There used to be a shop like this years ago in the City it was called Ufixit. Great place you took your own tools in, it was warm, you have to remember that when it is -40 working on your vehicle is no fun. Don't remember why they closed down. They didn't have any tools in there just a hoist. The place had about 12 stalls or so and was always at least half full

 

I say go for it! There is a guy in Cincinnati that is doing that. He has it as a club with an annual due. There are also monthly reservations of the shop for large projects. The best part is that since he started this as a club, he can introduce and educate new members on proper decorum around the shop.

Works well in Cincinnati.

Mike

 

I like the idea of the lockable stall with air drops, electric outlets and what not. I would definately use one every other week or so just to keep tabs on my truck. We have a gravel driveway and a 2 stall garage with cement floor. Dad doesnt really like it when he comes home and its raining/snowing or what ever, and i got a project laid out on the garage floor.

 

This was being done at a couple of shops in the Balto, MD area awhile back. Don't know if they are still around. Insurance was a killer back then. waivers and signoffs do not protect you in court. If someone scratches or hits another car who is responsible, etc. Tools WILL walk out the door, parts laid down will vanish, these were things that happened back then. It is a great idea but you won't be able to wtch everything, everywhere, all the time. I hope you could find a way to put it together I just want you to realize you might be peeing into the wind.

 

A close concept that works well is leasing stalls to techs. I almost went this route, but couldn't swing the rental payments.
Basically, I as a tech am my own business. I take phone calls, walk-ins, etc, do my own scheduling, pricing, parts ordering, and so on. Rental includes one bay (it was really almost two bays, so there was work space too), a lift, electricity, and the phone line. It was almost $1k a month though, so I just couldn't take a step like that. The place seemed to be doing well though.