Any advice on where to learn about your vans mechanics

Post by **irishkeet** » 17 Jul 2006, 12:25

Hi all

Ive had my van a while now and i would like to learn the basic maintenance skills, I would also like to learn how to do the yearly service changing oil, plugs, filter etc. Im planning a long trip next year and some mechanic skills withh be a real asset.

I currently know f'all, Oh tell a lie i can top up the oil!

I was wondering if anyone knows of a course I can do? I have looked at the local colleges but the course doesnt really cover an old Aircooled engine.

Thanks in advance

irishkeet

Post by **jen** » 17 Jul 2006, 12:54

A techy weekend might be your best bet - I think there is a thread about a 'Southern' techy weekend in General Discussion, and there's talk of another in Nottingham later in the year - go along, see what other folks are doing to their vans, ask advice while you can physically SEE the van and what you are referring to, and pass on knowledge you have........

Post by **OLD ONE** » 17 Jul 2006, 15:38

Try you local school. Most now days do evening classes and a lot do Motors

Post by **irishkeet** » 20 Jul 2006, 12:15

any other ideas folks?

Post by **Horza** » 20 Jul 2006, 13:54

Haynes manual? Bently? Russek? Your local library for other general mechanics books?

You don't really have a lot of choice when it comes to it. An organised course (like at your school or college), a disorganised teacher (like tech weekends and mates who can do some) or reading about it (on here, the wiki or in another book/website).

That's it, there is only one other way to learn and that is to just get stuck in and learn by breaking stuff and taking it to the garage every five minutes for them to stick it back together.

Post by **belle in progress** » 21 Jul 2006, 14:18

hi not sure where in london you are but im starting a basic skill course at barking college in september, you can learn how to do a full service and also anything else you want within reason. i went 2 years ago but spent all my time doing non engine related stuff. cost bout £170. based at ceme. www.ceme.co.uk

Post by **chickenkoop** » 24 Jul 2006, 08:31

Don't panic, just simply ask on the general chat forum and tech advice forum are the any like minded t25 owners that can help you with this problem,there's always someone that live's near you. good luck. p.s helps if you are a woman.

Post by **jen** » 24 Jul 2006, 10:38

chickenkoop wrote:p.s helps if you are a woman.

I'd like to think the help and advice I've had with my vans is because I've made an effort to be friendly and helpful myself, and because I've asked nicely, not cos I've got breasticles.........

Why not set up a techy weekend down/over there Keith? You just need a date, and a field where they won't grumble about accidental minute oil spills...