Topic: Anyone still work on their own cars?

[Fobroader]

My mechanical ability is between 0% AND WELL 0%. Having said that, when I was younger and more fit, I could do simple jobs like oil changes and believe it or not brakes.

My son recently said he would like to take a mechanics course as it would be nice to do his own repairs. Good for him, I just hope he hasn't inherited the Zero mechanically ability gene from me.

High school mechanics was a great course, Id recommend it to anyone. Its a great introduction to learning a bit about that metal thing that sits out on the driveway.

[Arthur Dent]

Even if you don't do your own work hopefully a little knowledge can hopefully help from having a mechanic replace your muffler bearings at great cost.

[Fobroader]

Even if you don't do your own work hopefully a little knowledge can hopefully help from having a mechanic replace your muffler bearings at great cost.

You mean he was BSing me??

[bridgecity]

I do as much as possible, sometimes taking on something beyond my current capabilities, but that's how you learn, right?  I also have the backup of my Dad and FIL, who are both very handy.

In the past 5 years, I can only recall one shop visit, and that was after assistance from my FIL (who has the ability to builds custom cars and access to every tool imaginable) couldn't replace a part due to specialized equipment required by the manufacturer. 

[Northernridge]

Haven't done much on any of my vehicles myself, no regular maintenance at all. I do basic things on the trucks...minimals mods like shocks, exhaust, intakes, programer but nothing fancy.

[dr_spock]

I didn't know about muffler bearings.  Is that why my muffler is making a rattling noise?   Are the bearings going?



 

[getHK()]

I've never worked on my car other than seasonal tire changes, but recently swapped all four struts on my car.  It took a few extra steps including cutting and drilling existing strut housing to retrofit koni strut inserts. Then assembled back together with new springs and strut mounts.  In the process I bought a bunch of tools and supplies to complete this project that I normally would never buy, but I still saved $$$ and now have the satisfaction of completing it. 

Credit goes to car forums like these that gave me the confidence and know how to take on such a task.

[Firm]

^ Nice work man!

[mrthompson]

Even if you don't do your own work hopefully a little knowledge can hopefully help from having a mechanic replace your muffler bearings at great cost.

You mean he was BSing me??

I would have suggested duct tape to fix that little hole.

A few sticks of epoxy putty, formed into a pancake. 

http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/4/Auto/AutoRepairAccessories/Adhesives/PRD~0382540P/J-B+Weld+High-Heat+Epoxy+Putty+Stick.jsp?locale=en