The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread...

[atch]

There are some tools that I don't believe you can have too many of.

Grinders (I have 7)
Routers (I have 8)
Electric drills (I have 6)

The idea is to have each one set up for a specific job and not having to change wire wheels, grinder stones, or bits.

To keep this on topic 4 of the grinders are HF and 2 of the drills are HF.

I'll still accumulate a couple more 4.5" grinders. You can have soft/stiff wire wheels; soft/stiff wire cups; 2-3 different stone wheels; 3-4 flapper discs; etc. by only putting one down and picking up another. I keep mine all plugged in. These are always left set up.

Similar with routers and drills. These get set up for each project with specific bits, except for one router that always has a 1/4" roundover bit in it.

 

[619DioFan]

I have 4 hf grinders. 2 of them are 20 years old and still work fine ( they are blue and look like makitas ) each one has a different attachment. by switching between the different ones they never seem to get overheated which is probably why they have lasted. also makes things go faster by not having to change the wheel , disc , etc.

 

[Ford52PU]

I've had about 10 of the HF grinders over the years, have 5 right now each with a different purpose. For the cost they cant be beat in my opinion. When I'm working on a project I use the hell out of them. They haven't let me down yet.

 

[tym]

Multi use hand transfer pump 61364. FAIL.

Tried to use one I bought a while ago for a gear oil change. Did not work at all, and fiddling with it served only to help me spill friction modifier all over myself. Good thing it smells so nice...LOL.

Plus, the pump barrel and tubes are opaque, making it impossible to verify proper function visually.

 

[ndnchf]

I ran over this morning and picked up another 65519 grinder. I also got a pack of cut off discs and the accessory cut off disc guide/guard thing. Had to do a little tweaking to fit the guide, but it fits and works well. I'll keep this one dedicated to cut off use.

 

[Platonic Solid]

18 in. Ship Auger Bit Set 3 Pc

Fail - Successfully drilled two 3/4" holes in 4x4, then had to hit the local Ace Hardware and spend $35 for an auger bit that actually worked to finish the job.

Hitch Receiver Mount for Winch

FAIL - Way too flimsy to even consider mounting a winch to. Returned.

 

[Engine]

18 in. Ship Auger Bit Set 3 Pc

Fail - Successfully drilled two 3/4" holes in 4x4, then had to hit the local Ace Hardware and spend $35 for an auger bit that actually worked to finish the job.

These wouldn't even hold up when drilling wood? That's pretty damn bad!

 

[tym]

^ Almost sounds like they're made from pot metal! LOL.

 

[My Old Tools]

2000# electric hoist and 2 ton beam trolley, both pass. If you mount the hoist on the trolley, add a half inch axle with a couple of cheap ball bearings under the beam with about 1/8" clearance. This keeps the trolley from tilting on the beam from the offset weight of the hoist motor. The hoist has lifted a 13"x7' South Bend lathe, Millrite mill, Powermatic 66, 16" Northfield HD jointer, 18" Delta wedgebed planer, 32" Crescent Rockwell bandsaw, and a ton of other stuff as I move my shop.

 

[phy6]

I ran over this morning and picked up another 65519 grinder. I also got a pack of cut off discs and the accessory cut off disc guide/guard thing. Had to do a little tweaking to fit the guide, but it fits and works well. I'll keep this one dedicated to cut off use.

Is that guide something they sell as well? Looks good. I've been wanting to make a mini chop saw out of one of these grinders

 

[ndnchf]

Is that guide something they sell as well? Looks good. I've been wanting to make a mini chop saw out of one of these grinders

Yes
https://www.harborfreight.com/safety-guard-for-angle-grinders-61680.html

There werected 3 things I did to the safety guard to work on my grinder.

1. The arms needed to be bent slightly to make the base 90 degrees to the blade.

2. The clamp ring would not tighten enough to clamp it firmly to the grinder. I had to grind off a little metal on the part that the clamp ring attaches to in order to remove the area that interfered.

3. I shortened the clamp screws. They were way too long and interfered with mounting.

All told it took less than 10 minutes to modify and install it. The tool is now like a mini circular saw for steel.

 

[unlvrebel]

12v compressor Item 69284

https://www.harborfreight.com/12v-100-psi-high-volume-air-compressor-69284.html

Tubeless tire plug kit Item 62611

https://www.harborfreight.com/tubeless-tire-repair-kit-9-pc-62611.html


Huge PASS.

Field plugged TWO rear tires on a Dodge Ram 3500 dually. Pumped each of the tires to 50lbs without issue.

 

[jgromada]

12v compressor Item 69284

https://www.harborfreight.com/12v-100-psi-high-volume-air-compressor-69284.html

Huge PASS.

Field plugged TWO rear tires on a Dodge Ram 3500 dually. Pumped each of the tires to 50lbs without issue.

I have had huge problems with that air pump. I have had two of them and they fail to completely fill two tires before the thermal cutout kicks in.

