I need to learn about internal combustion engines. It's pretty pathetic that I don't even know how to change the oil in my own car. I haven't been that interested in engines in the past, but with my recent purchase of an old RV it strikes me that my lack of experience in this area is a significant shortcoming. I think I'll take some auto classes at a local community college when I find the time.
Get your Tim Geithner TAX CHEAT! stamps!
6 Comments
Leave a comment
The comment login system is acting strange. If you get an error message saying you aren't logged in when you are, just reload the comment page and try again. I'm trying to track this bug down, but it's not easy.
you can learn some of the basics pretty easily. Go into auto zone or whatever your local auto parts shop is and get a book on your car model. they show you how to do stuff ranging from changing your wipers to reboring the cylinders.
Oil changes aren't hard, as long as you have a jack (and the filter isn't obstructed, like it frequently is in modern cars.)
Hey,very interesting.I have the same problem,dont worry,you are not alone.The only way to learn about cars is to watch the technician doing maintenance in the garage and ask him all the questions.I have learnt a lot.You dont need to go in college and waste money.You will learn yourself at the garage.
I have no desire to change my own oil. I'd rather take it to the dealer where I bought the car from. It's generally not any more expensive.
I have, however, changed little stuff like the air filter, bulbs, etc. on cars I've owned.
Shortly after I bought my new Accord (last year) I put a K&N filter in it (for the longevity more than anything)... and it's quite a bit more involved than the same procedure was on the old car (2000 Dodge Intrepid).
Everyone (including women) should learn how to do basic maintenance on their car. The Chilton manual for our vehicle has walked us through many a repair, from changing lightbulbs to replacing the CV joints and the clutch on our Nissan Sentra. I'm doing my van's brakes tonight, over at my dad's house (he has the tools).
That being said, however, a lot of newer vehicles are being designed so that they can ONLY be serviced by people with special equipment. Case in point: we can't replace the spark plugs in our van ourselves because to do so requires dropping the entire engine out below the vehicle. Not a problem, if you've got a lift and an engine hoist... like the dealership does... I hate it when they design them like that.
WH: Good idea, I'm going to find a manual online! I can't believe I didn't think of that.
Hi, if yor RV is a diesel it will like clean air, oil and fuel so I used to change the oil and filters every 5000Km good luck and exect skinned knuckles!!!