IAM in an auto?
Discussion
Quick question,
I've looked through a few of the other threads on IAM training, and I'm convinced about the benefits, hence want to do the course.
Thing is I'm a poor student and my only 'servicable' car is an auto. As this is certainly the last auto I'll ever own is it worth me taking the training or should I wait until I get the full benefit from tuition in a stick-shift motor? Is there that much difference?
It's (hopefully) only going to be a year or so until I can replace the auto BTW.
Thanks.
Al.
I've looked through a few of the other threads on IAM training, and I'm convinced about the benefits, hence want to do the course.
Thing is I'm a poor student and my only 'servicable' car is an auto. As this is certainly the last auto I'll ever own is it worth me taking the training or should I wait until I get the full benefit from tuition in a stick-shift motor? Is there that much difference?
It's (hopefully) only going to be a year or so until I can replace the auto BTW.
Thanks.
Al.
The training is free, and the test is only £30 (possibly a bit more now, as it is over ten years since I did it 
), so not a major bank breaker.
I think that the jury is still out on the clutch and gearing aspects of the course, so no problem in an auto. The benefits (IMHO obviously), come from reading the road and observation.
Therefore I'd go for it. Don't worry about the auto.
Rich
), so not a major bank breaker. I think that the jury is still out on the clutch and gearing aspects of the course, so no problem in an auto. The benefits (IMHO obviously), come from reading the road and observation.
Therefore I'd go for it. Don't worry about the auto.
Rich
I agree mostly with what daydreamer had to say. The cost is now about £75 and is all inclusive, except any possible re-test. (It includes books and other stuff)
I did my test in an auto and then went on to become an observer, senior observer and then demo driver, all in manual cars.
You can do your test in an auto and when you change to a manual either ask you local friendly group if you can have a couple of refresher runs covering the manual issue (this was my option), or go on and re do the test. You may like the challenge.
The main points when driving an auto that are looked for are, full use of it's functions and selecting neutral etc when at traffic lights.
The main points are still observation etc.
I did my test in an auto and then went on to become an observer, senior observer and then demo driver, all in manual cars.
You can do your test in an auto and when you change to a manual either ask you local friendly group if you can have a couple of refresher runs covering the manual issue (this was my option), or go on and re do the test. You may like the challenge.
The main points when driving an auto that are looked for are, full use of it's functions and selecting neutral etc when at traffic lights.
The main points are still observation etc.
, so I'll leave it. Thanks for the feedback guys...I did this - and was an observer for the local IAM chapter for a number of years. Most of the whole big thing point is about what they call 'roadcraft' - anticipation, defense, positioning, all of which takes a while to take on board to the point where it becomes habitual. The actual control of yer car is a relatively easy bit to get right, so go for it - join the local group, take some observation sessions and see how you feel. There is no need to rush into doing the test. I have to say the lot I was with were a bit fuddy duddy - I finally quit after the promised visit by Ted Clemens (then the senior examiner) was downgraded to a slide show about chrysanthemums in Japan, given by one of the members! - but the driving skills are worth getting. On techniques - try 'the method' and you will need to use it for yer test, thereafter, keep on with the bits that work for you.
I'm due to take the car test in an auto next month. I've queried the need to leave the trans in drive at traffic lights (c.f. previous postings) but if that's what the examiner wants I'll do it. Damned if I will carry on that way after the test.
I also queried the need to pull on handbrake without clicking the ratchet. Observer replied to the effect that it will wear out the ratchet. I pointed out my ancient Merc has done 180,000 odd miles, the visible ratchet on the handbrake is as good as new so don't think I'm going to wear it out. He said "well its just a case of making your driving style sound smoother." I suspect its an ancient practice continued in the IAM cos its always been done that way.
I also queried the need to pull on handbrake without clicking the ratchet. Observer replied to the effect that it will wear out the ratchet. I pointed out my ancient Merc has done 180,000 odd miles, the visible ratchet on the handbrake is as good as new so don't think I'm going to wear it out. He said "well its just a case of making your driving style sound smoother." I suspect its an ancient practice continued in the IAM cos its always been done that way.
ajvmoore said: - I finally quit after the promised visit by Ted Clemens (then the senior examiner) was downgraded to a slide show about chrysanthemums in Japan, given by one of the members!
I think the chrysanthemums were probably the better deal - it's good to know that some of those old duffers have been replaced!
But I echo your points about the driving skills!
I had that c*ap about ratchets from the IAM bloke who did my minibus test. Tradition from the sound of things.
The Cavalier manual advises me to leave the car in drive at all times as it reduces the wear associated with it's (less than smooth) transition from neutral into gear. THAT causes wear.
There is of course the other problem, the car is getting old so gear selection times vary from 2-3 seconds usualy, to a rather less convinient 10-15 seconds on some occasions. No idea why - I call it character.
The Cavalier manual advises me to leave the car in drive at all times as it reduces the wear associated with it's (less than smooth) transition from neutral into gear. THAT causes wear.
There is of course the other problem, the car is getting old so gear selection times vary from 2-3 seconds usualy, to a rather less convinient 10-15 seconds on some occasions. No idea why - I call it character.
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