How Many Do-It-Yourselfers Are Out There?
August 31, 2006 – 9:18 am by Dan Volkens
Filed under Car Care
I always like to try to do something myself before giving in to the professionals. Sometimes that saves me a lot of coin, sometimes it gets me in trouble.
Doing general maintenance jobs yourself is rewarding and the learning experience is invaluable, provided you have some type of reputable source to learn from like a Bentley service manual. And you have the pride of knowing you did it yourself and the job was done well. (you hope)
The number one DIY project for your car, and one of the most important, is the oil change. For practically every vehicle out on the market it’s a simple, straightforward process: drain the oil, change the filter, fill it back up, done. Of course there are hidden details and tips that every DIY oil changer should know. Look forward to some of those showing up in a How-To I’ll be writing soon on an oil change for a 24v VR6 engine.
So back to my question that started this whole post. How many of our beloved readers out there are aspiring weekend mechanics? What kind of jobs have you done? What kinds of How-Tos would you like to see here on Volksbloggin?
How Many Do-It-Yourselfers Are Out There?
August 31, 2006 – 9:18 am by Dan Volkens
Haven’t done too much on my TDI other than the basic oil/fuel filter change, but have taken older air cooled engines down to the short block (removed the heads/cylinders) for various reasons.
Everything needs a special tool nowadays, it gets expensive.
Mostly oil changes, but my ‘97 GTI VR6 has been giving me plenty to work on these days. I’ve replaced nearly every component in the secondary air system. I’ve only recently replaced everything in the AC system except for the condensor. (which would be pretty simple compared to the evaporator) Some pics here: http://www.craigtown.com/2006/08/my-neighbors-think-im-insane.html
Other minor service items include spark plugs and wires.
Other slightly major things include coil-over suspension and brakes.
You’re right though, Bentley is key.
Duuuuude…rock out man! That is hardcore. Amazing how much you’ll go through for AC, eh?