Learn mechanical sympathy. That is, how much to tighten bolts without breaking stuff, knowing which tools are for what. This can be learned by working on frag

Learn mechanical sympathy. That is, how much to tighten bolts without breaking stuff, knowing which tools are for what. This can be learned by working on fragile things like bicycles, but it will help with everything from changing out a waterpump in a car or a dishwasher, to plumbing and electrical work. Its something that does take more time than a few hours, but being inquisitive about mechanical things is helped by knowing how much force is appropriate when repairing them.