I'm new to these boards and am amazed at all the information here on modifications and whatnot. However, I'm a little confused. I have a '97 850 with about 110,000 miles on it. I love my car and I'd love to make it even better by doing some of the stuff recommended here. I don't want it to necessarily be a show car, just something that I thoroughly enjoy driving. So heres the confusion, where did all of you guys start? I'm not a mechanic and I'm assuming the majority of the people here aren't either. Should I buy some books (other than the Haynes manual or something similar) to learn the basics of electrical wiring and car function or should I just learn along the way as I go?

I'd like to think I'm mechanically-inclined so I don't see anything being too hard for me to learn, I just don't know where to go to get all the basic understanding that I need in one place. Any input is greatly appreciated!

 

Haynes manual should help.
Also if you can find a program called Vadis that will help as well. You can also look up parts on the Vadis program.

 

I would first learn the safety precautions, especially for:

- Jacking up the car
- What to keep in mind when working on the fuel systems

In many books, you will notice "CAUTION!"/"WARNING!". When they say it, they are serious.

What I did:
- I started to learn with a manual when I had a POS Ford Escort.
- Bought basic tools; I recommend Sears Craftsman for quality & generous lifetime warranty.
- Read a number of service manuals, tools & equipment instructions.
- Have patronised 2 shops when I had Honda Accord; the dealer & Mr. Jim Sherman at Jim's Imported Car Clinic in Rutland, Vermont. They allowed me to see them while they worked on my car, and during those times I "stole" some of their expertise which I consider as a priceless asset.

- Get your hands dirty, of course.

I hope this gets you started. Always keep safety in mind, even if some macho-men laugh at you (and I have witnessed many macho-men either had wrong/outdated knowledge or suffered injury for being conceited). Try to get acquainted with highly skilled experts such as Tech and other regular members here.

This type of book can actually teach you some useful knowledge, especially the basics:
http://www.amazon.com/Auto-Repair-Du...612&sr=1-9

There were also a few books I highly wanted to recommend but forgot their titles.

Happy New Year,


JPN

 

I would like to second that book recommendation, as I have it, and I am also just starting...its very good.....!

 

[sm=welcomesign.gif]

VADIS is anice program, and the Haynes manual is pretty good. Just keep searching the forum and you should learn something.
And if you get confused down the road, just post the question and some one can probably answer it.

Good luck