idk im fairly new to stick... but i also thiny somethings wrong with my shift pattern... sometimes it gets stuck and doesnt go in w.o force... i want the only one who noticed this.... and today i missed 3rd gear...wtf.. i am retarted as hell thats the easiest gear... but in what are short and long term effects if i grind my gears lol.... not purposefully!! i have a feeling im gonna get flamed? lol.... i doubt im a forum favortie ahahahha :p

 

Excluding some (known) mechanical problems, the 8 is a remarkably smooth-shifting car and since your new to stick, I'm going to blame it on you. :D

First of all, shifting at WOT is hard on the transmission and is difficult to do without the car jerking. I'm not accusing you of doing that, but let's save that for a little later. I've found that when I shift around 6-7k it goes into the next gear a little easier.

When you shift (foot off the gas) your revs drop. Luckily, the next gear will go the same speed at a lower RPM. The key is to trying to shift into the next gear at around the time the falling RPM's enter the RPM range of the next gear at the same speed. The closer you get, the smoother you will be.

Also, try to lighten up on the gas in the moments before you shift. Engaging the clutch while your drivetrain is under load is a sure way to make your shifts jerky. There's a lot more to it, like heel-toe and rev-matching, but they rely on the same principles.

And have someone who's experienced with standard transmissions drive your car to make sure it is you. If it's cool to them, have them show you a few pointers so you don't ruin your syncros or anything.

 

Same as above, don't change gear at WOT (wide open throttle!), and take your time and gently push the gear lever, don't force it into gear. As you get a feel for the transmission, you can speed up the process.