Harbor Freight - what sucks and what doesn't list

[arceeguy]

Since we all like to tinker with mechanical things like our motorized bikes, and do it on a "low budget" - I thought it would be helpful to post which tools sold at HFT are good, and which ones are not.

I have found that most of the tools are OK if you are not a professional contractor/mechanic that depends on them every day - but there are some items that aren't worth the shipping from China. There's a reason why some have nicknamed them "horror freight". When I placed my first catalog order from them several years ago, they were "Harbor Freight Salvage". Where did the "salvage" go? I can risk $25 on a 4.5" grinder, but I wouldn't trust a HFT pacemaker!

Post your experiences both good and bad!

Also - let's not get into China bashing. It's all about getting cool tools cheap. For example, a HFT auto feed wire welder for 90 bucks can get a fellow MB enthusiast making custom frames where they wouldn't be able to afford the $500 Miller or Lincoln.


The Good-

Central Pneumatics 2HP pancake compressor. (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=95499) - I've had mine for several years now. It is oil lubricated with cast iron cylinder. Great for dusting things off with compressed air, and to run small air tools. I even run my IR 230C impact gun with it. (in short bursts, enough to knock off lug nuts with ease!) Can be had for $89 on sale.

4.5" Grinder (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=43471) - Had mine for about 5 years. It hasn't failed me yet! Gearbox is noisy, but my buddies Home Depot Ryobi is worse.

Bench Grinder w/flex shaft (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=43533) - I use this one a lot. I had to replace the brushes already! (it is about 3 years old)

3/8" butterfly impact wrench (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93100) - Great for automotive work. Knocking off oil drain plugs, caliper bolts, etc. Small enough to fit in most spots, powerful enough to break small fasteners (less than 15mm bolt head) loose.

Electronic Fly Swatter (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=40122) - yep, this one is silly, but they had a pile of them on sale for $2.99. Kills flies and yellow jackets with a hearty "SNAP" and a bright blue spark.

Engine cleaning gun (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=97014) - add compressed air with some detergent mix and end up with a sparkling clean engine. (cars, lawn mowers, etc.) Works great on alloy rims blasting away brake dust with ease. I do have to crank up my 220V compressor to run it continuously, as the little HFT compressor cannot keep up.

6.5 HP Horizontal Shaft Engine (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=96500) - we beat the living carp out of these Honda GX clones and they keep coming back for more. Disable the governor, and keep it under 5000RPM! The ones I've purchased had the "Central Machinery" brand and were made by Lifan in China - a large motorcycle/scooter manufacturer. "Greyhound" is a new trade name for HFT. I have one of their new 2.5HP engines, but haven't powered anything with it yet. (it is going on a rack mount motorized bike project)

The Bad -

1/2" drive impact extension set (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=2689) - The metal is too soft and considerable energy is lost in the extension and not applied to the nut or bolt you are trying to hammer off. My Craftsman impact extensions are hard enough to transfer the power, yet not shatter like a standard extension would. The HFT set is the one I will loan out. :devil2: (Golden Rule #1 - Never loan out tools you actually want back!)

Anything cordless. (and less than say $35) The chargers are most likely overnight trickle chargers, the batteries self discharge in a week, the motors are not too powerful.

1/2" Drive Electric Impact Wrench (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=31877) - Rated at 240 lb/ft, I doubt it exceeds 120 lb/ft. Very disappointed. Another one to loan out. :)

1/2" Drive Impact Wrench (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=95310) - This one is kind of a toss up. For 20 bucks did I really expect it to deliver 250 lb/ft of torque? It doesn't, but I do use it quite a bit. I'll pull out the Ingersoll Rand impact if this one doesn't have the balls to do the job.

[Happy Valley]

Good thread, positive input.

When was the last time that compressor was on sale @ $89? I'd like to watch for that,
it's the next item I really need to add to the shop.

[arceeguy]

It goes on sale for less than $100 quite often.
This unit with a larger tank (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=40400) is on sale for $99 at their store. Combine that with a 15% off coupon I got in the latest flyer and it is a real bargain. I'm going to pick one up tomorrow. It looks like many of their small compressors use similar direct drive oil lubricated pumps with cast iron cylinders. I have found that you really can't go by their "horsepower" ratings, as it seems their horses vary in size. I pay attention to the current draw on the motor label. More power used means a more powerful motor.

I don't have 220 in my garage, so when I need my "big compressor", I need to fire up a portable generator to run it. What a pain.

Hopefully, the new compressor will be able to keep up better. (the larger tank will certainly be a plus!)

I'll use the smaller one in my basement workshop for airbrushing and other small stuff.

I recommend that you sign up for their emails and flyers. Some friends of mine have been snapping up those 6.5HP engines for $99 (email special) and getting an extra 15% off with the flyer coupon!

[ocscully]

Good: 6in. Digital Caliper a Great buy @ 18.00 the usual sale price. Everybody should have one. It reads out in english decimal, english fractions, and metric.

ocscully

[bluegoatwoods]

Dont' forget the bicycle LED headlights and tail lights. About 1/2 what you would pay
the Beast of Bentonville. Inexpensive enought that you don't have to chew your cud over buying it.

I also buy my basic wrenches from HF. they're not great, but they're good enough. but you gotta watch out: they have many that have those little notches in the jaw. In theory it allows the wrench to ratchet back and forth like a socket. In practice they're the worst wrenches you could ever find.

[Pablo]

I shopped in CHINA and I am admitting it.....

I went to HF at lunch on Thursday for the $99 SALE 12 speed 10" BT drill press -AND They also had two 5 speed 9.5" Bench Top Drill presses, $79 and $89....man I couldn't decide, small seems more precise and holds smaller bits, etc, they all have the same motors - the 10" press has a bigger chuck........ I finally asked to get the bigger job out of the back .........of course, SOLD OUT. Dang. I was gonna walk. The guy actually took pity/didn't want to lose a sale and sold the $79 unit to me for $54.99 and then the dude at the counter gave me a 15% off coupon. $46.74 for a new drill press!!

$79 HF Drill Press: Drill Press under $50 (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=38119)

I must admit begrudgingly it's not THAT junky. The action is smooth, the motor quiet and strong. The chuck is true. Bore holes with ease.

Under $50? Sweet. (and yesterday I got a 20% off coupon, naturally)

[loquin]

They also have a 6HP Robins-Suburu engine (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=90655) for $250. Which is not a bad deal at all for a high quality engine.

About a year ago, I bought one of their 7 function digital multimeters (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=90899) on sale for $3. Worked great until last week, when I checked AC voltage when the meter was set for resistance... Oooops! :dunce: I was able to verify that there WAS 120 VAC on that wire...

[arceeguy]

I just picked up the same drill press as Paul (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=38119) (Pablo) for $44.95 with a coupon! I just set it up on my bench and the motor is quiet, the action is smooth, and the quality is pretty darned good!

I also picked up a couple of the 6.5 Honda knock off engines for $99 (with coupon) for some future karting and/or mini-bike projects. The new "Greyhound" brand 6.5's are made by Lifan (good quality) like the Central Machinery brand was.

