I've done all the work on my car except for the springs and struts. I wanted to make sure those were done right so my car wouldn't kill me going down the freeway shortly afterwards. I've had some help from friends (none on this board, I don't think). I like doing my own work because of the sense of accomplishment when it's finally done. But, I've never really tackled anything big, just small modifications so far. But, like most of you are saying, I could see myself paying someone more knowledgable to do some of the big stuff. It just seems safer and smarter that way, as long as the person isn't a crook.