how to use overdrive properly

[biggbn]

..again apologies for my 'ignorance'...should i dip clutch when switching in and out of overdrive on my 122s...using clutch certainly seems to make change smoother when coming out of overdrive, but just lifting throttle when going into overdrive seems smoother...and much less hassle, cos i'm a lazy git!!!?..seems to sit about 2800/2900 rpm at 70/75 ish

[jamie]

That is what you are looking for, smoothness, not that jerk when you treat it just like another gear without a clutch
Most people say dont be a lazy git and use the clutch!!

[biggbn]

..so use clutch comin out but not going into overdrive..smoothest 'feel' always best?

[classicswede]

You should not need to use the clutch for o/d, you should have a fairly smooth change.
Check you oil level for a start and clean the filter.
Also Make sure all the electrical connections are good as these often cause problems.

Dai

[TomTom]

I always use the clutch when coming out of OD because it always jerks if you don't (apart from at 40mph).

Going into OD shouldn't be jerky at any speed, and as you say, I just lift off a bit to smooth it even more.

Tom

[andy rowlands]

You are asking a question which Volvo has actually contradicted itself on, in the 120 overdrive supplement for the handbook it suggests that for a smooth change you dip the clutch, on both engage and dis-engage, in the 140 handbook it says to dip the clutch on dis-engage. Well there you have it!

I use the clutch for both, although engaging is not really necesary, if I don't, I can make the o/d slip under heavy acceleration.

I am so used to o/d now I even try to find it in my modern cars, either indicating or turning the wipers on!

All the best

Andy