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Old 03-06-2010, 08:50 AM   #4 (permalink)
IDZRVIT
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Join Date: May 2009
Location: Halifax
Posts: 1,659
Drives: '13 CTS-V, '76 Vette
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Download the service manual here on the forum and read through it ahead of time. If you don't have a good set of tools buy the most complete set of mechanic's tools you can afford (Craftsman @ Sears has decent and affordable options), then budget a little each month or so to add to your toolbox as the need comes up. Get a floor jack (I got a pretty nice one at Costco). Don't forget jack stands (Harbor Freight has some cheap one that work well). Also: low profile ramps, oil catch pan, oil filter wrench, rubber mallet and a torque wrench - that will get you started.
You took the words out of my mouth. Tools and the factory shop manual are a must. Then go from there doing the basic maintenance and repairs. As your tool box grows you can get into the more difficult stuff. One big important thing to remember: Know your level of incompetence. Certain repairs are best left with the pros. Some repairs and adjustments like wheel alignments are a no brainer - it has to go to a repair shop. One other thing, a diagnostic code reader or scan guage type instrument is a plus. Good luck in your initiative. The best thing about DIY is the satisfaction of doing it yourself and the money you save which goes to pay for your tools!
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Vette: 355 cid, 400 rwhp
'13 CTS-V Coupe: 6.2L LSA, 556HP
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