Neighbors and favors.

[4570Man]

If I was doing I bigger job I would expect to at least be paid for fuel. My tractor burns between 1/2-3/4 gallon per hour, so 20 minutes of work cost virtually nothing.

 

[MikeS_in_GA]

When I was first starting out in a shop, my leadman told me I could borrow tools from him that I needed, but after 3 times you need to buy your own. Worked out great. I found out what would be used a lot and what wouldn't. Needless to say, I carried that on and tell our apprentices the same thing. 3 x's you buy your own.

That is a great idea.