing as much as I should. It just feels like I am hurting the car which is something I really try to avoid.