Looking for experience

52paddy

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for mechanical, hands-on experience with cars. It is something I've always been interested in but have never had the opportunity to do. I didn't want to leave school before getting my leaving cert and am currently two years into an arts degree in college. Afterwards, I will consider an apprenticeship but, for now, I am looking to get more experience under my belt.

So far, all I have to my name is some simple jobs on my car (starter motor replacement, timing belt/water pump replacement, brake pads replacement) and, at the moment, myself and Da are working on his car (he was teaching me how to do the previous jobs on my car - he used to be a mechanic). Jobs to do include: replace rear anti-roll bushings, secure exhaust manifold, remove and clean petrol tank, bring emissions down, replace rear brake pads, fix wing mirrors and repair front electric window.

I work from 9-6 Mon-Fri and, for the next few weeks, will be working on my Da's car each evening. Then, we will also be doing the clutch on my car.

However, if anybody can give me some more work (hands-on but bearing in mind I want to learn and don't claim to know much) I would really be grateful. I've been in touch with some mechanics and garages and, the fact that I work Mon-Fri coupled with insurance issues means that none are willing to take me on under the circumstances.

I'm motivated, a quick learner with initiative and like getting my hands dirty. I'm 20 years old. Appreciate any replies or advice.

Cheers.

Nissan doctor

Tbh, if you plan on doing a mechanic apprenticeship then you've already got more experience/interest then most guys who start off.

If you have the space, why not buy an old punto or something for a couple of hundred euro or less even and just use it to practice various jobs on and see how things are put together?

Thats what I used to do long before I started in the business and then when you are going for an apprenticship/job they should be impressed by the interest and initiative rather then the usual I get when lads come into our place and can't even tell me what a timing belt is let alone whats involved in changing one.

52paddy

My father always said that the best way to learn is to strip a car down a see all the pieces first hand. Buying an old banger is ideal and something I may consider if a bit of money comes my way.