Hopefully I will see an answer!

Maintenance/Repairs
1

With today’s cars (in my case a small

4 cyl. FORD pickup) just how bad is it

if you lug the engine? With the five speed

first is a little TOO low, second TOO high

to start off in, in most cases.

2

Lugging is bad. Starting in first is the better of the two choices you listed.

3

Lugging an engine can result in broken piston rings. Not a good idea.

Tester

4

With practice you will be able to handle it starting with first. I would not make a habit of starting in second as it will wear the clutch and may cause other damage.

5

Use first. It’s easier on the clutch too. It’s bad to lug a four cylinder, a six cylinder, an eight cylinder, a ten cylinder, a twelve…