 

[Sweet Old Bill]

I have used the same air compressor on passenger car tires with no problems. I have used the air compressor 10-12 times over 3-4 years. For occasional use, it has been a very good deal.

 

[tym]

My dad had the next smaller model down and the inrush current for the cheap motor would blow the fuse in his van every time. Trashed it years ago.

 

[unlvrebel]

I have had huge problems with that air pump. I have had two of them and they fail to completely fill two tires before the thermal cutout kicks in.

Guess I got a good one... Both tires, one after the other, in the Florida sun...

 

[Colin Len]

Anyone have any experience with the 7" Chicago Electric Angle Grinder? #62766
https://www.harborfreight.com/7-in-11-amp-heavy-duty-angle-grinder-62766.html

I found a bunch of reviews for the 4.5" grinders but not the 7". I'm assuming they're basically the same quality but figured it was worth asking. I already have one of the blue 4.5" grinders and it's been a workhorse.

I'd be buying this grinder to grind the paint off of my front porch. So, for the most part it'd be one time use (until I find another time to use it, which I'm guessing will be rare). I'm wondering if I should just spend $50 and get this from HF or spend 3x that and get a name brand like Makita or Dewalt.

 

[jam022316]

Anyone have any experience with the 7" Chicago Electric Angle Grinder? #62766
https://www.harborfreight.com/7-in-11-amp-heavy-duty-angle-grinder-62766.html

I found a bunch of reviews for the 4.5" grinders but not the 7". I'm assuming they're basically the same quality but figured it was worth asking. I already have one of the blue 4.5" grinders and it's been a workhorse.

I'd be buying this grinder to grind the paint off of my front porch. So, for the most part it'd be one time use (until I find another time to use it, which I'm guessing will be rare). I'm wondering if I should just spend $50 and get this from HF or spend 3x that and get a name brand like Makita or Dewalt.

I've got no experience with them but personally for one time jobs or things I won't use a lot you can't go wrong with harbor freight imo.

 

[ChevyEFI]

Anyone have any experience with the 7" Chicago Electric Angle Grinder?

I bought the orange version 5+yrs ago.

Probably not the smoothest running option out there, but after having used it for cutoff of poles from concrete, grinding of who knows what, and running a big shrinking disc, I wouldn't bother spending more to do the same work.

Since it is a bigger, heavier, less safe tool than a 4.5" AG, make sure you feel comfortable with it before you start that project.

 

[nes999]

Does anyone have experience with the hitch racks?

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[DFB]

Does anyone have experience with the hitch racks?

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Many many years I bought one of the cargo carriers they sold for a 2" receiver hitch. Gave me fits as the holes for the locking pin were drilled off and it wouldn't go thru at first but was ok after some modification. What more can I say it worked and got the job done

Rattled around and made a lot of noise though, overall was pretty loose fit in the tube,

Maybe they're better now who knows

 

[Colin Len]

I've got no experience with them but personally for one time jobs or things I won't use a lot you can't go wrong with harbor freight imo.

Yeah, that was my mentality here. I don't mind paying extra for good quality tools but I do have a hard time paying extra for something that is going to sit when there's a cheaper alternative that will suffice for my limited usage.

I bought the orange version 5+yrs ago.

Probably not the smoothest running option out there, but after having used it for cutoff of poles from concrete, grinding of who knows what, and running a big shrinking disc, I wouldn't bother spending more to do the same work.

Since it is a bigger, heavier, less safe tool than a 4.5" AG, make sure you feel comfortable with it before you start that project.

Hmm, not the smoothest huh? When you say smooth are you talking about startup or just operation? I'm going to be grinding the paint off my front porch so I want a smooth finish. If this grinder is wobbly then it would be worth it to buy a better one so I can get a better finish. I tested my plan with my 4" angle grinder and a turbo cup wheel and results were great. I just want to us a 7" for the project so it doesn't take so long. Plus the other option would be to rent a grinder from Home Depot but for that price I can buy these tools instead.

 

[Sweet Old Bill]

I bought one about 8 years ago. I was so pleased with it, that I bought two more, for family members. They were both very pleased, too.

 

[ndnchf]

I bought one about 8 years ago. I was so pleased with it, that I bought two more, for family members. They were both very pleased, too.

Bought what??

 

[Loose Ctrl]

Anyone have any experience with the 7" Chicago Electric Angle Grinder? #62766
https://www.harborfreight.com/7-in-11-amp-heavy-duty-angle-grinder-62766.html

I found a bunch of reviews for the 4.5" grinders but not the 7". I'm assuming they're basically the same quality but figured it was worth asking. I already have one of the blue 4.5" grinders and it's been a workhorse.

I'd be buying this grinder to grind the paint off of my front porch. So, for the most part it'd be one time use (until I find another time to use it, which I'm guessing will be rare). I'm wondering if I should just spend $50 and get this from HF or spend 3x that and get a name brand like Makita or Dewalt.

Used one once. Be prepared for a lot more vibrations through the handles than a name brand unit.

