My Harbor Freight Investment

[383astro]

What was the point of this thread again, its been so cleaned out, nothing makes sense.

I think he was just trying to show everyone his collection of tools like everyone else on here does. I give him two thumbs up for having the balls to start a thread like this and for having thick skin to take all the ****. I would think you could talk about any kind of tools in the "General Tool Discussion".
Maybe we should have seperate parts of the forum such as 'foreign tool discussion" and "USA tool discussion" so posters can take their sides?

OP-If you do use HF tools day in day out then that is awesome. Keep doing what you do and make that dough. In the end thats all that matters.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

You say the precision instruments work fine, but have you actually checked the calibration on anything? I picked up one of their fuel pressure testers to keep around the house when I poking around in a neighbors car and the damn thing wasnt even close to right. 20 something psi low when I checked it the next day against my gauge at work. And I say "something" because it wasnt even consistent. Ive seen cars not start when they are 10 psi low so that level of inaccuracy is not acceptable to me.

I also saw a coworker attempt to use the bolt puller set and it ripped the threads right out of the thing, and another coworker break the arms off their pitman arm tool on the first use.

Im sorry man, but those tools dont look like they're used professional day in and day out, chinese or not. Tools wear out, sockets become bell shaped, the square drive ends become rounded especially when used with an impact. And the fact that everything is spotless. I wear gloves at work also, **** gets on your gloves, then **** gets on your tools. I dont care how much you clean them, grease and crud doesnt come off those soft handles or the plastic cases, you cant polish scratches out of every wrench and socket you own. Seriously your chisels look like they have never touched another piece of steel let alone been hammered on. Gasoline eats styrofoam so you night want to find another way to store that fuel pressure tester once it has been used. Tools get worn, not just dirty and those tools are not worn. Im flying the BS flag that you wrench daily, all day long. Assuming you are the guy that said you use "ONLY" HF tools in that other thread and that you wrench professionally 40+ hours a week.

That said, If your just working out of your garage and the tools are making you money then good for you, Im glad it works for you. I cant do that, I dont have the time to waste. Time is money and it pisses me off when a tool fails prematurely.

What was the point of this thread again, its been so cleaned out, nothing makes sense.

I said it before on page one. I have a mild case of OCD. I warranty my tools when they get too dirty, the chisel set was exchanged along with the pickle forks, pics, and pliers a short time ago. If you look at the sockets in my top chest "to the right of the screen" you will see a discolored 1/2 drive impact socket. The other day I had to heat up a nut to get it off, and it discolored the socket. Guess what set is getting exchanged soon. The socket is fine. I know, I have a problem, but it drives me nuts; sometimes to the point where I can't work. It's like working in a cluttered mess, too frustrating in my brain. Why I'm sharing the info is beyond me.

I also put on new gloves before handling anything with a colored handle and/or wrap clean rags around them when in use.

I go through a lot of gloves. LOL

 

[srmofo]

2. The thread has not been "so cleaned out." Early on, I deleted one major bash and then a bunch of replies that quoted that bash. That's it. This is essentially the whole thread.

If thats it then......whats the point of this again. The guy uses HF tools who cares....I try not to whenever possible, some will never touch them, then others dont care either way. To each their own.

I also agree with the other guy that said if had nothing and had to start over again at this day and time, sears would not get anything from me. Although I might have to make an exception here and there because HF doesnt believe in certain sizes for some reason

 

[shovel]

Hey John, thanks for posting this thread. While I do understand the pro tool fans and even the HF haters, Its good to see a guy making a living with affordable tools without going into debt. Its too bad we all cant act like adults and Bull has to play cop here. I for one, appreciate you sharing.

 

[autoace]

Do you think the tools will be scared? Most all HF tools, it's gotta be like moving into the ghetto for your Cornwells.

The car doesn't leak. Guess I got really lucky? I'll still make the video, kinda curious if it will leak afterwards? If it does, I'll buy the tools, found them in Google search new for under $200.00.

No I have HF tools also, and like GearWrench so the culture shock would not be bad.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

Hey John, thanks for posting this thread. While I do understand the pro tool fans and even the HF haters, Its good to see a guy making a living with affordable tools without going into debt. Its too bad we all cant act like adults and Bull has to play cop here. I for one, appreciate you sharing.

