Don't worry Deezel,

As the Safety Czar, I will try and reassure you. I have been working on my cars since I first had one, and believe me that car needed HELP! Many car's later, I have tryed to do as much on the car as I can, although I have never read computer codes before and am currently still trying to figure this out on the 500E.

I have always removed jewelry, wear long sleeve shirts buttoned at the wrist and tucked in, Mechanix gloves and safety glasses. The jack stands are brand new Craftsman as well as the 3 1/2 ton jack. Tire chocks are always used and it would truely be insane to work on the car on a unlevel surface unless there was no other choice (broke down). I'm on level ground though and since you mention it, I use two stands on either side, always with the jack under a central supporting structure.

I am going to either buy or make a probe for finding noises. The stethascope type with a long wand comes to mind, this is what I will use to poke around under there, I value my hands too much to stick them where they don't belong, ala drive shaft. Heat shouldn't be a problem as the car will only be running for about a minute or two.

I really like the shop suggestion as well, but the car is used during the week days and the shop is closed on the weekends.

I understand your concerns, that is for sure!!! Being in the military for 6 years and working on and around Helicopters (Electrician / Avionics Tech)), you saw some very dangerous and careless situation unfold before your very eyes.

Thanks again Deezel, and for all who have read this thread, please weigh your experience with the risks involved, getting under a car is very risky if you do not eliminate the risks or at least minimize as many as possible. This point is important!


Everyone have a Merry Christams and Happy New Year!!