1997 Lexus SC 300 Owners Manual - Page 149

STARTING AND DRIVING gear km/h (mph) 1 to 2 or 2 to 1 24 (15) 2 to 3 or 3 to 2 40 (25) 3 to 4 or 4 to 3 65 (40) 4 to 5 or 5 to 4 72 (45) Downshift to the appropriate gear if acceleration is needed when you are cruising below the above downshifting speeds. Upshifting too soon or downshifting too late will cause lugging and, possibly, pinging. Regularly revving the engine to maximum speed in each gear will cause excessive engine wear and high fuel consumption. Maximum allowable speeds To get on a highway or to pass slower traffic, maximum acceleration may be necessary. Make sure you observe the following maximum allowable speeds in each gear: gear km/h (mph) 1 57 (35) 2 98 (61) 3 146 (91) Good driving practice S If it is difficult to shift into reverse, put the transmission in neutral, release the clutch pedal momentarily, and then try again. S When towing a trailer, in order to maintain efficient engine braking and electrical charging performance, do not use the fifth gear. ! CAUTION Be careful when downshifting on a slippery surface. The abrupt change in engine speed could cause the vehicle to spin or skid. NOTICE Make sure the vehicle is completely stopped before shifting into reverse. NOTICE Do not downshift if you are going faster than the maximum allowable speed for the next lower gear. 140