[machiasmort]

I have no reason to bash the Pearl Harbor store at all... Although I try my hardest to by stuff made here, there's times you can't afford it. In regard to radioactivity in Worldwide metals, here's one of the links http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601109&sid=aKNgo0CVJg9s&refer=home

[ZnsaneRyder]

I have two of the CEN-TECH multimeters. One is the regular $3 sale one, the other one was $9 and has a back light, but they go on sale sometimes for $5! They look identical except for the button for the backlight. Next time, I'll get more of the backlighted ones!

These meters are REALLY GOOD for the price! They have batteries included! They have Transistor HFE (gain) check, and these meters are accurate!!!

A STEAL FOR A METER. Heck, if you mess the test leads up, just buy a whole new meter!

No more Radio Shack meters for me. If a $3 meter at HF can do more than the RS $50 meters, why even bother with RS? Heck, even the test leads at RS cost more than a HF meter.

THANK YOU Harbor Freight tools!

[lordoflightaz]

Arceeguy has the good and the bad, left out the ugly. I bought their solar panel kit, you get 3 solar panels, Power Center [a voltage regulator (DC-DC conversion) 2 12v light bulbs 8 output connections; a cig lighter type connection, 5v USB, 3,6,9, 12(2), + - battery and a digital display.] You also get a cable to connect up to various bayonet type connections for the 3,6,9 output. Got it on sale and with a 15% off coupon for under $200. I use it to power a wireless webcam, charge my cell phone The Kit (http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/itemdisplay/displayItem.do?itemid=90599&CategoryName=&SubCategoryName=) is fun.

I learned a bit from it. They make a shed cooler as well. You don't get a battery or an AC inverter, you need the battery to power things at night. They sell an AC converter if you want want.

When I had issues with the power center, they sent me a new one at no charge.

Make sure you sign up with them. They send 15 and 20% off coupons pretty regularly.

[arceeguy]

I have no reason to bash the Pearl Harbor store at all... Although I try my hardest to by stuff made here, there's times you can't afford it.......

Let me edumukate you a little -

The "Pearl Harbor store" you speak of does not sell tools. The Pearl Harbor Stores sell Mitsubishi cars (Mitsu made the planes that attacked us), Hondas, Toyotas, and Nissans. Best Pearl Harbor Buy sells Sony, Sanyo, Pioneer, Mitsubishi (again!), Panasonic, and other Japanese brands. China has not attacked us - ever. Americans used Chinese slaves to build the railroad system. Thousands died. Not one cent of reparations has ever been paid, nor have there been cries for affirmative action or other social justice for Chinese-Americans.

In any case, since you are a typical UAW worker, it is easy to see why the American auto industry is quickly going down the toilet. You've singlehandedly convinced me never to buy a new American car ever again, as I do not wish to support the UAW in any way, shape or form.

[insomniacshotrods]

I bought the drill press for 49 bucks and 4 sets of wrenchs on sell for 14 and 9 bucks work great and come with a handy carrier to keep em in order. Ive bought alot from them so far. Only when on sale do i buy stuff ,i think its fun to go in and find the bargains.

[machiasmort]

You speak nothing of the radio active metals used and this will become a serious problem in the future.

China is a very beautiful Country (rural areas), so beautiful almost cartoon like. It's people are top shelf. However, they treat their citizens like animals, specifically the labor force. If you don't want to be treated like that (in America), we can't compete with their price on labor.

Ron Gettelfinger was supposed to turn things around for the UAW. What most people on the outside don't realize is that the higher up (International) Union Reps are appointed and not elected. These appointees elected Gettelfinger. The individual Union members had no say in who the Grand POOBAh would be! Such appointments in the Union chain of command are very anti-Democratic. Union members of individual plants should at least have the right to pick their International Rep. but don't. Overall, for an appointee, Getelfinger has done a fine job, keeping in mind he must please the International Reps who appointed him.

If you want to support the spread of Communism, buy goods made in Communist Countries.

[machiasmort]

Having made this statement, where is my HT made?

This is where we agree, the Eco-weenies would rather see us support Communism than create another American job.

[arceeguy]

You speak nothing of the radio active metals used and this will become a serious problem in the future.......

And what does this have to do with Harbor Freight Tools? Same goes for your claims of spreading communism. When I buy stuff from HFT, I am supporting a local business that employs local people. I am also supporting the capitalist economy of China, not endorsing their authoritarian government. I will also not buy an automobile assembled at a UAW plant because I do not wish to support labor unions. This is my choice. If you don't want to buy products made in China, that is yours. I just wanted to point out your erroneous Pearl Harbor reference.

Back on topic - I noticed that in the latest flyer, they are selling this small gas generator (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=66619) for $99 on sale. While I do not own the Chicago Electric version of this generator, I bought the Pep Boys branded generator a couple of year ago. It is identical to the HFT generator, and I have had good luck with mine. It has a cast iron cylinder for durability, and it is fairly quiet considering it is a two stroke.

[srdavo]

I have one of their new 2.5HP engines, but haven't powered anything with it yet. (it is going on a rack mount motorized bike project)

these are on sale at Joplin's HF, for $89.99 !! I gotta have one. Maybe tomorrow?

do you know about how much it weighs?

[arceeguy]

these are on sale at Joplin's HF, for $89.99 !! I gotta have one. Maybe tomorrow?

do you know about how much it weighs?

It is roughly 23 pounds.
For my project, I picked up a centrifugal clutch at Tractor Supply Co., and I am making a rack from 12 gauge steel. A buddy of mine has a sheet metal brake (from HFT!) and said that he can make a "U channel" chassis pretty easily.

[seanhan]

they also have some cool r/c airplanes real cheap !!!!

[uncle_punk13]

Let's keep our politics outta this one okay guys? I'm having a hard time biting my anti-union pro-american tounge here... Play nice. This is about cheap tools for the motored biker hobbyist.
Thanks,
Rif
(Anti-Union) Aerospace Machinist

[lordoflightaz]

Got a 20% off coupon today!!! Good thru the weekend. Yipee!!

[srdavo]

these are on sale at Joplin's HF, for $89.99 !! I gotta have one. Maybe tomorrow?

do you know about how much it weighs?

Can ANYONE give me a ride to HFT ? I'll buy lunch at CC's Pizza.

Joplin, Mo....... lmao

[Pablo]

Just got home from a date with the wife. Of course I had my printed out 20% HF coupon. I just bought a few odd and ends, small tools, and an ignition HT spark checker!

Feel free to borrow it. :jester:

[arceeguy]

So I'm guessing that spark checker should go in the "toilet list" as a flushable product?

[Pablo]

So I'm guessing that spark checker should go in the "toilet list" as a flushable product?

I haven't tried it yet!!

[arceeguy]

OK, I usually only loan out my junky tools - that's what I thought you meant by "Feel free to borrow it".

[biken stins]

There safty wire pliers are great. Have had it 5+ yrs no problems. Eve the cutter is still sharp. Think of most there stuff as use and toss but was surprised looking around the shop. Lots here that aint tossed yet.

[HoughMade]

I got the following from HF:

3/8" click torque wrench- used much, verified against another as accurate several times- well made, works great.

