Questions

There is never a time when learning something is a waste of time. I would tell you to go to school while you can. It will be harder to do so the longer you put it off.

I recently had to have a heater core put into a 2007 Columbia. The core is located in a really tight place under the passenger side dash. It was blowing radiator fluid into the cab and I was actually having to use a squeegee to clear my windows enough to see out. The first place I came to was a TA. I had no idea as to how much getting one replaced would be. Final bill was 939 USD. I do not know if I got screwed or not. I have a feeling I should be pregnant. Not only will going to mechanics school help you it will save you money.

Learn learn learn. Knowledge is Power.

 

Sounds about right. I drove a Columbia for a friend that needed a heater core, so he took it to a Frightliner[sic] dealer and they couldn't even find one in stock anywhere. On the plus side, you don't have to wipe your windows anymore.

 

When they say 2 years winter driving experience what exactly are they alluding to? Can I acquire that experience staying in socal with robertson's or are they going to want me to venture outside of southern california winters? And do they mean 2 winters or 2 full years worth of winter driving (365 x 2)?

 

I spent 18 years as a field mechanic on heavy equipment. I would take off in the winter cause well field conditions lol. That's where the CDL came in handy. I don't know who told you drivers make more than "service guys" or mechanics but you should investigate more. True its hard to break out as a mechanic, they take a lot of flake from every body, including the older mechanics when they are starting out. Tools are a never ending investment, constant retraining its all worth it in the end. I miss it every day just wanted to pursue this little deal to before it was too late. Bolt pushers and butchers are a dime a dozen, but a good mechanic that can properly diagnose, work unassisted, and complete the repair in a timely manner without driving the parts bill up on things he broke can name his price. Fixing it right the first time goes unsaid

 

TSRH. I went back to school in 98 to get my degree, and it was VERY difficult, because it takes more to learn or unlearn when you're an old farte. Learn early when your brain is flexible, be a intransigent crotchety old geezer later when you've made it and you don't care who you piss off.

 

The mobile oil-field mechanics (working on-site) may make more money then the typical oil field drivers or the typical shop mechanics.