Thanks, I appreciate it. And, thanks to all of you for support and even criticism. I wasn't trying to start a war; I was just shocked at how little I have invested.

 

[Bull]

If thats it then......whats the point of this again.

Well, if I might hazard a guess: this is the "General Tool Discussion" forum, and this guy wanted to discuss his tools!

 

[Hiball]

Well, if I might hazard a guess: this is the "General Tool Discussion" forum, and this guy wanted to discuss his tools!

Your crazy... Next thing you know people will be showing pictures of there Auction/flea/Yard-sale finds.

 

[King Bojack]

Excellent tool collection. I always wondered what it would be like to be a mechanic with exclusive HF tools. Spending over 3 grand at HF? They must have thrown you a bar-b-q lunch or something. I wish I had the scratch now for the HF boxes. So shockingly good them HF boxes.

 

[Teken]

I had to look at your tool collection for a second time to confirm that you have a thru-hole style ratchet set.

If you have used this set extensively could you give me, and the others some insight as to the quality and the human ergonomics of this HF branded set compared to the others on the market . . .

 

[Indy_500]

I just take of them, I clean them after every use "sometimes during." I don't drag them on the floor or use them as hammers "unless they are a hammer. LOL"

See, i'm a lil different. I beat my tools up pretty bad and i have pretty much all HF tools. I use ratchets as a hammer all the time and whatnot. I use sockets as a "press". And none of my HF tools have failed me. But then again i dont' use tools on a daily basis. I just take apart all my lawnmower engines once a week for something to do

 

[oldtools]

A good investment is one with good fast return. In this case, it is. I also have HF tools. I have never broken a HF tools, but I am only a DIY'r. I just bought the HF noid light tester for $18 (sale + 20% discount). Quality is surprising good. That thing work well. Help me diagnose fuel injection problem. Turn out to be bad fuel injector, not PCM.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

A good investment is one with good fast return. In this case, it is. I also have HF tools. I have never broken a HF tools, but I am only a DIY'r. I just bought the HF noid light tester for $18 (sale + 20% discount). Quality is surprising good. That thing work well. Help me diagnose fuel injection problem. Turn out to be bad fuel injector, not PCM.

I have it also, nice little peice. Most all of HF's diagnostic tools are made by the same manufacturer, and rebadged. Tooltopia has the same noid light kit, selling for a higher price.

 

[Huyzel]

Good investment choice and collection of tools. I have both imported and domestic products that i abuse which are holding up very well. As to all the haters, go find something else better to do rather then get on here and whine about BS.. (I hope you lose a socket)

 

[TireTracks]

I can say i would be happy with those tools. I often wish i could have picked up one of those 301 peice HF pro tool sets instead of the craftsman i bought, because i would have more tools, for less money invested, which i dont have alot of.

 

[Danglerb]

What I learned is never add up your receipts.

Question I have is what is with mechanics and the Chevy Nova? Do all of you have one?

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

Yeah, the thread is unlocked. Give me a few days, and I'll re-edit the 1st post with better pics.

I gotta say thanks to Bull, you're the man.

 

[moronmountain]

I said it before on page one. I have a mild case of OCD. I warranty my tools when they get too dirty, the chisel set was exchanged along with the pickle forks, pics, and pliers a short time ago. If you look at the sockets in my top chest "to the right of the screen" you will see a discolored 1/2 drive impact socket. The other day I had to heat up a nut to get it off, and it discolored the socket. Guess what set is getting exchanged soon. The socket is fine. I know, I have a problem, but it drives me nuts; sometimes to the point where I can't work. It's like working in a cluttered mess, too frustrating in my brain. Why I'm sharing the info is beyond me.

I also put on new gloves before handling anything with a colored handle and/or wrap clean rags around them when in use.

I go through a lot of gloves. LOL

Man your tools look brand new, not well taken care of......... HF warranties dirty tools for you?

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

Man your tools look brand new, not well taken care of......... HF warranties dirty tools for you?

Yes, they have a no questions asked policy. I'm pretty good at maintaining them. It's not like I warranty stuff all the time.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

Replaced original pics with new clearer pics "in first post."

