When I got my first car it was old (94) and therefore ‘simple’ compared to modern day cars with ECUs, etc. So when I had an accident and bent the small bar that sticks out of the front axle for the wheel to go on I took to fixing it.
I bought some tools: A wedge thing for removing the gasket and ring that held it in place. Pliers, wrenches, etc. Obviously the Haynes repair manual too!
After about two days I had a full toolbox. I was sweaty and covered in oil. But this bent bar was NOT budging.
I asked for help on a UK fan forum for my make of car. Yes - Nissan Micra’s had a fucking forum for enthusiasts!
A nice gentleman offered to come and fix it - his only payment being to give him a shout out on the forum.
He came round took one look at it and my tools, scoffed, and grabbed a long 6 foot hollow pole out of his van. Slots it on the end of the bent rod and pushes the other end.
He chucked the tyre on and it was straight. Shook my hand and said “see ya” and drove off.
30 seconds vs 2 days.
I’ve not bothered fixing anything since. I rely on pros when I can afford it.
This is so true. Random example:
When I got my first car it was old (94) and therefore ‘simple’ compared to modern day cars with ECUs, etc. So when I had an accident and bent the small bar that sticks out of the front axle for the wheel to go on I took to fixing it.
I bought some tools: A wedge thing for removing the gasket and ring that held it in place. Pliers, wrenches, etc. Obviously the Haynes repair manual too!
After about two days I had a full toolbox. I was sweaty and covered in oil. But this bent bar was NOT budging.
I asked for help on a UK fan forum for my make of car. Yes - Nissan Micra’s had a fucking forum for enthusiasts!
A nice gentleman offered to come and fix it - his only payment being to give him a shout out on the forum.
He came round took one look at it and my tools, scoffed, and grabbed a long 6 foot hollow pole out of his van. Slots it on the end of the bent rod and pushes the other end.
He chucked the tyre on and it was straight. Shook my hand and said “see ya” and drove off.
30 seconds vs 2 days.
I’ve not bothered fixing anything since. I rely on pros when I can afford it.