We're always excited about Popular Mechanics' annual round-up of essential DIY know-how, even though looking over the list is a generally frustrating experience (we usually have the aptitude to handle about 7 percent of the skills they lay out). So for their 2008 list, we created the gallery below with a link for each entry that provides an instructional crash course. If you're like us, they should prove effective in bumping up your own percentage to the point where you're nearly equipped for low-level survival in the 'burbs.


100 Essential Skills Every Man Should Know

    1. Handle a blowout
    http://www.ehow.com/video_1863_change-flat-tire.html

    Getty Images

    2. Drive in snow
    http://www.ehow.com/how_2061016_drive-through-blizzard.html

    Jupiter Images

    3. Check trouble codes
    http://www.2carpros.com/car_repair_video/how_to_scan_your_car.htm

    Everett Collection

    4. Replace fan belt
    http://www.howtodothings.com/automotive/a3038-how-to-replace-a-fan-belt.html

    Robyn Beck, AFP / Getty Images

    5. Wax a car
    http://www.ehow.com/video_1327_wax-car.html

    AP

    6. Conquer an off-road obstacle
    http://www.wikihow.com/Go-Off-Roading-in-an-SUV

    Everett Collection

    7. Use a stick welder
    http://www.millerwelds.com/education/articles/articles16.html

    AP

    8. Hitch up a trailer
    http://www.edmunds.com/ownership/howto/articles/44921/article.html

    AP

    9. Jump start a car
    http://artofmanliness.com/2008/09/11/how-to-jump-start-a-car/

    Corbis

    10. Perform the Heimlich
    http://www.heimlichinstitute.org/page.php?id=34

    Charles Krupa, AP