Abstract: An improved manhole service vehicle having an enclosed working space and an opening in its floor sized at least as large as a work man to permit him to service a manhole while the service vehicle shelters both the workman and the manhole. A laterally movable platform having a work opening is located over the floor opening to permit the final alignment of the work opening with the manhole after a metal detector located in a lid placed in the work opening permits the initial positioning of the service vehicle and the work opening over the manhole. A safety liner extending from the work opening into the manhole and a breakaway frame surrounding the floor opening help to ensure the safety of the workman should the service vehicle be hit by another vehicle. A side mounted hoist support within the vehicle permits placement of the safety liner into and out of the floor opening. Leveling jacks operable from within the service vehicle ensure the stability of the service vehicle once in position.