Calling all the handy men on the forum

[ChroniC]

In times of hardship, its probably a good idea to have a working knowledge of fixing stuff. I as many of you guys might, having built your own computer or having fiddled with your cars engine, feel they can have a good go at basic electronics and mechanics.

My question is how many of you fix your valuables. I ask because im in need of a washing machine, (just moved into a new unfurnished place) and am thinking of buying a machine someone might be selling because they can't fix a basic problem.
Im trying to guage whether its easily done, or a waste of time.

 

[Werewolf]

It all depends on the problem - things like drive belts, pumps and seals on washing machines can be fairly simple if a bit fiddly to replace (just make sure you keep track of where all the screws go, and spend some time looking at it before you do anything).
Even the main bearings can be replaced relatively easily (with a lot of muttering/cursing) if you're reasonably mechanically minded and have the time/tools to do it.

[edit]
With things like door seals make sure you have plasters handy - chances are you'll graze knuckes etc whilst getting it fitted

 

[trO]

Price the parts up as well, or you may find out it aint such a cheap washer....

 

[Glaucus]

yep depends what breaks. electronics these days are normally imposable for normal people to fix. Lets go back to basic parts tat are black when they die and get rid of all these chips you can't get hld of or are programmable.

Also I expect you could get a 2nd hand one for a bargain on the bay. Things which are to big or heavy for people to move generally got dirt cheap.