Allakäik

Allakäik is a term used in Estonian automotive language to describe the action of shifting a vehicle from a higher gear to a lower gear, i.e., downshifting. It is relevant to both manual and automatic transmissions and is discussed as a driving technique to improve control and engine response.

In manual transmissions, allakäik involves depressing the clutch, selecting a lower gear with the gear lever, and gradually releasing the clutch to match engine speed with wheel speed. The aim is to use engine braking and to prepare for acceleration from low speeds, such as when entering a corner or starting on a steep incline. Proper timing and smooth gear engagement are important to avoid gear grinding and stalling.

In automatic transmissions, allakäik can occur automatically as the system detects a need for more torque or engine braking. Some cars also allow the driver to trigger a downshift manually, via a gear selector or paddle shifters, for sportier control or to better manage engine braking on descents.

Benefits of allakäik include improved braking control on descents, enhanced traction at low speeds, and more immediate power delivery when accelerating from low RPMs. Potential risks involve mis-shifting, engine overrev in downshifts, or reduced braking effectiveness if downshifts are not timed properly.

Outside road vehicles, the concept of downshifting related to gear selection and engine control also appears in other machinery with manual gear systems.

See also: downshifting, engine braking, manual transmission, automatic transmission, vehicle dynamics.