60 piece tap and die set, SAE and metric- indispensible in my bike project- again, works well, no problems.

tubing bender- not great, but usable

Pop riveter- works as well as any I have ever used made by any manufacturer

standard crow bar...tough to screw that up- works great

Rotary tool, Dremel knock off- horrible- tossed it. No power, accessories sucked.

standard sandpaper- didn't cut well new and lost effectiveness faster than anything I have ever seen- will never buy again

hole saw set- works well on styrofoam...and not much else- a $4.95 risk, oh well

[Pablo]

I use their battery charger and on sale NiMH and NiCd batteries. Low cost, works fine. The "D" cells are pretty lame though. They aren't a full cell!

[arceeguy]

.....The "D" cells are pretty lame though. They aren't a full cell!

This is a common practice. Most "C" and "D" cells have "SC" cells in them. I use the Sanyo eneloop system, and you literally slide a "AA" cell into a C or D sized sleeve. You can also charge the Sanyo cells and let them sit for months before using, they will not self-discharge. This was why I hated rechargeables - because they were always pretty much dead and requiring a charge when you needed them.

[Pablo]

I know what you mean about rechargeables.

Some more items that are worthy:

Small vacuum adapter (for PC's, small tools, etc) - we got a new vacuum and this sucker will pull chrome off
Picker upper thingymagoober (grabs the stuff that falls behind the washer and dryer) - extended hand
Bolt Cutter
Blister pack of wire ties (seems like they are good quality at an exceptional price)
Pack of 4 micro fiber cloths

There are more……can't remember.

[arceeguy]

Damm!

Just got a flyer and the 38119 Drill Press (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=38119) is $39.95 with a coupon! I thought that the $44.95 I paid was a bargain.

[Pablo]

WOWSER that is SUPERB!!

[ZnsaneRyder]

Another vote here for the 6.5HP engines they sell. Been riding strong with my engine since day one, several thousand miles, and I've banged it up a bit, and still it runs good as new! Why get a Briggs & Stratton when the HF engines are SO much better, and much easier to take apart and work on!

I also got several pliers, and cutters, and wire strippers, and they ALL work great. I always go to HF before walking into a Home Depot or Lowe's!

[lordoflightaz]

I was at Harbor Freight yesterday. "500 Lb. Capacity Aluminum Cargo Carrier" is on sale for around $50 so is "Excess Cargo Carrier" Sure they go on a trailer hitch, but I have a feeling that with an axle they would make great bike trailer, all you need is a couple tires, axle, hitch, and some imagination. I almost bought one. Only weighs 27 lbs.

[insomniacshotrods]

I bought the stand up bead blaster cabinet on sale for $219.00 and it really works great it works better than my buddies 750 snapon brand just because of the location of the suction tube its in the middle of the sand trap on mine and on his its over to the left of the tank and all the sand seems to blow over to the right after blasting its a real pain to use. I couldnt be happier and i also bought the 13 drawer roll around tool box and it is great for the money on sale at $156. NOw ive got all my tools organized and its nice to know where they are when i need it.

[Pablo]

That is great!! This is turning into a very nice, useful thread.

I've been using my drill press for several months now for all sorts of "production" stuff. If anything, it's getting better. I like the little pup!

[ZnsaneRyder]

If you have a regular 1/8" Dremel, you can get a package of three 1-1/2 fiber-reinforced discs that are 1/4 bigger than Dremel-Brand, they last longer, and are stronger, and you always get a new shaft with them to mount the discs for $5. Beats having to buy those pieces separately.

[eastwoodo4]

i bought a bicycle muli tool from there.last one on the rack.6 bucks.gots a tire spoon,chain break,2 spoke wrenches and a bunch of allen heads some philips heads and some flat heads.pretty cool!

[fm2200]

Harbor Freight has a little bicycle headlight takes 3 AAA batts lasts 60-70 hours the light has 3 leds bright even in the daylight hours (in ny law says light must be on) I would use it even if were not the law, cars notice you a lot better. $6 and the batteries do last, mounts right on handlebars.good price better than walmart or target

[fm2200]

I did not see the bike multi tool will have to look harder at HF, thanks eastwood4

[vegaspaddy]

heading down to hf on wednesday as i need to buy a troque wrench,

anybody own the bike stand or repair stand, $30 price amazing if it can handle our bikes...

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=98984
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=98579

[lordoflightaz]

I did not see the bike multi tool will have to look harder at HF, thanks eastwood4

Its on sale or they have a coupon this week for it.

[Junster]

Fiber reinforced "dremel sized" cutoff disks are great for alot of things. They can be a lil spendy if you use alot of them. If I'm out I use worn 4" disks, break them into 4 pieces. Drill a arbor hole in the middle, put on your safety glasses, long sleeves, and gloves. Then carefully cut on a old piece of thick steel. It just takes a few seconds to true them out round. If your out of the little ones this really works.

[fetor56]

Fiber reinforced "dremel sized" cutoff disks are great for alot of things. They can be a lil spendy if you use alot of them. If I'm out I use worn 4" disks, break them into 4 pieces. Drill a arbor hole in the middle, put on your safety glasses, long sleeves, and gloves. Then carefully cut on a old piece of thick steel. It just takes a few seconds to true them out round. If your out of the little ones this really works.
Good tip man....the proper Dremel ones are quite expensive & it's cheaper & better to recycle.

[machiasmort]

What sucks is having to choose between a quart of milk and cheap toilet paper to wipe my a$$ with after working 80hrs a week for $3 an hr.

Thank goodness for Harbor frieght tho, I can still afford tools because the Chinese make as much an hr as I do now that my unemployment ran out!

How are thier tarps guy's, do they hold up? I'll be needing a place to stay soon.

[davidsis]

LOL, about the tarps man sorry to hear about your job stuff. Speaking of camping has anyone ever bought one of those big rambo knifes with the compas in the handle and the fishing line it is huge and only like $10.

[crazeehorse]

this is one of the handiest tools i have, i love it, these used to cost 400 - 500 dollars.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=45690

[lordoflightaz]

I hope this never goes on sale http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=66882 or I will just have to see if it can be mounted on a bike.

[loquin]

My bike doesn't float too well...:confused:

[Zev0]

My bike doesn't float too well...:confused:

Put more air in your tires Lou. :grin5:

[Nuttsy]

Well, Finally all the planets are in alignment. HF has the wire feed welder on sale AND they sent me a 20% off coupon today!
Question is: 90amp welder...worth $80?
Just need to do some occasional repairs and some frame mods and such.
I know the duty cycle is low but I wouldn't be using it for bridge construction. Just hobby stuff.
WC

[Pablo]

Please let us know how the welder works out!!

[Nuttsy]

Please let us know how the welder works out!!

LOL
That's what I'm looking to find out here! hahaha
But if I do get it, and I think I will, I'll be sure to report back here. It's been a toss-up tho between the small bench top drill press and the welder.

[crazeehorse]

i think you will be pleased. the flux core welders don't make quite as pretty a weld as one that uses sheilding gas, but they do pretty well. my neighbor used to have a similar welder from harbor freight, & he welded everything with it. i say go for it. i don't think you will ever beat that price.

