DIY: Some DO's and DON'Ts

For most of the people that do their own work this may seem like second nature or common sense, but you would be surprised how many people are not aware of the basics of working on their own cars. Here is a small list of DO's and DON'T's that can make you a safer DIY'er.

Essential DOs and DON'Ts

DON'T rely on a jack when working under the vehicle. Always use approved jackstands to support the weight of the vehicle and place them under teh recommended lift or support points. Places like Sears or major auto parts store carry full hydraulic jack and stand packages, and a lot of times they are on sale.

DON'T start the engine without first making sure that the transmission is in Neutral (or Park where applicable) and the parking brake is set. Sometimes in the rush to test what we have done we forget to check the transmission (specially manual) and turn the engine. I know I have seen what happens when a manual transmission is left in gear and you try to start the car. Luckily automatic transmissions have switches to prevent this from happening.

DON'T remove the radiator cap from a hot cooling system - let it cool or cover it with a cloth and release the pressure gradually. The coolant is under extreme pressure in a hot radiator. This is why when a hose or radiator bursts you see the cloud of smoke all in the engine compartment. It is all the coolant hitting the engine parts and creating steam.

DON'T attempt to dain the engine oil until you are sure it has cooled sufficiently to avoid burns. I know I have changed the oil in my car when it was a little too hot, and it sucks to have hot oil drip on your hand/arm/face/chest.

DON'T touch any part of the engine or exhaust system until it has cooled sufficiently to avoid burns.

DON'T siphon toxic liquids such as gasoline, antifreeze and brake fluid by mouth, or allowe them to remain on your skin.

DON'T inhale brake lining dust - it is potentially hazardous

DON'T allow spilled oil or grease to remain on the floor - wipe it before someone slips on it.

DON'T use loose fitting wrenches or other tools which may slip or cause injury.

DON'T push on wrenches when loosening or tightening nuts or bolts. Always try to pull the wrench toward you. If the situation calls for pushing the wrench away, push with an open hand to avoid scraped knuckles if the wrench should slip.

DON'T attempt to lift a heavy component alone - get someone to help you. Preferably someone as strong as you or stronger.

DON'T rush or take unsafe shortcuts to finish a job.

DON'T allow children or animals in or around the vehicle while you are working on it.

DO wear eye protection when using power tools such as drill, sander, bench grinder, etc. and when working under a vehicle.

DO keep loose clothing and long hair well out of the way of moving parts.

DO make sure that any hoist used has as a safe working load rate adequate for the job.

DO get someone to check on you periodically when working alone on a vehicle.

DO carry out work in a logical sequence and make sure that everything is correctly assembled and tightened.

DO keep chemicals and fluids tightly capped and out of the reach of children and pets.

DO remember that your vehicle's safety affect that of yourself and others. If in doubt at any point get professional help.