My car has manual HVAC controls forcing me to adjust the air temperature and fan speed constantly on long drives. With the plan to automate the climate control, I first assembled a wiring harness to reverse engineer the communication protocols and am working on ordering components for a first in-car prototype. Check back often for updates!

Built from a neglected riding mower, this project transformed a rusted lawn machine into a high-speed, mechanically sound racer. Work included the iterative design of drive pulleys, custom idlers, a fixed differential, and a foot-operated throttle — all fabricated using basic tools at home and RIT's machine shop. Along the way, I refined skills in drivetrain design, welding, and problem-solving under tight constraints. The result: a reliable, belt-retaining, 38 mph mower that stole the podium at a community car show.

Diagnosed severe timing chain stretch on my 2013 VW CC using VW-specific scan tool data and service manual procedures. Conducted thorough pre-job research via technical manuals, forums, and videos to identify required tools, replacement parts, and cost-saving workarounds. Led a three-person team in a 10-hour replacement, executing precise positioning and tool selection to avoid engine damage on this interference motor. 

Purchased a 2007 Ford Ranger at auction with catastrophic timing chain failure, evidenced by a hole in the timing cover. Towed home, removed engine for the first time, and fully disassembled to the bare block. Overcame seized head stud by welding on a nut for extraction. Rebuilt with new piston rings, valves, springs, and all gaskets before reinstalling. Diagnosed zero compression on one cylinder, later traced to cam gear separation—ultimately scrapped the truck. Learned advanced engine teardown, rebuild, and diagnostic skills through a fully self-taught process. 

Bought a 2007 VW Passat on a whim during COVID to learn car repair, with minimal financial risk. Slowly tore down the top of the engine over a month, meticulously labeling hoses, couplers, and bolts to ensure proper reassembly. Replaced the head gasket, cleaned surfaces, and carefully reassembled—learning the challenges of timing belt alignment firsthand. Diagnosed and corrected coil pack connections and multiple timing attempts to get the engine running properly. Successfully drove the car, learned manual transmission, and sold it to recoup costs, gaining hands-on experience in engine teardown, reassembly, diagnostics, and problem-solving. 

After a hit-and-run left my 2003 Honda Accord damaged during a snowy winter, I sourced replacement parts from the junkyard and online, including a hood, headlights, fender, and bumper. I purchased a compressor and HVLP spray gun, then painted the components in my shed using propane heat for optimal curing. The old hood required stripping, and a tooling mishap left scratches that proved difficult to fully correct, even with low-grit sanding and high-build primer. This project taught me hands-on skills in bodywork, painting, and problem-solving under real-world constraints.