[fm2200]

before you buy it ask them if you can return it if your not satisfied. If they agree your set

[lordoflightaz]

before you buy it ask them if you can return it if your not satisfied. If they agree your set

We are talking about Harbor Freight. I'm sure they will take it back.

I don't know how to weld, my neighbor has that welder, he says it works, the welds are not pretty.

[Youngbird]

I like mine especially with my new auto darkening helmet:53:

[machiasmort]

I can gas weld and stick (arc) weld, forget mig... I'm far from an expert but it's always been my understanding that for bikes, you want to braze because your dealing with alloyed metals. I'm sure somebody will know more than I on this.

Don't want to see anybody get hurt!

[arceeguy]

Marty - if you can gas and stick weld, a MIG would be easy for you!

Another good tool from HFT is this micro engraving pen. (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=98227)

I use mine to engrave a serial number in the block of the HT engines I sell.

[Smokey]

I have this welder and use it with flux-core wire so that I don't have to worry about running out og gas. Flux-core is very much more dirty that regular Gas shield welding and you have to remember this when you have to make a second pass. Always make sure that you get in there and clean the first pass REAL well, if you leave **** in there to be covered up and mixed into the weld, that is what you will end up with, a **** weld.
I use mine as a method to tack things into place, where I can permanitly weld the joint later, with a better system like my Lincoln stick or one of the Miller MIGs at work. I gusee that I will have to figure out another MIG system now as I have just been laied off until the trucking thing gets better.
As for HFT and others like them, (Tractor Supply, Notrhern Tools), for the most part they are good tools for the price and light home use. I have a shop with a ton of tools, many of them from HFT. These are the tools that I may only use a few times a year and would not have them if I had to pay the Snap-on or Chraftsman price. That is just the fact of the matter and take that into consideration when I use them. Also, remember on many of the tools that HFT sells, they offer 100% replacement, Sears dosen't even do that anymore.

[the willi]

fh tools i have used and abused beyond any notice! they work for my crew when i was drilling waterwell they have been in the mud etc.

[spitball]

anyone have any luck with this one?


http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=99736

[Nuttsy]

Well, the Gods have smiled upon me (for a freaking change)
I went to HF for my welder, 20% coupon in hand, and LO, that welder was on special for $89!!!!!! NOT the $99 advertised! I even considered the $12 ext. warranty...but, NAH!
If it Fails...I'll eat the cost...I guess...if I have to. (Hmmmm. sounds almost like some kind of pledge/prayer)
SO, Anyway, 20% off that and I'm a happy scooter!
The rest of this week will be adding a 20amp outlet in the G'rage and playing with my new toy.
WC

[loquin]

I bought the 24 inch aluminum caliper (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=96509) the other day... Seems to be well built. measures up to 24 inches, at 1/128th inch precision. I got a chuckle with their description though - "...measuring bumper heights..."

WHY would you need to measure a bumper height to the nearest 128th of an inch? :goofy:

[arceeguy]

......WHY would you need to measure a bumper height to the nearest 128th of an inch? :goofy:

You sir, obviously have NOT been pulled over by the New Jersey State Police in a (slightly) lifted truck! :jester:

Did it come with some yak fat (chinese vasoline) for those encounters with the police? :pinch:

[cspaur13]

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=97964
i know some of you have this and like it. but is it worth my time. has any1 had a problem with it. for the price its ideal for putting on a bike.
thanks,
cody.

p.s. and has any1 frame mounted it yet

[Cody Broken]

My 2 pennies: Harbor Freight sells many marginal quality items, but they sell them so **** cheap who cares? Also HFT is a boon for the beginner DIY'er, or someone looking to try something new. Why buy the top of the line stuff for something you may only do once, or occasionally?

Furthermore, at HFT you can buy a 3/4" drive socket wrench set for half what you would pay for a 3/8" Craftsman socket wrench set. So you can afford to buy a massive breaker bar just to bust loose one bolt. Who cares if you never use it again?

In short, I love Harbor Freight Tools.

[machiasmort]

Obviously a China man did somewhere along the line!
"been pulled over by the New Jersey State Police in a (slightly) lifted truck?"
LOL!

Not throwing a dark shadow on this thread at all because I own some HF tools.

Has anybody ever checked for radioactivity?

[Pablo]

.

Has anybody ever checked for radioactivity?

You have a point. When I sleep with my tools I keep them away from my nether regions.

[lordoflightaz]

I belive that HF sells a geiger counter.

I just bought the air compressor last week, nice. Now I have to wait for various air tools to be on sale. Loooks like I get the air hose this week. I can't wait for the day that I have to take my new Instep Prowler up to HF.

I think the quality at HF is often better than that stuff at Walmart or the junk tools at Checker (O'Reilly, how the heck am I going used to calling it O'Reilly)

FYI if you get coupons from HF in email make sure you click on them, 'cause they usually have a second surprise coupon when you open the coupon link up.

[Pablo]

Anyone try this:60" SOLID OAK WORKBENCH $149 ON SALE (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93454)

I can hardly buy junk lumber for that price, let alone the time. I'm curious if it feels solid?? Quality? We could (for sure) use another bench and flat space in the shop.

[Pablo]

Hmm:

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=65797

????

[DetonatorTuning]

actually a good deal and handy if you have smaller item you wish to photograph in isolation and optimum lighting.

these are popular with crafters of all kinds.

steve

[Pablo]

Darn it. They didn't have either item in stock. I got a 14" dust pan and some socket adapters.

[lordoflightaz]

You're depressing me. I went there the other day and couldn't get what I wanted. Ended up getting something at WalMart. Today I went to Fry Electronics and couldn't get what I wanted there either,

Now I just spent 2 hours doing free tech support for my sister-in-law's stepfather. Cox McAfee SW "just say no".

I think I will go sit out in the garage and talk to my bikes.

[Porkchop]

Not bragging, but I have way more stuff from HF than any oine person has posted as having. Things from as little as $1.00 on up to power tools. I have a lot of their cheap pneumatic tools. Around here, we call it the disposable tool store. The only thing I recall breaking was a 3/8" torque wrench. And I don't think it really broke. I think the screws that hold the ratchet mechanism in place worked loose. I don't care for most of their battery powered tools. but one I love is their battery powered 3/8" drive impact wrench. I use it a lot for driving anchors in masonry, and for long wood screws in hard wood. And ocassionally you can get good deals on name brand stuff there. I recently bought a hitch mounted bike rack for $30.00. Same rack, made in China, with a different name on it sells for $110.00 at Walmart.
Not getting political here, but where can you buy American made products ? If we're going to be forced to by China made stuff, why go to a name brand department store and pay 3 or 4 times the price of Harbor Fright's ? I bet Walmart sells more China stuff than Harbor Freight !

[machiasmort]

Pork Chop

"Not getting political here, but where can you buy American made products ? If we're going to be forced to by China made stuff, why go to a name brand department store and pay 3 or 4 times the price of Harbor Fright's ? I bet Walmart sells more China stuff than Harbor Freight !"

That's my point Brother, I lost my job like many other American's to outsourcing. Big Brother says we're creating new ones. Sure they are, quoting George W. "the one's Americans don't want"... Now if I can make it at home, I will spend all day before I spend 99 cents at one of those stores. Certainly there are some things that are impratical to do so tho.

