best text for self teaching ME ?

It'd take something like a ME Handbook to cover all the varied topics in Mech. Eng.

The Mechanical Engineering Reference Manual for the PE Exam by Lindeburg is a great all-encompassing reference, but it assumes that you already have a background (at least the basics) in ME. It may be what you are looking for. Here is a link to it:

or at amazon:

Because ME covers such a wide field of subjects you will not find ONE text to answer that quest. I do suggest you look at the following two texts for some help. Remember, a handbook is for reference only. Use Google to search for them by title.

"Engineering Fundamentals for Professional Engineers' Examinations", Lloyd M. Polentz. PE, ISBN

0-07-050380-X, McGraw-Hill Like the title states, it covers fundamentals

"Standard Handbook of Engineering Calculations", Tyler G. Hicks, ISBN0-07-028734-1, McGraw-Hill I have the first edition which had an error in almost every example. By confirming the example with other hand books I was able to learn quite a bit.

If you have some formal training in mechanical engineering these texts will help. They will not replace a formal education. If you are serious about becoming a mechanical engineer, go to college. In recent years, all the want ads that I read stipulate "degree required". There are no short cuts. A formal education is the foundation of your career. After that you learn from experience.

Jim Y

ISBN0-07-028734-1, McGraw-Hill

confirming the example

LOL! Now I want to get a copy of this book/edition!

Jay