I am not a mechanical wizard, though I have enough experience to determine if it is something I can do or if it needs a real mechanic.
That said, I have some lessons learned:
1. Factory manuals save you the delta in cost vs Chiltons/Haynes on the first repair you do with them.
2. Get quality tools...quality does not necessarily mean super-expensive
3. Know your limits & when to say, "I'm taking it to a mechanic, now."
4. Own another vehicle, preferably a pickup, as alternate transport in case your primary needs to be dis-assembled for a while...or towed into the mechanic.
5. You are trading time for money