[fasteddy]

My brother and I went to Wal-Mart the other day since it's all there is in our area.
While we wandered around we checked where things were made. Seems China isn't the only place they source thier goods. Any where that labour is paid in pennies per hour is fair game.
The really bad part is that when you see a North American company name, the bet is it says on the box,in fine print "contents made in some where other than North America because we could".

Steve.

[eastwoodo4]

anyone tried one of these?i was wondering if i could make decent spindles with one of these? http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/05900-05999/05980.gif on another note.i wish i woulda bought this http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/65000-65099/65053.gif in the store when i seen it for around 40.was the last one but i past it up.now i havent seen them in the store for ever and there 80 bucks now.shioooot!

[blime81]

More GOOD:

Lock Tite: Best thing you can buy there is the little squeeze bottles of it for a buck or so. I use blue on just about everything (especially those pesky bolts on HTs)! Keep a bottle in every tool box, glovebox, camper, boat etc.

15 gal or so Compressor: It works great, fill quick and keeps its pressure. A little loud but not too bad.

Angle Grinder: $10 on sale. I run flap wheels on it to clean up after grinding with my big expensive non HF angle grinder. Beats changing wheels. I'd buy another.

Central Machine Bench Grinder: I bought one about 5 or so years ago with the goose neck light. The guards are junk but the grinder is great. The light is nice and I think they are still about $30 or so. Gonna buy another so I don't have to swap wheels.

Vacuum Test Set: Accurate, comes in a decent case and has all the little fittings, plugs etc you need. Very useful in timing and tuning. A must have if you have a carbed motor.

Big Rubber Tire Flatbed Wagon: Very useful in the yard and super strong. Also nice for the outdoors. Throw on your chairs, fishing gear, coolers etc etc. I have a big block chevy sitting on it now. (need to get a HF engine stand)

Small Oxy/Act Torch set: This thing is perfect if you just need to do project welding jobs, cutting, brazing etc. Lots of tips available. Perfect for when you need to weld with no electricty, cutting out parts or for brazing bike frames. Only bad thing is you run out of gas quickly due to small size tanks but it goes anyplace and as long as you aren't cutting i beams for days you'll be fine.

The BAD:

Handtools: A waste of money. Untempered, soft steel. Will fail the minute you put any backside into it. I bought someone a set (over 140ish tools) for Xmas last year and they were the Stanley brand from Wallymart. Good quality, nice case and only a little more than HF. As for me I'll save my pennies for hand tools I can pass on. Matco, Mac, Snap on, Craftsman, etc. All of those will replace your hand tools also.

Handheld Sand Blaster: It will leak sand everywhere and its range of adjustment seems to only have 2 settings "is this thing on" and "I think a sand grenade just went off". Though I must say it has gotten a few jobs done for me but I will buy a better one next time I have any blasting to do.

Pittman arm puller: Attached to pittman arm on Jeep and it broke while I was snugging down with hand tools!

Hole Saw Set: Already mentioned but these are a joke. Good for making circle scratches in plywood. I am now using them for small peices of scrap for welding etc.

110v Stick Welder: Junk junk junk. I did not buy this, but tried in vain to weld up a set of glass packs for a friend with one. Worthless duty cycle, heat control was just a knob that had no effect. Went home, got Lincoln and did it right. Save your pennies for a Lincoln or Miller or build you own welder using microwave transformers (thats free BTW and saves them from the land fill) Google: "microwave transformer welder" FYI you can build one as a 220 or 110.

[lordoflightaz]

I had an ancient cheep analog multimeter. It finally gave up. I got a HF multimeter to replace it. Sure it is digital and sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't Set it to resistance and touch red to black and I get a "1", turn it off, turn it on, and try again I get .0xx Seem like half the time it works. Makes it hard to decide if it is me or the meter. I think I might spend more than $4 and buy something that actually works.

I did get a neato solar battery charger the othe day just for fun.

[jalexl]

this is one of the handiest tools i have, i love it, these used to cost 400 - 500 dollars.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=45690

May I ask what you use your spot welder for? You mentioned how handy it was. PLus do you prefer the 220v over the 120v. It is rated to weld an additional 1/16th of an in.

[Pablo]

Anyone try this:60" SOLID OAK WORKBENCH $149 ON SALE (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93454)

I can hardly buy junk lumber for that price, let alone the time. I'm curious if it feels solid?? Quality? We could (for sure) use another bench and flat space in the shop.

Dang - still no stock.........

[machiasmort]

east wood,

There are entire websites devoted to turnning HF equiptment (mills) ect. into working CNC machines. Quality maybe not as good as USA but Will suit your purpose if under
.070 is requried!

[loquin]

I used the cheap digital multimeter for a year or so, until I checked the 120V line voltage, with it still set on resistance ... :oo2ps: That sure made a funny popping sound:shout: ... :whistling:

I picked up another one today - they're on sale for $2.99 for a couple of weeks. The harbor freight disposo-meter

[Pablo]

Shoot - hard to get the smoke back in once it gets out.

I got the $149 workbench. For the ease and the money, it's actually pretty sturdy. The finish is fine, fit not bad - everything lined up. The built in wood vise is a nice extra,

I won't be using it for diesel truck engine rebuilding but it holds the small drill press with plenty of room to spare. The drawers are a little cheese (press board cheese), but I just need a flat surface, yet stronger than a table. If you have the time and access to low cost lumber, build your own. I hardly have time to cut a 2X4 lately so, this puppy fit the bill.

I bought some other stuff, I'll review it later.

[Pablo]

I got the new style fold lock knife. Very nice, I really like the push button blade changing.

[Pablo]

One thing I should mention on the bench - you can follow the simple instructions and they don't seem to be too much Chenglish. Most assembly is done with the top down. But I didn't want to do most of the assembly with the bench upside down and then flip it and move it (by myself) into the tight "U" shaped spot with my other tables. So I deviated from the instructions and built it in-situ. It's a bit more hassle putting the screws in from underneath, but well worth it when complete. If you have space and a helper, just follow the instructions.

One of the drawer handle captive nuts came out. I glued it back in place and it's holding fine. I did a lot of work on it the last 3 days and love it.

[give me vtec]

GOOD:

oil filter removal tool kit... works great, saves my wrist and it was cheap. Came with like 3 or 4 different sizes for standard 1/4 ratchet, so far have used it on honda and mopar factory filters.

$130, 12 ton Shop press... worth its weight in gold. Spent $175 having a shop remove the rubber from a single blown mitsubishi 4g63 mount, I was stunned and went and bought this that weekend... cant tell you how many I have removed since saving hundreds in labor (at that rate)

BAD:

$10 creeper.... worked for about a month then the front wheel came of along with the threads that held it on. Purchased a craftsman, MORE EXPENSIVE BUT DEFINITLY WORTH IT.

[angrysamoan]

Since we all like to tinker with mechanical things like our motorized bikes, and do it on a "low budget" - I thought it would be helpful to post which tools sold at HFT are good, and which ones are not.

