oreo

Flat shifting isn't new, but after my recent install, I have noticed a number of advantages, which apply to supercharged applications. So, if you're using an aftermarket computer which supports flat shifting (such as megasquirt), then IMO its worthwhile wiring it in....

Flat shifting is where you have a clutch switch tied into your megasquirt, which tells it when your shifting. You set an activation rpm, and an minimum rpm to hold the engine at, while your shifting, that is, if you shift really slowly.... As your shifting, you hold the throttle a WOT and the MS cuts fuel until your engine slows to the holding rpm.
The miata has 2 clutch switches, one of which tells the stock computer when you have the clutch in, which is perfectly suited for this application.

Here are the reasons why:

1. Boost gets back to maximum, right away after a shift.
Sure, the boost returns pretty quickly with a supercharger, but it's not immediate. The bypass valve needs to close, and then the SC needs to fill the intercooler (if equipped) and intake manifold. For my car (which has a large intercooler and bigger than stock manifold), I calculate .18 seconds to reach full boost, after reapplying the throttle.
2. You can shift quicker.
-first off, you don't need to think about co-ordinating a throttle lift, so you can focus more on the other parts.
-second, since the supercharger is working hard, generating boost, your engine will decelerate quicker. In my application, the engine slows down nearly twice as fast, with the supercharger pumping. This matches the engine rpm to the next shift rpm you want quicker, making the synchros work less and the shift itself easier.

Here is a screen shot of a shift event, captured on a MS2. (click on image bar to see it full size)
Top graph
White=RPM Red=boost Green=fuel.
The time from fuel cut to restore = .2seconds (yes, according to MS2, but regardless, datalogs reported a reduction in average shift time)




For more information, do a search on flat shifting (links dating back to 2008!)
I adjusted my switch, so it would active just before the clutch disengages.

triple88a

iTrader: (2)

After you press the clutch whatever happens with the engine doesnt change the load the syncros see. You could toss an imaginary motor brake on it that will instantly lock the crankshaft... once you press the clutch it is what it is.

Stealth97

iTrader: (5)

I've been using since 2006 ish on MS1. Love it

oreo

oops. Yes, good catch. I confusing this with clutchless shifting.

soviet

iTrader: (10)

This is a great way to destroy your transmission.

triple88a

iTrader: (2)

Well thats because you're granny shifting and not double clutching like you should.

Full_Tilt_Boogie

iTrader: (1)

Only if you're doing it wrong.

I used to flat shift on the stock ecu. You don't need megasquirt, you just need to be fast.

soviet

iTrader: (10)

stock ecu and what boost? go home

Full_Tilt_Boogie

iTrader: (1)

I was talking about when I was still NA.
You don't need to have it kill ignition when the clutch is depressed above a certain rpm (I.e. flat shift), if you're wrapping it all the way out you can use the rev limiter to accomplish the same thing. You just have to be fast enough to not let the revs drop down enough for it to pick up again. Its much easier than out sounds, I've done it on lots of bone stock cars, including my mustang.

As for it being "bad for the transmission", its no worse than shifting it fast would be. You're just using ignition cut to do the job of a closed throttle.

oreo

Yes, but everyone knows that supercharged Miatas, don't make enough power to break transmissions.

TNTUBA

iTrader: (1)

....COUGH......