First, thanks @petethepug for the vote of confidence. My girl was looking at me funny because when it happened, I just started laughing. What else could I do. I "Beat the Reeper".As it is, I'm only 13 years away from 70 and if I do a major job like a complete front end rebuild, I need a day of rest to recover.
Once I'm retired I hope my energy level actually increases but I'm not betting on it.
And, thank you for your service, Sir.
I never served but veterans like you are one of the reasons I continue to volunteer for Young Marines even though I no longer have a kid in the program.
@Grady_Wilson, thank you for saying so about my time working for Uncle Sam. I appreciate it. There are quite a few vets here.
I knew that when I retired in March of 2022 that I was still gonna turn wrenches at home for the extra money. I don't take on any major work like engine and transmission swaps. I don't take on all under dash work that comes my way, just not bendy enough. I charge between $80 to $100 an hour and typically have all the work I want to do. I set my times when I want. I have a 2010 Honda Pilot in my driveway right now for work tomorrow. I personally like most front end work.
Something that makes it easier is some various sizes of 4x8 and 3x6 foam mats that my girl found. They are like a roll out yoga mat. About 3/8" thick and have a diamond plate texture to them. If I am going to be under the vehicle I can use 1 mat or stack more and get softer. I don't lay on the concrete. I can roll my floor jack on them and jack a vehicle up and I can set jack stands on them. They are soft. They are made by Performance Tool. Inexpensive and comfortable. I have mine rolled up and stacked at back of my tool box.
