Stag ownership....mechanic or non mechanic?

[Gaz1024]

Hi guys,
I’m not having a wobble or anything!
I’m still a future Stag owner however I’d like to ask this.
I see that mostly, threads are about how correct issues.
Are you mostly all mechanics or would you say you’re enthusiastic non trained mechanics?
Are most things fixable for a non mechanic that’s enthusiastic to learn with help from forum members?
Being a construction site manager all my life, the opportunity to get really involved in mechanics has never risen!
I do really like learning about how things work however.

Gaz.

[mallardstag]

enthusiastic to learn with help from forum members?
I do really like learning about how things work however.

I think that's all the qualifications you need.

Simon
(not a mechanic)

[Phil S]

there are some jobs that can be taken on at home and others that are better left to a let's say repair shop, that may be mechanical or bodywork.
but with space, time and the correct tools any job can be completed by a competent person who is keen enough to to see the job through.
the hitch can be SHMBO as family life has to come first at times.
Phil (retired mechanical engineer) well one day I hope to anyway

[MandM]

Originally posted by Gaz1024 View Post
enthusiastic to learn with help from forum members?
I do really like learning about how things work however.


I think that's all the qualifications you need.

Simon
(not a mechanic)

+1 and you will always find someone willing to help/guide you in your area, Bristol is a large group so you should be fine, you will need A/F spanners sockets etc.
READ, ASK, PLAY

(mechanic 17-21, Injection moulder 25-60, retired bum)

[Niallcat]

Long time ex mechanic, if you have the desire to learn you can do anything and there are some great members here with the skills and experience that are willing to share their abilities and enhance the abilities of others and they are appreciated by all of us

[MikeParker]

I think that your interest and enthusiasm is all you need to do most jobs on the Stag. As a construction site manager I'm sure you will have picked up a lot of basic mechanical nouse. I am not a mechanic but much of the love of owning my Stag is from working on the car. You create a bond that is hard to get with a modern car that is maintained by a garage. I wouldn't be surprised if you too get a lot of pleasure from looking after your Stag if you decide to buy one. And there of plenty of us here only too willing to put in our two pennies worth if you have a problem!

Mike

[JeffW]

I am not a mechanic but love learning new things and love the feeling of fixing something mechanical. As said above, lots of help, photos, guides and friendly people on here and lots of things you can do on the car with the ROM and a standard set of tools. I have loved every sweary minute of it, even when it's frustrating it still is better than sitting at a desk all day like I do usually!

Jeff

[Gaz1024]

Thanks guys.....some great feedback!
I don’t mind getting oily!

[trunt]

There's not a lot that cannot be done given the will. The internet makes this so much easier than it used to be. Instead of paying someone, buy or borrow the correct tool and as long as you are committed it will get done and give you immense satisfaction. For some of us thats the whole point of this hobby.

My cars are all my own work, and as I'm sure Kryton said I often engage "Smug Mode"

Terry

[JJF]

Go for it, there's so much pleasure that you find a way.
Just be prepared to spend a few quid and then a few quid more. It's a 50 year old car at the end of the day so you will have a few issues, remember also that a lot of the problems are posted and that doesnt mean you'll have 'all' of them.
Just get the motor checked out by a member or a knowageable mechanic, owners are great believers and enthusiasts.
Good luck

[woodysnr]

Hi I am not one either Just got my stag yesterday from a garage who was selling it on behalf of a client it needed a lot of mechanical work and now it’s home it needs some attention to detail which of course will be ongoing and of course fun Good luck with yours

[Chix]

Hi guys,
I’m not having a wobble or anything!
I’m still a future Stag owner however I’d like to ask this.
I see that mostly, threads are about how correct issues.
Are you mostly all mechanics or would you say you’re enthusiastic non trained mechanics?
Are most things fixable for a non mechanic that’s enthusiastic to learn with help from forum members?
Being a construction site manager all my life, the opportunity to get really involved in mechanics has never risen!
I do really like learning about how things work however.

Gaz.

Hi Gaz,

I got my Stag in May. Never been a mechanic, or worked on cars, but I love problem solving and have a logical mind.
Mine was a non-runner, and although at first a bit hesitant, the whole point of me getting a classic car (as far as I was concerned) was to try and do everything myself and learn as I go.

I've got some awesome mates who (via FaceTime) are enjoying the journey as much as me, and have some mechanic experience; you really do need their advice.

Plus the people on this forum (I also use a separate forum for my engine, as it has a Ford V6!) really help too.

My Stag is now running beautifully and has been an absolute god send for me during lockdown; she's been my therapy.

I guess it's whatever you want out of life; if you just want a lovely quality car to drive, then you need money to get someone else to fix her up, but if half the journey for you is knowing how she's put together and what makes her tick, then go get your hands dirty!

[garyf]

I'm not a mechanic and I managed to change the waterpump and cure other problems
plenty of info on here and on the net
Mine could possibly be up for sale as I fancy a Merc SL R107 next

[Gaz1024]

I'm not a mechanic and I managed to change the waterpump and cure other problems
plenty of info on here and on the net
Mine could possibly be up for sale as I fancy a Merc SL R107 next

......might have to stay in touch Gary, I could be interested!!

Gaz.

[Alanfp]

Agree with all the above.

... and would add "know your limitations, and always work in a safe manner".