Save That Old Computer

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Nowadays it seems there are plenty of old computers lying around replaced by newer machines that are faster and have more features.  Before you toss out that old tower or laptop, consider setting it up in your garage.  There are lots of reasons for this.  Here are some that you may not be aware of.

  • You can get on the internet without going inside the house.  What is the point gap for a ’53 Ford?  Google had the answer in ¼ of a second!  You can’t find it in the book that fast.
  • You can access special web sites for your particular classic.  For example: Early Ford Registry, MG Registry, Hudson/Essex Car Club, Porsche 356 Registry, Armstrong Siddley Club.  You get the idea.
  • While you are out there working or tinkering, you might as well enjoy the music you like with minimal commercials.  Ever tried www.pandora.com ?  You specify the music you want to listen to and it’s free for up to forty hours a month.  Not everybody likes commercial radio.
  • You can locate parts and tools quickly and order them just as easily.  By now you know where to go for car parts but it’s easy to shop around on the ‘net.  Save the best ones as “Favorites” for quick access.
  • Don’t forget to check our website for the next local AACA event.  In addition there are links there to AACA National, plus AACA Forums, even a place to check for gas prices.
  • Surprisingly, you can access some car repair manuals online through our North Carolina Public Library system.  All you need is your library card number.   You do have one?  Try your public library for repair manuals.
  • YouTube has all sorts of videos that can guide you through lots of basic repair procedures like replacing brake shoes or changing a thermostat.  It may even be possible to see your specific make of car being worked on.  I once used YouTube to see how to clean a fish.
  • If you set up the email on your garage computer, you can reach out to friends for technical support.
  • If you get frustrated with your car, there’s always Craig’s List and eBay if you want to sell your car or buy another one.  Craig’s List allows you specify a particular city to check out.

You may need to add a couple of pieces to get your computer to work in the garage.  If your connection is a “dial-up” type, you will need a phone jack in the garage.  (You should have a phone out there anyway.)  If you don’t have dial-up, then you probably have DSL or Cable provided internet.  If it’s convenient, you can run a length of Category V (aka “cat 5”) from your internet connection to the garage.  Patch cords are available at several locations here in New Bern.  A patch cord is just a length of cat 5 with a plug on both ends.  Another option is to go wireless.  You may need a wireless network card and a wireless router if you are not already set up for wireless access.  If you have any questions, Google has all the answers.  Or ask a friend or neighbor for assistance.