New Fix-It-Yourself Manual

by Reader's Digest Association

The indispensable reference guide for every homeowner, guaranteed to help you maintain and improve your home while saving time and money. Covering everything from replacing faulty faucets and showerheads to curing the quirks of an air conditioner, this book provides step-by-step illustrated instructions, plus a comprehensive chapter on tools. Includes more than 3,000 instructional photographs, illustrations, charts, and diagrams. Let New Fix-It-Yourself Manual guide you through: * Fixing a broken dryer by testing the thermostat, thermal fuse, heating coils, etc. * Troubleshooting electric and gas range problems and fixing them * Reupholstering and reweaving chair seats * Stocking up on the proper tools and supplies for fixing electronics * Installing, testing, and repairing speakers, including maintaining proper polarity * Repairing broken handbags and suitcases properly and professionally * Fixing small engines in yard and workshop tools * Restoring broken air conditioners, heaters, and dehumidifiers * Safely disassembling, testing, and repairing a chain saw REVIEW AUTHORBIO

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction, How To, Self Help

448 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1996

About the author

The Reader's Digest Association, Inc. is a global media and direct marketing company based in Chappaqua, New York, best known for its flagship publication founded in 1922, Reader's Digest. The company's headquarters are in New York City, where it moved from Pleasantville, New York.

The company was founded by DeWitt and Lila Wallace in 1922 with the first publication of Reader's Digest magazine, but has grown to include a diverse range of magazines, books, music, DVDs and online content.

Reviews

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.6* Rounded Up
You never really 'read' a book like this, as in cover-to-cover ( at least I don't). You go to the sections that deal with the project you're working on. Over the years, however, I have read the 'Tools and Techniques' chapters as well as the introductions to many of the more specific sections e.g. 'Plumbing', 'Appliances' (large & small), 'Home Electronics', etc.
My edition is from 1996- but judging by the cover illustration on the GR listing, it's since been updated. Repair manuals are always going to be outpaced to some degree by technology, given this "wonderful modern age in which we live." The trick is how good an overview the book provides on the things that don't change that quickly I.e. the basics. My experience is it provides an excellent overview and has allowed me to deal successfully with many of the repairs I've attempted ( there's always situations that won't match up with the book). It's profusely illustrated, often on a step by step basis. The writing is clear and uncluttered and if it refers to specific terms or techniques, it tells you where in the book to find them. Not hard for a reader to digest, at all. Heartily recommended.

[Kelley Stoneking · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this 10 stars, I would. I've tackled many problems in my home using this indispensable guide--fixed dryer (twice), tuned up mower, installed faucet, installed receptacles and light switches, and repaired ice maker. Recommended to DIYers and/or people who can't (or don't want to) afford a handyman.

[Dustin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Own a home? You oughta own this book. seriously, it'll come in handy. A LOT.

[Melissa Lee-Tammeus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this book when I need to understand how to fix a sink or any such thing that any other person would charge me and arm and a leg for . . .

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

An update of the original Reader's Digest DIY manual, this edition adds in basic electronics and control systems repairs.

[Troy Lager · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book and a must have for home owners. My father had the old blue one and it seemed like he always had it out and was tinkering with something. This helps with most problems but if I come to a dead end I use https://www.clublocal.com/ to get a professional over to finish the job.

[Christopher Hatton · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must-own book for any non-handy guy who wants to pretend he's handy or save money on fixing anything. It is always available in my house to make me feel confident. Combine it with an internet video on a specific topic and you are good to go.

[Elijah Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not good at repairing things, but this book gives me the confidence that I can use it as a resource to figure it out. Or I'll just ask my fiancé. The well drawn pictures and difficulty ratings were features I really appreciated.

[Kate]

i don't really have the new copy. i have the old one. it is super-fantastico.

[Cws]

643.7 Rea

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hell yes- fixed my toilet with the info. Loads of basic info- highly recommend!!!

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gonna buy this one!

[alifehomemade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Essential book- we refer to this a lot!

[J Crossley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reader's Digest always has comprehensive guides, and this is no exception. You will find many suggestions and work-arounds to ways to fix the things around your home that need fixing.