Discussion
I did the course in my Chimaera, but for several reasons I never got around to doing the test.
This Thursday I'm taking the test, trouble is that I now drive a 4-speed automatic (Merc E-class).
Obviously they'll expect me to know how to use 4,3,2,1 and kickdown - anything else I should consider?
Also, whats the situation with stopping at lights and using the parking brake? On the merc its foot-operated, I can't remember exactly how long I'm supposed to wait before I apply the parking brake?
This Thursday I'm taking the test, trouble is that I now drive a 4-speed automatic (Merc E-class).
Obviously they'll expect me to know how to use 4,3,2,1 and kickdown - anything else I should consider?
Also, whats the situation with stopping at lights and using the parking brake? On the merc its foot-operated, I can't remember exactly how long I'm supposed to wait before I apply the parking brake?
I have a RoADAR test coming up in march and, like you, I have changed my car since my last test. I too now drive an auto.
For both of us, I think the advice given here may be useful.
www.roada.org.uk/articles/automatics.htm
For both of us, I think the advice given here may be useful.
www.roada.org.uk/articles/automatics.htm
Hi Parrot, 
I went out with an auto today on an observed run - I seem to be our group's nominated autos 'expert' (kingdom of the blind & one eyed men....
).
Agree in broad terms with both of the articles, some thoughts on what our examiners look for from autos:
* maintain control of the gear selection - either by entry speed or manual selection. IPSGA still applies, and the speed phase can be used to control the gear the transmission selects when got get back on the gas.
* not to overdo the manual downselect, but where appropriate use it to:
- hold car back on downhills (prevent run-on or riding the brake)
- prevent 'hunting' on uphills
- in some circumstances to prevent run-on into roundabouts etc.
* smooth use of transmission, so use of kick-down to be minimised
* leave in drive when at lights, but use handbrake (rather than footbrake) in the usual way if you are stationary for more than a 'moment' - only use park when actually parking!
As you know, there are near-infinate variations in auto transmission systems - the key thing is find a method of using it 'in-system' that works for you, (and of course follows any instructions in your manual/handbook) and to be able to convincingly justify to the examiner why you are doing what you are going.
Good luck! Let us know how you get on.
(PS missing the Chim?)
I went out with an auto today on an observed run - I seem to be our group's nominated autos 'expert' (kingdom of the blind & one eyed men....
). Agree in broad terms with both of the articles, some thoughts on what our examiners look for from autos:
* maintain control of the gear selection - either by entry speed or manual selection. IPSGA still applies, and the speed phase can be used to control the gear the transmission selects when got get back on the gas.
* not to overdo the manual downselect, but where appropriate use it to:
- hold car back on downhills (prevent run-on or riding the brake)
- prevent 'hunting' on uphills
- in some circumstances to prevent run-on into roundabouts etc.
* smooth use of transmission, so use of kick-down to be minimised
* leave in drive when at lights, but use handbrake (rather than footbrake) in the usual way if you are stationary for more than a 'moment' - only use park when actually parking!
As you know, there are near-infinate variations in auto transmission systems - the key thing is find a method of using it 'in-system' that works for you, (and of course follows any instructions in your manual/handbook) and to be able to convincingly justify to the examiner why you are doing what you are going.
Good luck! Let us know how you get on.
(PS missing the Chim?)
Yeah he passed me, but he pointed out loads of things that I wasn't really aware of:
Covering the brake (its an auto) when engine braking up to hazards
Consistency - too hesitant in passing cyclists, but quite willing to dive in front of a JCB
Progress - a bit 'boring' on the NSL twisties, but to be fair to me it was 0 degrees, damp, and its a heavy car so I just left it in 3rd most of the time
But he complemented me on my steering, observation, system, and control. So all-in-all I think I learned a few things today, plus I get a nice certificate
Covering the brake (its an auto) when engine braking up to hazards
Consistency - too hesitant in passing cyclists, but quite willing to dive in front of a JCB
Progress - a bit 'boring' on the NSL twisties, but to be fair to me it was 0 degrees, damp, and its a heavy car so I just left it in 3rd most of the time
But he complemented me on my steering, observation, system, and control. So all-in-all I think I learned a few things today, plus I get a nice certificate
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