You said it feels like an old-timer thing, but that's not it. I see it differently. That crust over mud situation is more common than you'd think, especially on old industrial lots that get a fresh layer of gravel. The chart can't tell you what's under the mat. I've seen plenty of lifts where the numbers were green but the ground started to weep water on the first swing. Relying only on the screen is how you get a surprise.

Local farms aren't always cheaper in my experience.

Totally get the relief angle, but what about the sudden emptiness? That huge weight is gone, but so is the daily purpose. After years of that pressure, finishing might feel like falling off a cliff into quiet. The structure of the job just vanishes. That relief could be mixed with a weird kind of loss nobody talks about.

Tried that and it changed the whole show for me.

What brand were those Harbor Freight ones, the Pittsburgh pro line? I've got a set of their long handle double box ends that have been absolute lifesavers for exhaust work.