Know Any Mechanic Schools?

Q: I've been riding for 3 years now and everytime I have a problem with my bike I have to bring it in to a mechanic. You know how much time and money that can be. I'd like to understand how the bike works and solving any problems that I have in the future. Does anyone know of a mechanics course in the Los Angeles area? Thanks...

A: -I am an ASE-certified Master Tech (the highest certification a mechanic can get), let me tell you how I did it, and it wasn't by way of any PANSY-ASS motorcycle mechanic's school. You learn by WORKING ON YOUR BIKE!!! Start with real simple jobs, i.e. replacing the battery, or the spark plug, or installing a skid plate, and work your way up. Even the most complex transmission or engine overhaul can be broken down into hundreds of little micro-jobs, few of which are more complicated than changing the spark plug. It is more a matter of developing the following things over time: patience, a collection of tools, perseverance, patience, experience and also patience. You fund the tool collection with the savings realized by not taking it to the dealer for service. Walmart, Lowes & Home Depot carry most of the hand tools you will need and they all three guarantee them for life. Eventually you may need to supplement these tools with some Craftsman tools from Sears (more expensive) and you might occasionally need to visit the mega-expensive tool trucks such as Snap-on, Mac, Cornwell, Matco, etc. Try to use those as a LAST RESORT, you can pay $50 for a single wrench on a tool truck....YIKES!!!....but once a year, they will be the only answer for some weird f*ckin fastener you have to remove. You also need to purchase the Factory Service Manual for the various bikes you own, if you want to do it right (these can be ordered from your dealer or sometimes from Helm Inc. http://www.helm.com -- Honda service manuals come from these guys, as do many car service manuals) - How did you receive your certification and who delved it out for you? Did you receive any endorsements along with your certification? Just curious. > > I understand the best way to learn is on your own bike BUT I hate to work > > on it and I put it back together wrong. My worst nightmare is hitting a > > jump and something goes wrong in the air. Besides doing it myself, do you > > know of any schools in the LA area? Ever heard of a skydiver who lets somebody else pack his 'chute? Ok, sometimes it's really best to leave repairs to people who know what they're doing. My dad had the carburetor top thing too tight so that it grabbed the slide when WFO. On the '5', that provides some entertainment (bike 10 ft. up in the trees etc.).

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