All of you guys..been in my position:

One way to learn is to go out side and give it a try. Everyone starts some where. With today's technology, digital cameras/internet and some patience you would be surprised what you can do.
Had a shop teacher years ago that told us that as long as you can read pretty much anyone is capable of wrenching on there own ride. Might not necessarily be true with all of the high tech stuff of today but when it comes to these old cars....