 

[heelsroll]

Replaced original pics with new clearer pics "in first post."

Beautiful stuff!

 

[Teken]

Replaced original pics with new clearer pics "in first post."

The new pictures came out fantastic . . . I appreciate you taking more time in doing a retake!

 

[mrholeshot]

I'm really glad to see this thread back.
The only thing that troubles me is you say they have paid for themselves 10 fold. They look unused to me. If thats true you spend much more time cleaning your tools than using them. What do you work on? I checked out those coposite ratchets today. I almost pulled the trigger on a 3/8 (6.99) but decided the 80 something 3/8 ones I have is enough. I really liked the feel of them.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

I'm really glad to see this thread back.
The only thing that troubles me is you say they have paid for themselves 10 fold. They look unused to me. If thats true you spend much more time cleaning your tools than using them. What do you work on? I checked out those coposite ratchets today. I almost pulled the trigger on a 3/8 (6.99) but decided the 80 something 3/8 ones I have is enough. I really liked the feel of them.

I spend much time cleaning and preventing damage "topic is covered on a few pages of this thread." To save you some search time, I'll sum it up; OCD.

I work on most anything, lately it's been the Jeep I6's "4.2/4.0L."

I like the composites also, I have 1/2, 3/8, and 1/4; the one thing I do not like; is the on/off switch is reversed vs every other ratchet in the world. LOL

 

[mrholeshot]

I like the composites also, I have 1/2, 3/8, and 1/4; the one thing I do not like; is the on/off switch is reversed vs every other ratchet in the world. LOL

I didn't notice that

 

[toolnut]

John I didn't see any bit sets or uni-bits from HF. They work great.

I changed a few from a set I got from Carquest so I have the tamer proof hex. But overall they cover everything.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

John I didn't see any bit sets or uni-bits from HF. They work great.

I changed a few from a set I got from Carquest so I have the tamer proof hex. But overall they cover everything.

I have the red case tamper proof kit "in screwdriver drawer." Have not had a need for the long torx yet. But, if I do I will buy them.

 

[RustFarmer]

quote from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Parcel_Service#Vehicles

"When using non-proprietary trucks, such as Ford E-Series vans, Dodge Caravans, or Dodge Sprinters, UPS will often remove the vehicle badging as to not provide free advertising to the manufacturer."

Suggestion: Unless you are sponsored by HF, why not replace the US General tags on the toolbox with the name of your business? Might make a difference if any of your potential customers are "Narrow-Minded" like some of us in Chicago and the rest of the Rust-Belt are.

 

[Bull]

What do you mean?

quote from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Parcel_Service#Vehicles

"When using non-proprietary trucks, such as Ford E-Series vans, Dodge Caravans, or Dodge Sprinters, UPS will often remove the vehicle badging as to not provide free advertising to the manufacturer."

Suggestion: Unless you are sponsored by HF, why not replace the US General tags on the toolbox with the name of your business? Might make a difference if any of your potential customers are "Narrow-Minded" like some of us in Chicago and the rest of the Rust-Belt are.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

quote from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Parcel_Service#Vehicles

"When using non-proprietary trucks, such as Ford E-Series vans, Dodge Caravans, or Dodge Sprinters, UPS will often remove the vehicle badging as to not provide free advertising to the manufacturer."

Suggestion: Unless you are sponsored by HF, why not replace the US General tags on the toolbox with the name of your business? Might make a difference if any of your potential customers are "Narrow-Minded" like some of us in Chicago and the rest of the Rust-Belt are.

I have no problem with US General badge; most all my customers have no clue, nor do they care that my tools are from HF. Second, if anyone was familiar with the higher end tool companies they would know where my box came from anyway. If I put Snap On badge on it, then I would be lying. I like the idea of a company badge, but I'm not spending the money to make a badge. I'm fine with US General name tag.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

What do you mean?

I think he means; why give HF free advertisement???

So if you work in a shop where your customers will see your box... Rip off your badges, and offer your tool truck guy to pay you a monthly fee, and you'll put the badges back on. Maybe he'll offer you more to spray paint his number on the front of your box?

 

[Teken]

The only thing that interests me is the simple fact you're probably the only person on this site I have ever seen purchase over 3K worth of tools from HF.