I have found that most of the tools are OK if you are not a professional contractor/mechanic that depends on them every day - but there are some items that aren't worth the shipping from China. There's a reason why some have nicknamed them "horror freight". When I placed my first catalog order from them several years ago, they were "Harbor Freight Salvage". Where did the "salvage" go? I can risk $25 on a 4.5" grinder, but I wouldn't trust a HFT pacemaker!

Post your experiences both good and bad!

Also - let's not get into China bashing. It's all about getting cool tools cheap. For example, a HFT auto feed wire welder for 90 bucks can get a fellow MB enthusiast making custom frames where they wouldn't be able to afford the $500 Miller or Lincoln.


The Good-

Central Pneumatics 2HP pancake compressor. (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=95499) - I've had mine for several years now. It is oil lubricated with cast iron cylinder. Great for dusting things off with compressed air, and to run small air tools. I even run my IR 230C impact gun with it. (in short bursts, enough to knock off lug nuts with ease!) Can be had for $89 on sale.

4.5" Grinder (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=43471) - Had mine for about 5 years. It hasn't failed me yet! Gearbox is noisy, but my buddies Home Depot Ryobi is worse.

Bench Grinder w/flex shaft (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=43533) - I use this one a lot. I had to replace the brushes already! (it is about 3 years old)

3/8" butterfly impact wrench (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93100) - Great for automotive work. Knocking off oil drain plugs, caliper bolts, etc. Small enough to fit in most spots, powerful enough to break small fasteners (less than 15mm bolt head) loose.

Electronic Fly Swatter (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=40122) - yep, this one is silly, but they had a pile of them on sale for $2.99. Kills flies and yellow jackets with a hearty "SNAP" and a bright blue spark.

Engine cleaning gun (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=97014) - add compressed air with some detergent mix and end up with a sparkling clean engine. (cars, lawn mowers, etc.) Works great on alloy rims blasting away brake dust with ease. I do have to crank up my 220V compressor to run it continuously, as the little HFT compressor cannot keep up.

6.5 HP Horizontal Shaft Engine (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=96500) - we beat the living carp out of these Honda GX clones and they keep coming back for more. Disable the governor, and keep it under 5000RPM! The ones I've purchased had the "Central Machinery" brand and were made by Lifan in China - a large motorcycle/scooter manufacturer. "Greyhound" is a new trade name for HFT. I have one of their new 2.5HP engines, but haven't powered anything with it yet. (it is going on a rack mount motorized bike project)

The Bad -

1/2" drive impact extension set (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=2689) - The metal is too soft and considerable energy is lost in the extension and not applied to the nut or bolt you are trying to hammer off. My Craftsman impact extensions are hard enough to transfer the power, yet not shatter like a standard extension would. The HFT set is the one I will loan out. :devil2: (Golden Rule #1 - Never loan out tools you actually want back!)

Anything cordless. (and less than say $35) The chargers are most likely overnight trickle chargers, the batteries self discharge in a week, the motors are not too powerful.

1/2" Drive Electric Impact Wrench (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=31877) - Rated at 240 lb/ft, I doubt it exceeds 120 lb/ft. Very disappointed. Another one to loan out. :)

1/2" Drive Impact Wrench (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=95310) - This one is kind of a toss up. For 20 bucks did I really expect it to deliver 250 lb/ft of torque? It doesn't, but I do use it quite a bit. I'll pull out the Ingersoll Rand impact if this one doesn't have the balls to do the job.
Your "Good and bad" Headings are pretty much right on the money! I've been a licensed general contractor since 1994, and I've bought alot of stuff from there. Compressors, nailguns {all types}, hand tools, even remote control airplanes, etc. Anything that brakes, I bring back. All in all, pretty inexpensive and 15 minutes from my house.Great for zip ties, heat shields, schrink wrap- you get the picture. I'm totally against Communist China, but I let our scandalous Government deal with trade embargoes {none}. Good Luck

[wildwestrider]

Dang - still no stock.........

Paul, seems to me that Sams club and Costco both have a really nice hardwood butcher block work bench mounted on a stainless steel base about $100-$150 I think.

[Pablo]

The Costco and Sam's club versions are over $200 and the base isn't stainless. And even though they are fairly heavy, they are a bit wobbly. Although the Sam's club $203 table is pretty nice. If you doubt me, check their web sites. Several of those are larger, but the space I have is perfect for the HF table. $149 is a good price. Anyway some people think the legs look small on the HF table, but they are pretty sturdy.

[wildwestrider]

About 20 years ago....I was in a condo with a one car garage and needed workspace and storage space along one wall to complete my Austin Healey restoration. I ended up buying the red and black workbenches (2) with the metal drawer bases and partical board tops. I covered the tops with a Dark Gray/tweed look carpet similar to what used to come in German cars.......I think it was hall runner carpet from Home depot. It has proven to be the perfect solution all these years. The tweed carpet still looks good after all these years of wrenching on various motorcycles and cars. Hides grease and dirt beautifully and has a nice cusion to it when I drop something on to the workbench surface. I have about 12 feet of linear workspace and can store an amazing amount of stuff underneath. In addition, I have the Sams club Stainless Steel mechanics tool chest for all my tools,... then along another wall in my current garage, I have 4 of those chrome metro style rolling shelf units each one set up for 3 interior shelves and the top shelf. I put 3 of the translucent (not quite clear) bi-fold tubs from sams on each shelf----I think I have about 24 of those.....they hold all my detailing supplies, high pressure lubricants, air tools, spray paints, touch up paints, HVLP sprayer, Spare Motorcycle parts, bicycle parts, car parts etc. Also have a rolling butcher block work bench that I never use for anything but a storage shelf.......may have to let it go to free up space in the garage for more motorcycles and motorized bicycles.

Brian

The Costco and Sam's club versions are over $200 and the base isn't stainless. And even though they are fairly heavy, they are a bit wobbly. Although the Sam's club $203 table is pretty nice. If you doubt me, check their web sites. Several of those are larger, but the space I have is perfect for the HF table. $149 is a good price. Anyway some people think the legs look small on the HF table, but they are pretty sturdy.

[Pablo]

I bought the tool cart ITEM 47418 for $69 (one day special, sale price is $89, web $119). Took all my small frequent use tools and put them in the drawers, put all the stuff from the same table above and below. Voila! Cleared an entire assembly table. Awesome.

Cart is sturdy and a decent value. Locking tool drawers aren't bad. Casters are heavy duty.

What is no good is the assembly manual. Just put it together using your instincts - it's easy. Even if you are Ozzy, have an IQ of 7, no mechanical ability and on drugs, you really can't do worse than the manual. If you follow that smelly piece of toilet paper, they have you put the top tray in last - well guess what, since they changed the design and both sides are the same height, you won't be able to install the tray! Duh........

[machiasmort]

"you really can't do worse than the manual. If you follow that smelly piece of toilet paper,"

Some of us just can't get past smelling pamphlets after that experience with the 1970's PlayBoy scratch and sniff edition. Thank Heaven's at least I know I'm normal now.

[lordoflightaz]

All these good things to buy.

Lets not forget what sucks. Hose Clamps! They make the bolts that come with China Girl engines look strong. Really any of the screws or bolts are just bad, too.

[Pablo]

Never seen hose clamps at Harbor Freight. Yeah - I think I'll use some for my oil system on my $300,000 Ferrari!

