I didn't see any judgemental responses at all.
Who does/who doesn't?
Racer
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 322
Likes: 0
From: Mountains of Maine
I try to do everything myself, but it is basically a hobby. I always liked pretty much anything with a motor, and couldn't resist taking things apart to figure out how they work. I've always just jumped in with both feet, and so far its worked out OK...........
Pro
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 543
Likes: 10
From: B.F.E....Bowling Green Kentucky
This is an issue for me, I EXPECT people to be judgemental of me because of the fact that I am a woman in what is customarily a mans world. I admit I don't know squat about tearing an engine down, but would absolutely love to learn mechanical things like that. That doesn't mean I am gonna go out to mine and start tearing up stuff on a perfectly fine car just to learn how it works! As far as stuff I have done to mine, mostly cosmetic things, took out all the interior-- seats, carpet, trim, re-dyed and put down sound/ heat insulation. Loved doing that too, and am learning slowly about other things. Would love to try painting! This is my hobby, and like the OP stated, I have just as much passion for mine as anyone out there. And if I ever doubt my strength/abilities, I remember one thing: I have given birth without any pain meds, I survived that, so anything is possible!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 6,842
Likes: 285
From: Palmdale CA
This is an issue for me, I EXPECT people to be judgemental of me because of the fact that I am a woman in what is customarily a mans world. I admit I don't know squat about tearing an engine down, but would absolutely love to learn mechanical things like that. That doesn't mean I am gonna go out to mine and start tearing up stuff on a perfectly fine car just to learn how it works! As far as stuff I have done to mine, mostly cosmetic things, took out all the interior-- seats, carpet, trim, re-dyed and put down sound/ heat insulation. Loved doing that too, and am learning slowly about other things. Would love to try painting! This is my hobby, and like the OP stated, I have just as much passion for mine as anyone out there. And if I ever doubt my strength/abilities, I remember one thing: I have given birth without any pain meds, I survived that, so anything is possible!
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
From: Winnipeg Manitoba
I have been reading what everybody has been saying about fixing their cars in this thread and others, it shows me that any job can be done. The information that other owners give from their experience gives me more knowledge on how and what to expect on any repair that will come up. I seen members doing restorations and other jobs I would have probably not tried but will now because of their post, I Thank you knowledgable members; THANKS Zapparex
Racer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 257
Likes: 0
I try to do all my own work. I'm a great parts changer, this forum helps me diagnose problems. Every time I have someone work on the car I end up being sorry and shocked with the bill! I dont even let the tire guys take off my wheels, last time I couldnt get the lug nuts off my DD, they are animals with an impact gun.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 3,487
Likes: 83
From: Titusville Florida
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 145
Likes: 2
From: hudson valley ny
I like to do everything myself.Partly because I'm too picky and too cheap to pay somebody when I can do it and I also happen to enjoy it.I also have the tools,equipment and a place to work,which makes a hugh difference.It also doesn't hurt that I have been a fleet mechanic for over 30 yrs.,a job that involves a doing a little bit of everything.
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 141
Likes: 0
From: sahuarita az
to each his own
Don't think Enzo worked on his own car. I just love the feeling of getting it right (in working order i mean), and the knowledge that every piece of that machine has been in my hands. Oh yeah and bubba is a dope!
Last edited by vettestu; Apr 16, 2013 at 12:00 AM. Reason: more info
Racer
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 427
Likes: 32
From: North Alabama
St. Jude Donor '24-'26
I attempt just about everything. I have to blame that philosophy on my Dad. I grew up in southern California and my Dad always had some sort of hotrod and was in several car clubs. He's the one that instilled in me, the DIY mentallity. It stuck. I loved working on his Vettes, Camaro's, Chevelle's and his '56 big window Ford pickup (that I hope to own one day), then my own pickup.
All these years later, I still do my own work and I'm still picking up new skills. It never ends. As the cars change with technology, I learn new skills and techniques. Even dabbling in paint and body work. Hell, when I went to purchase my first home the garage was the thing I put the most emphasis on! Now, I have a buddy that owns a shop and I'm doing an LS swap. You wanna talk about breaking new ground and learning new things? Stripping a car to the bare frame, then putting it back together with a drive train that was not intended for it has been a true challenge. But, its also been fun!
All these years later, I still do my own work and I'm still picking up new skills. It never ends. As the cars change with technology, I learn new skills and techniques. Even dabbling in paint and body work. Hell, when I went to purchase my first home the garage was the thing I put the most emphasis on! Now, I have a buddy that owns a shop and I'm doing an LS swap. You wanna talk about breaking new ground and learning new things? Stripping a car to the bare frame, then putting it back together with a drive train that was not intended for it has been a true challenge. But, its also been fun!
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 241
Likes: 4
From: rochester ny
I do just about all of my own work on all of my cars because I really enjoy it but I also don't trust anyone else working on my cars. If I didn't do all my own work I would probably be broke! I have always enjoyed getting my hands dirty since I was a little kid and now I have compiled a solid arsenal of tools and there isn't a lot that I won't do.
I find it very fulfilling driving a car that I have a lot of time into. Although often things don't go quite as planned and that can be frustrating but still rewarding in the end
Mike
I find it very fulfilling driving a car that I have a lot of time into. Although often things don't go quite as planned and that can be frustrating but still rewarding in the end
Mike
