Working on your diesel is generally an enjoyable time, but it seems that even when we're the most careful and paying close attention to the task at hand, something jumps out and bites us at the exact moment we are vulnerable. Need to change the oil in your mom's Jetta but you only have one oil filter wrench that's too big and you're supposed to pick up a hot date in 30 minutes? Read on. We have a quick-and-easy, down-and-dirty solution to get you out of the jam or generally make the simple task even simpler. What we have compiled are 34 of the coolest garage tech tricks to help get you through even the most mind-numbing of maintenance chores and keep you from stuffing the pockets of your local service center. Following in no particular order...
A Few More Tips* Having a truck with electrical gremlins can be a headache. Next one that pops up, check the connections. Wires rarely go bad, but connections do.
* Polishing your expensive billet and chrome wheels takes a soft approach. Fleece material is perfect, but T-shirts, cloth diapers, and terry-cloth towels can actually scratch more.
* Listerine works better than soap for getting the smell of gasoline or other petroleums off your hands. Simply wash your hands with it like it was soap for fresh-smelling skin.
* If you soak rusty parts in straight vinegar, you'll find that after a few days the rust will be very easy to remove due to vinegar's acidic nature. Parts will be clean and paint-free too.
* Vaseline on your battery posts will keep them from corroding and provide a perfect contact.