Bee-dubya-ell

Hopefully for the under-the-car stuff you are using proper ramps or jackstands. I've heard the same complaint from a number of people, a couple of whom were trying to be professional auto bangers. For many it's largely a matter of an extra couple of inches, so that you have a little more room to roll around - and justifiable real confidence in the stands you use.

I've also known quite a few who had no fear of sliding under a car that was on just "bumper jacks." At least three of them (that I knew fairly well) died at very young ages.

I've also heard a lot of complaints about shop owners/managers who expect their mechanics to get under stuff, but refuse to invest in suitable stands/lifts. (Motorcycle shops are notorious.) A little nervousness is a good thing sometimes.

John