About

    I like to do it myself.  I learned from my dad, who could fix about anything with next to nothing. As for my background, I am a trained electronic technician. I was employed  for a number of years as an industrial electrician. Earlier I attended college and majored in English. So I like to fix things and then write about it. The vehicles you see here are my own or belong to relatives. When working on cars and trucks I prefer to have a Haynes repair guide on hand, at least for the first time I do a complex repair. Then I write up the procedure my own way, in my own words, with pictures and as much hands-on detail as I can.
     I also like to devise solutions to common problems, like removing a pick-up truck cap with one person. Often the solutions require some original thinking. Parts or tools may need to be fabricated and unique solutions devised. I love the challenge, and the feeling of satisfaction as a job is successfully completed. I saved money and got it done right. Well, not always the first time.  
     A very helpful repair aid is time. There is nothing harder than doing a difficult repair on a vehicle when you need it now. We can't whip through a repair like a professional mechanic who has done it a hundred times. We don't have the special tools or diagnostic equipment or training. We do have ingenuity and perseverance and the motivation to do it right and save money. If lacking a spare, try to arrange a loaner from a friend or relative while doing the repair. Maybe you can do a repair for them someday to return the favor.
   Take the extra time to label wiring connectors and parts and fasteners. An adhesive-backed label folded over and stuck to itself works great on wiring. An empty egg carton is great for nuts and bolts. Just slip in a scrap of paper explaining where it goes. Care taken up front will save time later.
   I find a portable, well stocked supply of  tools a very handy and efficient aid to getting a wide variety of  jobs done. Check out the tool box organizer,
   Many of these repairs have a corresponding You Tube video that may be helpful. Click on  "You Tube" to find my channel "The Original Mechanic."
   Be careful and be safe and don't be afraid to tackle it. I hope some of this helps out. Thanks for stopping by.




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