WElcome to the Foprum!
+1 for L H parey's book, also Tubal Cain's "Model Engineers Reference Book," a useful fund of information.
When you become more proficient and confidence, you will find a lot of useful books in the Workshop Practice series.i
If Maurice's health precludes his being able to help you, do join a local Model Engineering club.
Would the vale of Aylesbury Club be to far to travel (The first name that comes to mind ) I think that they meet at the Quainton Road. Google them (VAME )
Howard