Expert: Dan Gardener - 11/28/2010

Question
dear Dan

i am from india.
i am a information technology professional.
i like software troubleshooting also known
as logical debugging of software bugs/errors.


i would like to learn automobile reparing for two,three and four wheelers.
i am interested in cars, motorbikes and autorickshaws reparing to start with.
later on i can move to heavy vehicles like trucks, buses, lorries etc. this is purely
as a hobbysist i.e automobile reparing.

i do know to gain knowledge and expertise one requires sound theory as
well as good practical eperience in understanding the
electro-mechanical device and categorise the mechanical,
electrical and electronic faults in any breakdown of vehicle€s.  
to repair vehicle breakdowns one has to understand how each part of the vehicle works in terms of its functionality
i.e engine, brakes, sterring ,clutch, accelearator,batteries etc.


i require guidance from your side in terms of providing me good
websites,magazines,e-books, good tutorials on the net and also if you have any good learning material for the same.

note : i cannot pursue a full time course in automobile engineering but maybe i can join
a part time course-it will be difficult but maybe i can find out if any institute is offering
course/s on sundays.

thanking you,

awaiting your reply,

thanks & regards,
prashant s akerkar  

Answer
Hello Prashant

When I was a kid , my fascination was with the Hot Rod and Car Craft magazines. I learned a lot from them. I suggest you do a couple of things; First, Google "How to".... Body repair  and you will find some useful places to start. Second , find a shop around where you live and hang out and observe. Then find a little project to practice on.
Good luck, and Thank You for the question

Dan