I was wondering if anyone could direct me to a good auto repair/tuning correspondance course I could take at home via books or online; or perhaps if there are any good free education sites covering auto repair/tuning.
I work full time + I'm married with kids so I would like to learn at my own pace in my spare time so I can do my own repair and tuning on my cars. It costs too much to have someone else do it.
Thoughts? Advice?

Thanks

fyi - I drive a '95 Honda Civic EX and I also have a '93 Nissan Sentra. The family vehicle is a '00 Honda Odyssey.


Modified by loosestring at 5:38 AM 11/10/2005

 

In my opinion, it's very hard to "read" about things like this and expecting to learn. You may learn some things...in theory, but working on the actual car is totally different. For example, I'm reading ICE Fundamentals right now, or TRYING to read, rather. Using the specs/info in the book, I could technically build an engine from scratch, right? Could I actually do it? Hell no.

I recommend that you start working on the simple things on your car first to get to know it. This can range anywhere from simple oil changes to strut/shock replacements, to brake servicing, timing belt/water pump replacement, and then onto bigger things. That's how everyone starts. Do you have a place to work on your car (garage, etc?). Do you have friends to help you out when you do need to work on the car? Many times, having a buddy there can make things a lot easier. It gives you confidence, and it's an extra head.

In my experience, get two books to start. A general "how engine's work" type of book just so you know how everything works. This will include how oil is routed, why lubrication is important, timing, combustion, etc. Try to get one that doesn't delve too much into the theory, as that can get quite tiresome and boring, IF you don't need to know it.

Afterwards, get a simple repair manual such as the Haynes. The Helms is too complicated for now and you don't really need it yet. The Haynes should be less than $15 and shows you how to do most things on the car. Make sure you get one for the car you own.

 

Thank you for the advice. I already know many of the basics. I have changed oil many times and done some other routine maintenance such as changing radiator hoses, fuses, air filter, brakes, etc. I am ready for more advanced things now and the Haynes manual seems a little vague at times to me. Perhaps a good "How Engines Work" book would be good for me at this point. My dad once told me that he learned by taking an engine apart and then putting it back together. Maybe that's what I should do after reading the aforementioned book...
Thanks again.

 

check out

http://www.c-speedracing.com (look under "HOW TO")
http://www.summitracing.com (search for "honda books")

also

use the "SEARCH" button in the top right corner. many topics have been covered multiple times.

good luck

 

also check out Omniman's DVD of him building up a 200whp B16. Great referance!

http://www.omnipowerusa.com

 

Thanks a lot!