First..pop on over to the introduction section, an introduce yourself.

We like to know a little bout folks, and all that jazz.
Far as your questions, I suggest grabbing a comfy chair, sitting back an doing a lot of reading. The answers you seek are here, but up to you to do the footwork. Plenty of tips, tricks and advice abound. Just go where your interest is..whether it be car, electronic waste, regular metal, etc. There is a topic for each section an even one for the odd ball things like..cardboard/paper, plastic, etc.
Good luck to ya!
Sirscrapalot - What was the guy thinking who named a Bluejay a bluejay? Was he just like.."Hey it's blue an it reminds me of my cousin Jay!"
Bookmarks