[Pablo]

Anyone own the 6" buffer? ITEM 94393

It's on sale for $39, or is better to wait for the 8" buffer to go on sale?

[lordoflightaz]

More bad. Carbide drill bits. They are good once, then good for nothing.

[wildwestrider]

I tried their $45 variable speed buffer, the gear drive sounded awfully loud, so returned it.............plus,....I have never learned how to buff.....I am really bad at it.

I previously had the Black and Decker Pro variable speed buffer.....but it and thousands of dollars of other tools were stolen from me at public storage. DO NOT ever store anything in public storage.............the managers are often in cahoots with crooks..............I bought the insurance and the company told me............no coverage for theft without signs of forced entry.................got totally screwed.


Anyone own the 6" buffer? ITEM 94393

It's on sale for $39, or is better to wait for the 8" buffer to go on sale?

[Pablo]

That does suck.

[machiasmort]

I'd bust a lock in my basement and say there!

Buffing is easy, stay away from edges because they burn quick! I can't do it anymore with my back. If your a beginer use the 6" but a bigger wheel is a must for professional use! Makita makes a nice variable speed for under $100

[wildwestrider]

I used my 3.5 " HF Belt sander and palm (random orbital ) sanders today,...both good quality for the price. Just built a Harbor freight folding trailer for motorcycle hauling.....like it.....and so convenient...folds against the wall.

Also have Had HF

Compressor,
bench grinder with stand
ball peen hammers
hammer drill
Bench belt and disc sander
multimeters
fish tape
tape measure
lawn sprinkler timers
tire patch/plug kits
hex head sockets
T wrenches Ball and normal...metric
shrink wrap
gas welding gauges, tips and hose kit
battery operated reversible drill/driver
rechargeable 1million candle power spot lamp
nitrile gloves,
flexible recoil air hose
air die grinder
air cut off disc
air random orbital sander
4" angle grinder
pry bar kit
open end wrench set
numerous special sockets
auto and motorcycle tire changing machine
air brush compressor
Automotive A/C test gauges
High volume low pressure electric paint spray unit
Im sure there are many others that I have forgotten.


Most of the above were stolen from my storage unit....but prior to the theft and since....with those items that I have replaced...............I have had great service from most everything I bought from HF....with the possible exception of a couple of compressors that werent long lived which HF was quick to replace or refund....whichever I wished.

No complaints about HF from me.

BC

[wildwestrider]

Actually need to clarify that a bit. Although Im pretty good buffing with wool pads....I totally suck buffing with the newer foam pads............they get too much traction and hop around.

I'd bust a lock in my basement and say there!

Buffing is easy, stay away from edges because they burn quick! I can't do it anymore with my back. If your a beginer use the 6" but a bigger wheel is a must for professional use! Makita makes a nice variable speed for under $100

[Pablo]

Actually need to clarify that a bit. Although Im pretty good buffing with wool pads....I totally suck buffing with the newer foam pads............they get too much traction and hop around.

Actually that's not the type of buffer I was writing about.

[wildwestrider]

Im talking about High speed rotary (not random orbital)with variable speed adjustment as used in body shops. HF sells a knock off of the Black and decker generally used....its the one with the noisy gear drive I mentioned.....their's comes with the newer style foam pad..............Im old school wool pad.

BC

[Pablo]

I'm talking about a benchtop/pedestal buffer.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=94393

[davidsis]

This is the type of post that makes me love this web page. Briliant!

[wildwestrider]

I had one of those for a while as well for buffing metal parts. Easy to use and did a great job. I still suck at buffing out auto paint jobs.

I'm talking about a benchtop/pedestal buffer.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=94393

[arceeguy]

For buffin' cars, I have a Porter Cable 7424 DA Sander/Buffer. Some things are best left to better tools, and not HFT specials! This one is a good example IMO.

[wildwestrider]

I had one of those as well along with my Black and decker...both stolen.....I cant bring myself to buy either one again since I agonized for a couple of years over buying each one.........only to have them both (and most of everything else on the long list I mentioned) stolen, along with my home theater system, a 30 pound bottle of freon (New) all my new tools for Habitat for Humanity home building (that ticked me off more than anything).......my no longer living parent's antique ceiling fan. and much more.....

[machiasmort]

I never fully got the hang of buffing. Painting I'm so-so... My body and metal work are supreme tho. If your buffing w/DA, Don't use it on random orbit AG! You want to lock the hub so it spins concentric or in other words perfectly circular!!!

Oh, the honest mistakes I've seen in my time!!! One lady washed her husbands brand new Dodge Dynasty w/ a chore boy brillo pad because a bird Pooped on it! The whole top of the car, hood and decklid!

Another guy tried to polish his Dad's 69 Vet w/linseed oil!

Yet another, my favorite... 3 Y.O. Targa Carrera brought to K-mart for a flat tire. Guy was out of town and they were the only place open. A kid was working another job and set a huge ballpean hammer on the air filter. Why they were under the hood is still a mystery but the perfect impression it made when the next guy didn't notice and slammed the hood was unmistakable! The perfect outline!!! My boss was so good he got the dent out without a spot of putty!

[arceeguy]

I never fully got the hang of buffing. Painting I'm so-so... My body and metal work are supreme tho. If your buffing w/DA, Don't use it on random orbit AG! You want to lock the hub so it spins concentric or in other words perfectly circular!!!

The PC 7424 is suited for amateurs like me. Because of the DA motion, it would be pretty hard to "burn" the paint. Unfortunately, since my cars are all pretty old, when you buff and polish the paint all of the little dings stick out like a sore thumb. I don't think there is an option to lock the hub anyway. I think it was originally meant to be a DA sander, but auto enthusiasts started using them for detailing. I had to buy a different counterweight so I could use the foam buffing pads without shaking my arms off.

And to keep on topic - more decent Harbor Freight Tools:


6" composite calipers (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=93293)

Often on sale for $6.99, it is great to have around the shop. (when you don't want to risk your $15.99 HFT aluminum digital calipers. lol

[machiasmort]

Don't get me wrong, and your right, it will polish on random orbit (better for wax)! To rub or buff, way better locked up like a grinder. There's a fine line where you can walk a buffer. You actually remelt the surface of the paint for a second! Thats what gives the shine!!!... I've burnt many a finger nails holding pieces for my old boss. I still never got the hang the way he can!

Calipers, I'm sure have come a long way in the past 10yrs. Mines about 15 y.o. composite and made in China.

That's a fine example of what we talk about right there AG... Why can't AG and Mort make them here for profit? Composite = EPA certs. for company + labor (1/4 in China) + free electric + minnimal taxes= Mort and AG out of business competition before we even start. What's worse is even if we were to make the very best, by the time we hit an overseas market, we'd be tarriffied the hek out of! Sorry to get off topic.

Paying creedance a HF 99C tarp saved the day yesterday!

[Bikewer]

I just bought the cheap HF gear puller to yank the pulley off the end of my salvaged motor's crankshaft....Worked great.
I picked up one of the 3.99 (on sale!) hole-saw kits and it's worked pretty well, but the drill bit has a tendency to go off-center a bit. It's just held in with a set-screw.

