Where to start learning about cars/trucks

[Burnout]

So after recently buying an 04 Explorer, I've become interested in learning about what's under the hood of a car. Until now, both I and my mom just bring our vehicles to the mechanic and let them do their magic. I'm a computer guy, so I know what it's like to be given something and told "I don't know what's happening, just fix it", but that also makes me want to be able to learn about this. My question is, where should I start?

I was thinking I should buy a repair manual (I found a manual by Haynes on Amazon for about $15) and just start going through what's under the hood, seeing everything it points to and playing around with it piece by piece. Just so I can get a feel of what's there. Then I saw the list of excellent How-To's on this website, so I'm looking at those as well.

I don't know how/if I want to customize anything on my Ex yet, but if I do I'd like to have a better idea of how these things are put together. So, how would you suggest someone who knows next to nothing about cars start learning?

If this is in the wrong forum, please move it. It seemed like the best place to post.

 

[jrford]

Haynes would be a good place to start, another good book is the Automotive Handbook by Bosch ISBN-10: 0837615402 for a great background resource, very advanced too. Another source which might be cheaper on DVD but i find the paper copy a little easier to work with, is the Factory Service Manual/Wiring Schematics for your model, about $200 for both. Its very accurate on tear downs, a lot more so than the Haynes which covers several years.

 

[corkey]

you are on this site now, it can be your best friend when working on an Explorer ,but also getting a Haynes manual will help too , ,

 

[Burnout]

Thanks for the tips guys. Turns out my school actually has the Bosch book in their textbook store... somewhere (it'll be hell to find it, they have a weird organization system). I'm gonna go check out if it's more expensive than I've found online later this week. Also, I found my 2004 Explorer's service manual/wiring schematics on ebay for $50. A bit much (feels like I'm buying yet another textbook ) but I'm sure it's worth it, and based on the price you told me, it's apparently a really good deal. So I'm gonna start just reading things and seeing where they take me.

 

[Gus Gorilla]

You'll figure it out. Once you get to digging you'll be suprised how much computer knowlege can apply to vehicles. It sounds like you'll need to pick up mechanical knowlege. Start with simple stuff. Change your own oil, air filter, fuel filter, etc. These are basic things that can teach you some stuff. When you change your (anything) check how it smells. You'll figure out what is normal. Burned smells burned no matter what it is. When you change a filter cut the old one open and look inside. Note how it works. A good mechanic doesn't always know how a particular item works exactly, but knowing the system and it's intent can take you there. It's like detective work sometimes. If part A does this, and part B does this, and the end result is function D. Then part C must do this. (X+4= 6, what is X) Etc. That's basic, but you get the idea.
Ditto on the Haynes manual and any real manufacturer manuals you can get your hands on. Aside from the personal satisfaction of the DIY job, you can save huge $$$ on easy stuff.

 

[Joe Dirt]

Agreed. Getting in is tha hardest part. Start simple- pull your front seats out and restuff them or something. It'll get you in the mechanical mood.

Another VERY good visual beginner resource is this channel on youtube:

CLICK ME

 

[Gus Gorilla]

Wow. I didn't know about that youtube channel. I learned something today.

 

[Joe Dirt]

Yeah- I didn't know about it until a few months ago, but there are some really good videos on there...

 

[BrooklynBay]

There are many good resources available. Type questions into the search bar on the top of the page to see many threads on what you're looking for. Google has search results on numerous linked websites.

 

[Slowlyvverot]

What they said. experience is the best teacher.

 

[rhauf]

I have a friend who's a computer guy too... (hes a programmer for microsoft) a year and a half ago he knew nothing about cars, but he's pretty technical (as i suspect you are too, if you're good with computers) and he wanted something fast.. so he bought a mustang and i helped him put together a supercharged 408 windsor (stroker) for it, swap in a 9" tremec 5 speed, suspension kit etc.. well he picked it up real quick and has done head gasket changes, differential work, and other things on his own now.. with no help.. at first he thought it would be hard to learn, now he cant believe how easy it all is.. i suspect you'll find the same is true, just force you're self to do a few automotive related jobs and repairs, and you'll learn stuff real quick.. read about it too if you want to learn more (this forum is a great place)

i think all it takes is the motivation to learn it, then it comes easy. if you want to know.. you'll pick it up right away (this is how everything is for me.. once it becomes interesting i learn quickly)