Driving a manual without clutch?

Question

I recently leaned from my neighbor (an extremely experienced driver) that you can drive a manual transmission car without using the clutch (not for regular use, but just if the line were to break or something). I tried this out, and it works fine if in shifting if you make sure you time your shifts with your RPMs, but I have no idea how you would be able to start rolling (shift out of neutral) because i tried this and it just wouldn't shift into first. Has anyone heard of this before and have any advice?

Answer 1

You have to jump start it in 1st.

Answer 2

Push the car, park it on a decline all various ways to start the car.  I've done this several times in my teens.

Answer 3

You're right - you don't shift into first.  

If you had to use this technique to get home, then you'd shut the engine off at a full stop.  Put the engine in first, and start it.  This is a VERY BAD thing to do because of the load on the starter, but of course starters are cheap, and in an emergency it may work.

I've done it.  Several times.  Hydraulic clutches just aren't reliable enough, are they?  I've had 3, and darned if I haven't driven with all 3 of them not working.

Answer 4

I've done this with a broken clutch linkage. To start off just turn off the motor - put the car into first gear - start the motor. The start off will be a bit jerky but it will work. Can't say if it is good for the drivetrain though.

Did you try downshifting without using the clutch. I mastered that one with about 10 minutes practise. What the heck; it was a rental car anyway.