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[Calum]

I have just ordered the Haynes manual for my MV6 but as I am a complete novice can anyone recommend a more general car mechanics book that I could get to give me the background on what I need to know before (basic tools to buy etc).

Please be gentle with me - everyone has to start at the beginning  

[Dazzler]

Basic tools-
Set of combination spanners 7mm-19mm
3/8 1/2 socket set
Assorted screwdrivers
Set of male and female torx bits
There are lots of tools really but above is a nice basic one to get you started.
I believe that Halfords do a multi size large socket set but i think its about £150.....

[TheBoy]

Basic tools-
Set of combination spanners 7mm-19mm
3/8 1/2 socket set
Assorted screwdrivers
Set of male and female torx bits
There are lots of tools really but above is a nice basic one to get you started.
I believe that Halfords do a multi size large socket set but i think its about £150.....

Its now £180.

Picking up a Machine Mart VAT free day allows you to buy Clarke tools for good money. Not convinced the Clarke Pro are as good as the Halfords Pro though.

[TheBoy]

Oh, and avoid the Clarke (non pro) 300pc garage toolkit for £100. Its awful.

[shyboy]

If you are just starting out on your DIY maintenance career, I would buy small sets of sockets, spanners etc to begin with and add items as you come across the need for them. You'll eventually decide whether to invest in a fully comprehensive range as you go along and gain experience. I find it's amazing just how few tools you really need to cope with most servicing jobs.
Despite its dubious reputation, the Haynes manual really is an excellent starting point. This forum will soon teach you its shortcomings.

[Calum]

Thanks for the heads up lads. I'll wai tfor the manual and then start to prioritise the jobs I need to do. I'll no doubt be using the forum to help me out.

[The Elite]

The book you want is called the fundamentals of motor vehicle technology, its the bible when it comes to learn vehicle mechanics.

[albitz]

the haynes manual can be useful :-/ but i would advise to look on the forum for info,in my experience there are quiet a few people on here who know a lot more about omegas than the people who wrote the haynes manual

[Kevin Wood]

Haynes can be handy for a reference for torque settings, wiring diagrams, etc but they seem to work on the basis of giving very general information with the disclaimer "have it checked at a main dealer". In particular, the V6 cam belt change procedure is likely to put your engine in jeopardy if followed. Get the DVD here instead.

Kevin