[Jhoffa_]

Any input is greatly appreciated. I am a nervous wreck just thinking about this.

I am sure there's a dozen other questions I should have asked and forgot, so by all means feel free to chime in.

[Cagey]

"If you don't make mistakes, you aren't doing anything."
....James Casey (founder of UPS)

There's much to consider of course and the degree of fear would rise if you're married and have children. But, if your gut says you can do this, you'll know you can. I gave up a company car, insurance benefits, and a decent salary to go into business over 20 years ago and I starved for the first year and a half but it was well worth it for me.

I don't know if Harry still posts here, but he's an auto technician and might have some good insight.

[sistergoldenhair]

I was co-owner of a such a shop.
The general repairs provided steady income; tranny repairs were the gravy.
The rate of transmission repairs wasn't predictable.
When/if transmission repairs were plentiful some of the general repair could be postponed without damaging customer service.
During slow times, transmissions could be rebuilt and placed in stock for future use.
Good luck. If you're skilled at your craft you'll do fine.

[balrog666]

This is the best advice you will ever get, so I will just repeat it:

Never underestimate the power of "word of mouth". Make sure every customer is thrilled with everything you do. When you mess up, go out of your way to fix the problem and that customer will send you even more customers. If you send away an unhappy customer, you've really messed up. I know this is true because I get calls from people who are unhappy with my competion and they sure like to talk about it!

The policy of being too cautious is the greatest risk of all. - Nehru