Very relevant points well put, many thanks.
Agreed, we've all done the hard miles in the past but it doesn't have to always be that way now. If used properly, the internet is a great way to research a project before starting, for confidence if nothing else. My dad was my 'Google' when I started messing with cars and bikes, but not everyone in the hobby had or has that.
I always buy a factory workshop manual and study it before doing anything I'm not familiar with. An invaluable start to any job.
A great point about just providing a little info about the vehicle, specs, the task, the steps already taken etc. When you phone your pal for advice, thats exactly what you would do.
I also agree that trial and error is a great way to learn and problem solve, as long as its not costing more money than it should.
A small mistake can cost a lot of money in an already expensive hobby. This is maybe more relevant here in the UK as everything for C Bodies is very expensive (on top of fuel being the equivilant of $11 a gallon for E5). A set of 8 spark plugs are about $80, an air filter element $60, a carb rebuild kit $100 (more if they have to be imported) etc etc so I dont want to be ruining a $300 Felpro gasket set that Ive waited 3 weeks for, for the sake of asking a couple of pertinent questions and occasionally hitting the 'search' button.
I'm old school too and my shop manuals are well thumbed, but I have also embraced research on internet forums, using Youtube, planning a job then just putting in a call to an experienced friend to run the plan past them etc etc. All tools in the modern toolbox. My dad always said 'the only stupid question is the one you dont ask'.
I find threads on projects very useful before starting, and creating a thread on a task to help others once the work is completed. A good one will highlight what went wrong as well as positive results. It details sources, tools, methods, best practice, safety, testing etc
I'm really no expert at all, but have written comprehensive threads with detailed photos etc on bulkhead connector bypassing, electronic ignition upgrades, relay systems for lighting etc purely as a reference source to help others avoid the (sometimes costly) mistakes I have made. Don't even ask about the very expensive Daniel Stern turn signal switch incident on my old '66 Fury...you will cry nearly as much as I did. A hard way to learn about the results of being jaded and mixing up live and ground wires!
I think its a very close community here and the kudos gained from experience is only worth something when its shared. I too am extremely grateful to the guys with the knowledge and expertise who help us all progress.
Cheers Steve
