Advice for a Newb

[Mark0fCain]

I bought a 93 atx SHO as my first car like a month ago and it blew a rod. There's no warranty on it or anything so I'm pretty much screwed. I don't know much at all about cars but I am mechanically inclined, my job in the Marines is helicopter mech. As I understand it I'd need to replace the engine, I can't afford for a shop to do it so I figured I'd try it myself. My friend is currently going through Lincoln Tech I'm not sure if they have schools all over or just on the east coast but it's an auto mechanic school and he'd help me. I just was hoping for any advice, like if it's a hugely complicated job or anybody with a mind can do it. Anything'd be appreciated, thanks.

 

[Bizzy]

It will be a time consuming job but I believe that any person who is mechanically inclined can do it. Just make sure you have a Helms manual to help you along the way. I admire anyone who can take something that's totally shot and make it work again. It may be cheaper to buy a whole new engine for it...but then again, you could be buying someone else's problems. I say go for it.

Also...you may want to check into the lemon laws in Jersey. I'm not sure if they have them, but here if a repair will cost over a $1000 and you bought the car within like 90 days then they have to give your money back. Just food for thought if you decide you'd rather go that route.

Good luck in whatever you decide to do!

<small>[ August 04, 2002, 09:23 AM: Message edited by: Bizzy ]</small>

 

[luigisho]

While the motor is out you may want to install a trans go shift kit to help prolong the life of the tranny. The autos are a little weak there should be some info about them here if you run a search. Also check out shotimes.com for many procedure write ups.

 

[munkee]

As long as you know how to turn a wrench there shouldn't be a problem with doing it yourself. There is always something to be done on these cars so you will save a lot of money by learning how to service them yourself. They really aren't too bad though, just don't expect to get anything done in a hurry. Less tools fly across the shop that way ! Like Bizzy said, get a helms shop manual and come back to the Forum when you have more questions. Good luck.