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It can be said that no book or manual about do-it yourself auto repairs is fully complete without a section that concerns auto repair safety. Yet interestingly enough few budding or even experienced auto mechanics it seems pay serious attention to safety and basic safety procedures.

First of all take the time to remove all jewelry such as rings, watches and bracelets before starting work. Do not wear loose fitting clothing, ties scarves or coats that might get dangled up in a pulley or drive belt.

Next never crawl under a car or vehicle that is not adequately supported. Next in line never ever rely on the auto jack alone to hold up the car, truck, van or bus that you or your team are working on. No excuses will ever do for this cardinal and very deadly sin of omission and laziness. The vehicle should be on level ground with the transmission in gear (manual transmission) or park (automatic tranny). Next the emergency brake should also be fully engaged. One or preferably more wheels should be solidly and firmly blocked. To block a car from rolling a brick or a piece of wood can be utilized to prevent the car from rolling.

It has to be said and driven home to never ever run an engine inside a closed garage. You would think that this would be the first rule of auto maintenance and repair. Yet many try to get away with -"I will just run the motor for a second" is sometimes the refrain and excuse. . Buildup of dangerous and deadly CO, (that is Carbon Monoxide gas), and gas fumes are odorless and color and can be lethal. If you must run the engine, simply open the garage door or alternately vent the fumes outside with a length of tubing or hose.

Similarly when workings with batteries always remember that they contain sulfuric acid, so treat them with great respect when handling them. Be careful not to upset the battery, or to spill acid on the automobile's finish when installing or removing a battery. Protect your hands with rubber gloves and your eyes with goggles. Corrosion on the outside of the battery case can leave an acid residue that will and can eat holes through clothing so it is best to not use Sunday best when doing battery work. Play it safe out there when working on and repairing autos.