According to one of my instructor during the free lesson, he
stated that the "1" , or "2" in auto modes actually means that the
gear will shift and stop at 1st or 2nd gear..
Meaning to say if you choose "1", it'll stay in gear 1 all the
way.. = Dragging the engine all the way..
From http://www.tpub.com/content/engine/14081/css/14081_57.htm
"L-LOW or POWER POSITION. T he transmission will not shift
automatically to higher gear ratios when the lever is in the low
position. The low position is used when negotiating steep grades
and rough terrain or when the braking power of the engine is
required. When low range is no longer needed, release the
accelerator temporarily and move the shift lever to the drive
position for normal gear progression. In the drive position, the
low range is engaged automatically when engine speed is reduced. If
the accelerator is suddenly fully depressed, the low range becomes
engaged. (This procedure may be used to provide a sudden burst of
speed for passing.) When a predetermined engine speed has been
attained, the transmission automatically returns to driving
range."
And from http://www.sdt.com.au/CHANGINGGEARS.htm
"In some situations the driver can without depressing the selector
button change to the 2 setting. This is not just second gear but
rather will allow the gears to change between first and second gear
only.
This position is used for extra power when driving up steep
gradients for lower speed overtaking or to provide engine braking
when descending prolonged steep gradients.
The 2 setting should not be used for braking, like before
cornering."
Btw, the 1st Auto license (3A) were issued few days ago only...