Also, making a good living using said tools. Now, is it the canvas, paint, or the painter that makes the final product?

This is the question people who are truly unbiased need answer . . . To the OP, how do you find the HF T-Hex bits?

 

[autoace]

Yes, they have a no questions asked policy. I'm pretty good at maintaining them. It's not like I warranty stuff all the time.

Exchanging because they are dirty! When I used my new Cornwell, impact, 3/8 drive, swivel the other day, I wore some of the black oxide off it, do you think that would fall under warranty, I don't..........tools get used and get marks no matter how well we take care of them. I don't understand that type of stuff

How is you cam video coming?, I'm about to find an old engine to get a cam and seal and make my own. I don't have any 2.9 cams, just the different 5cyl variants.

I like new, clean tools, also, but.....................they get marked up, what you gonna do.

I broke my HF pilot bearing puller the other day, I threw it out, no HF stores within 300 miles of here. It served well for 8 years, I'll just buy another one. I would have to mail it back for warranty, we need a HF store in this part of Maine.

 

[scott37300]

Actually if you step up to an Autoenginuity setup you will have pretty good diagnostic capability for pretty cheap.It's not OEM quality but for the price it's pretty damn good.

I bought AE for my ford diesel, to read the vehicle speciffic codes that the generic scanners won't read. I'm sure the top of the line snap on scanners are a lot better for the money I spent I got a great set up. I can run it right from my laptop and do a bunch of different tests. You get real time results and can record them for test drives and what not. The customer support is also really good. They come out with updates all the time and if I remember right it's only like 50 bucks a year to renew your subscription to get all the updates.

I bought the HF torx T-handles you have when they where on sale and was not happy with the quality. Also wasn't happy with the snap ring plier set you have, the tips were bent funny and couldn't use some of them. I have some HF stuff that I don't use all the time but try to get a little better quality for stuff I use a lot when I can afford to spend the money.

Looking to get a new box sometime this summer and the HF one is on the list of choices.

 

[RustFarmer]

What do you mean?

In business, Brand and Image are intertwined. Let's say John's business name is TopNotch Auto Repair. John would have some control over the Image of the TopNotch Auto Brand. John has no control over the Image of the USGeneral Brand. In addition, the Image of the USGeneral Brand may now or in the future be in conflict with the Image John is trying to build for TopNotch Auto.

Sometimes companies try to partner up with another Brand in a mutually beneficial arrangement. Example's of this would be McDonalds and Coke, Ford and Firestone, or Garage Journal and TopTul. This works well until your partner's image is no longer compatible with yours. I.E. if GarageJournal's Image becomes one of "Narrow-Minded" Asian Hating tool buyers, TopTul might want to end the arrangement.

 

[eborcim]

Nice upgraded pics.

 

[Coach James]

John, how have those HF torque wrenches worked for you? One of my co-workers wants to get his BIL a torque wrench. He didn't really like my suggestions and said he was looking at ones from HF.

Coach

 

[malibu101]

John, how have those HF torque wrenches worked for you? One of my co-workers wants to get his BIL a torque wrench. He didn't really like my suggestions and said he was looking at ones from HF.

Coach

FWIW, I have a HF special 1/2" drive torque wrench that I got just for torqueing lugnuts so as not to always beat on the "good" torque wrench.
It has been used many times to 100 ft/lbs. It has never (nor ever will be) calibrated but it seems to still work fine for this job.
If your building space shuttles, yolu may want to look elsewhere.

 

[bmrisko]

I have the 1/2" and 1/4" that I have used for lug nuts and engine bolts (respectively)...no issues and both wrenches still check out on the torque meter. Can't beat the price I paid...roughly $10 each on sale.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

The only thing that interests me is the simple fact you're probably the only person on this site I have ever seen purchase over 3K worth of tools from HF.

Also, making a good living using said tools. Now, is it the canvas, paint, or the painter that makes the final product?

This is the question people who are truly unbiased need answer . . . To the OP, how do you find the HF T-Hex bits?

I like them, have not used them for heavy load, just spinning some valve covers bolts down, if my drill/nut driver is dead/low. I would assume they would break under heavy load.