[machiasmort]

Good Q for AG. Bought a HF compressor/airbrush set up a while back. The compressor keeps spitting water into the air line creating mayhiem w/ my paint. Is there any reliable filter for moisture that you know of? Should I build a holding tank out of a 3L bottle? Compressor only puts out @60 psi...

[lordoflightaz]

HF has their filter/regulator on sale this month.

[arceeguy]

Here you go (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=94346) Marty!

[machiasmort]

Thanks AG...

What I forgot to mention is that the thread sizes are totally unadaptable with anything I've ever seen or could find in any hardware store arround here!!!

When I "MADE" a fitting for my bigger airbrush to run off the comp. I melted a nylon bushing with my propane torch inorder to match the thread sizes. After threading the bushing, I drilled a hole for the air to get through!
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=95630
This is almost identical to the one I have, except mine only goes to 50 -60psi. Just seen a filiter that connects to the bottom of the brush but seems it will get in the way of the paint pot! I'll come up with something! Overall I must say I'm impressed with the brush and the only problem I've had is loss of seals (O'rings) due to use of clear coat eating them!

[arceeguy]

This (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=47986) adapter might be what you're looking for. Goes from standard to metric. I use one with my Paasche VL airbrush. I also have a cheapo 5 dollar HFT airbrush too, but it doesn't compare to the "real deal"!

[machiasmort]

That adaptor was exactly what I needed but none of the local HF's had it arround here! I tried to take a pic of the one I made for entertainment purposes but the camera is on the fritz now. I'll be taking that appart next! Luck I tell ya.

[javelina1]

There's a HFT about a mile away from my work. And next to several lunch eateries. I'm generally there every other week, (to which drives my Wife crazy....) :rolleyes7:

[Pablo]

Not that I trust this for 400#'s, but has anyone bought this:

http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/itemdisplay/displayItem.do?itemid=40765

For say 100-180 pounds???

[GearNut]

Not that I trust this for 400#'s, but has anyone bought this:

http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/itemdisplay/displayItem.do?itemid=40765

For say 100-180 pounds???

A friend of mine had one of those way up in a tree in his backyard. He had it set up to hoist himself up in a hammock. It pulled his 180 lb no problem and never failed. (would have dropped him 12 feet down).

[Luka]

Rotary tool, Dremel knock off- horrible- tossed it. No power, accessories sucked.

Hi Hough,

I am guessing that you got this one: http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=94076

That is just a toy.

I bought this one: http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=40457

This one has worked beautifully for me.

It is better than the old craftsman knockoff I used to have. Which was better than the dremel of the time. More solid. More power... Etc.

This one gets two thumbs up from me.

[Chris Crew]

I bought their second biggest bench vice last winter---made in India. This is the model with the swivel base.

Second use I torqued off the screw that tightens up the swivel---had to swing it all the way to one side and run a big lag screw into the bench top--now it don't swivel any more. Otherwise, it holds things pretty well.

[WhizBangAndy]

Harbor Freight is Awesome for sure but getting quality stuff handed down from my Uncle and Dad beats it every time!

[strotter]

Anybody bought one of the Chicago generators?? How do they hold up?

[seanhan]

Quick disconnect kits are nice and work quite well and way cheaper then the Depot...Also I got the Chicago chainsaw chain sharpener its nice works well.

[Luka]

Anybody bought one of the Chicago generators?? How do they hold up?

I have one of the small (100 dollars) generators.

Haven't even taken it oput of the box yet. It's for emergencies and I haven't had one yet. LOL

Bought it because the neighbor also has one. He has had his for over 6 years. It has always been reliable for him. (Even though he doesn't do anywhere near to normal maintenance.)

It runs his welder (110v wire-feed) all the time.

[Luka]

Not that I trust this for 400#'s, but has anyone bought this:

http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/itemdisplay/displayItem.do?itemid=40765

For say 100-180 pounds???

Pablo,

Sorry for getting back to this after so long a time.

If you mount one of those properly, and add one more block pulley, (Available at HF for about 3 dollars), you can lift the front end of a pickup truck, off the ground.

I wouldn't leave it hanging there, but it does pick one up.

If you replace the small cable with a larger diameter cable, and add the extra block pulley, (And it is mounted properly.), I'd say you could pick up 400 pounds and leav it hanging almost indefinitely.

Note: "Mounted properly" Doesn't necessarily mean using the cheapo 'straps' they include with it. I bolted mine directly to a 6x12 beam. I use LARGE washers, followed by the standard 3/8" washers, to eliminate any tear-through.

Also, if you are going to lift anything more than about 200 pounds, do not hook the end hook, or extra block pulley to the hole they provide in the sheet metal. Make up a stronger attachment point somewhere else. I used a cast 'eye-bolt', bolted through the beam. But you could just loop a chain across the beam, and use that.

[Nuttsy]

Okay,
I'm not gonna go back and wade through gobs of threads (been away a while) to see if anyone posted about these, but the ultra-sonic cleaners they offer will clean anything in the way of small parts. I've had one for a while and have cleaned fuel injectors with INCREDIBLE results. So why not throw your dis-assembled carb. in there too? These things will clean the little passage ways that you could NEVER get to. With the advent of ETHANOL and all the crud that this stuff can do if left for a while, the carb. and fuel system can get mighty gummy. Actually, small engines HATE that sh-tuff! You can add either solvents or inert type cleaners like butyl or other water-soluble de-greasers, etc. or just mineral spirits or water!
They cost ~ $40US or you could go all out for $80, but why?
Also, for non-US markets, Wally World sells 'em too under the Haier name.

Side note: they will also clean jewelery (go figure), eyglasses (exceptional) and other little trinkets and such.

http://www.harborfreight.com/ultrasonic-cleaner-3305.html

OR: http://www.harborfreight.com/25-liter-ultrasonic-cleaner-95563.html

I just got done cleaning a deuce from a Briggs & Stratton (constant surging due to over-rich mixture and NO (as in ZERO) carb adjustment! yeah, NO SCREWS! AND GOVERNED to BOOT!--pressure washer) that I could not get to the passages even with compressed air. Put the carb back on and VIOLA! no more surging! Well, it could have been anything, but I blame the ultrasonic cleaner!
Well, that's my story, and I"m sticking to it!
Crud, just go out and get one; you can use it on ANYTHING!
Cheers!
NUTZ

[GearNut]

I've been using one of those for years. It has a built in heater too.
My model warns "Not for use with petroleum based solvents. Use water based, non sudsing cleaners only". It is still worth every penny I paid for it.

The model I really wanted was out of stock and back ordered. You could put any kind of solution you wanted into it and it is twice the capacity of the cleaner I have.

[unior]

I broke down and bought one of the electric fly swatter's the other day. For $3.50 I am thoroughly impressed.

[GearNut]

I dare you to touch it and press the little button!:jester:

[Bonefish]

I didn't buy one of these, but harbor freight sells them. I made my own out of a single burner propane camp stove.

It allows you to refill the 1lb propane canister using a 20lb gas grill tank.

here is a video of a guy using the Harbor Freight adapter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKCYIOnxwkg

[adb140275]

Central Machinery wrench sets are very nice and convenient.