How To Safely Launch Your Evo

Hard launches take their toll on all transmissions, but all-wheel drive cars fare the worst. This is because AWD cars often have more grip than power. For example, it’s possible to perform full-throttle launches in the current WRX STI with minimal wheel-spin. So unlike a RWD BRZ or M3, the tyres aren’t the weakest link. This leaves the transmission to bare the brunt of a hard launch.

As a result, I wouldn’t recommend full-throttle launches in an Evo, but if you’re determined to give one a go, here are some quick tips to minimise the damage to your car. The first thing you should do is make sure that everything is up to temperature (coolant temperature, transmission fluid temp, transfer case temp etc). You should then depress the clutch, bring the revs up to 5000-6000rpm (will vary from car to car), slip the clutch, creep forward at around 1mph and then release the clutch quickly and smoothly.

By slipping the clutch, first gear is almost engaged, taking slack out of the driveline. So when you release the clutch, the jolt sent through the transmission is lessened.