Did they know how to write a good manual back then. You've got your soldering primer, guides on how to use test equipment... heck, you can probably apply some of the mechanical knowledge to fix your kitchen sink.
Most of the trouble-shooting techniques also apply to cars and computers. It's incredible how large a chunk of this manual is totally non-specific to Atari stuff but just general solid information on the technology used in those days and how to maintain it and repair it.
It says in the preface that 'the book' will not turn you into a technician but I've seen some 'technician course materials' that couldn't hold a candle to this one publication.
Not only that but it has detailed exploded diagrams of levers, trackballs, steering wheels, gear shifts etc. that include how and where the potentiometers and momentary switches are connected. This is a goldmine for anyone looking to home brew arcade controls.
It says in the preface that 'the book' will not turn you into a technician but I've seen some 'technician course materials' that couldn't hold a candle to this one publication.
Very nice to see this preserved.