 

[Sweet Old Bill]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Sweet Old Bill View Post
I bought one about 8 years ago. I was so pleased with it, that I bought two more, for family members. They were both very pleased, too.
Bought what??

The hitch racks, used on SUV's, kids were not squeezed in the SUV. Bulky stuff was on the hitch rack. Even the daughters in law were happy with them.

 

[Loose Ctrl]

Pass-able- 18 inch Pipe Wrench 61350. It works well but just a couple heads up. The wrench has a very slick rust preventer on it. The head is spring loaded and doesn't open back much. I found I had to tighten the jaws enough that on the backswing, to get another bite on the pipe, it would occasionally grab and retighten the pipe. If the wrench is used enough, I feel that it will probably loosen up and get better.

Pass- Variable speed oscolating power tool item 63113. I used this unit to help trim out and replace a section of flooring in my house. It wasn't a speedy process but it made the cuts need that were in the corners and up against the walls.

Pass- 3-1/2 in high-speed steel multi-tool half-moon blade. Item 61815. Be careful not to confuse it with the wood only blade. They look almost identiacal. The wood blade has a course cut in comparison. It's rated for wood and metal. I got it because I did not know if I would hit nails when cutting out to replace my floor in my house. It's fine tooth and slow but works and cuts through nails. Just let the blade work with light pressure.

Pass- Tubing cutter item 40913. It says 1/8th to 1-1/8th inch diameters. It's more like 1/2 inch to 1 inch. It works well on CPVC and PVC. The blade for cleaning off burs is useless but I always use a razor knife for that anyway.

Pass-able- 32 piece screwdriver set with tweezers. Item 97517. I bought this to repair my cell phone. Be aware that the tweezers are rounded and thick on the ends. They worked for my use but barely. I mainly bought the set for the ph00 and T5 bits.

FAIL- Magnifying glass item 37708. The glass has deep scratches and the lens in not clear at all. There is even bubbles in the glass. If you need to see fine detail, pass this by quickly. The blemishes can't be seen in the package. As soon as it's out, it very obvious. It may be ok for reading the paper, if your glasses have misplaced you.

 

[poriggity]

Pass - Pittsburgh Dual drive ratches I bought the two pack of dual drive ratchets a little while back and have used them numerous times and they have been flawless, and 1000 times better than any other ratchet in my tool box. at 16.99 for the pair, it's hard to go wrong. One ratchet has 1/2" drive on one side, and 3/8" drive on the other. The other ratchet has 3/8" drive and 1/4" drive.

https://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-q...2-half-inch-dual-drive-ratchet-set-94027.html

Scott

 

[Rewind97]

PASS......I got the HF mobile base to use on my Radial Arm Saw. Works great. Not as convenient as other models with the flip down levers to lower the wheels but with a 20% coupon got it for a little over $30.

 

[cheechi]

^ this was great to use on my PC bandsaw, I got a hardwood baluster from HD fits in their '2x2' slots. It does not roll very well over their foam floor stuff but over concrete it rolls great.

 

[619DioFan]

Welding cart part # 693490 - PASS

This is the smaller two shelf unit for mig or tig welders. got it for use with my flux core wire welder . added a power strip to the back area for the welder and also to plug my grinders into. added a dedicated 50foot extension cord to it. came with extra nuts and bolts but no lock washers so used my own. once tightened up it feels pretty strong. rolls well. doubt I could have made one for less.

 

[knighter]

Is this auger worth it?


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[ChevyEFI]

I haven't tried another, but that auger does work okay,

 

[JRC3]

I have an Earthquake and it has a shock absorbing spring on the auger shaft. I could see the Predator being a bit hash when witting rocks and roots.

You can order an Earthquake with bit at HD for the same price, but you wouldn't get the 20% off coupon. Unless you go to the store and maybe talk them into it. http://www.homedepot.com/p/Southlan...gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CMiSqM3lwNYCFRaKaQodJWEFyw

 

[Reit38]

I also recently saw the predator earth auger and have been thinking about purchasing. Especially with the coupon in the last add making it $159

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[JRC3]

Got new coupons.

Auger: Use you 20% off coupon one something else in the same trip.

 

[Reit38]

20% is off single item only correct? So it wouldn't stack on top of the auger for $159?

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[jd_1138]

Their red handled "pro" pliers are pretty decent -- especially at $3-$4 each. Here are the 6" long nose ones -- item 94378. The chunky handles can get in the way though if you're working in tight areas. Not as good as Channellocks.

 

[Jp267]

I'm sure it's just me but does anyone find it odd HF doesn't offer a compressor between the 29 gallon and 60 gallon when several of their pneumatic tools fall in between CFM requirements of the two. I guess good upsell to me they are missing a segment. Maybe not just off the top of my head.

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[JRC3]

I'm sure it's just me but does anyone find it odd HF doesn't offer a compressor between the 29 gallon and 60 gallon

Who else does? Beside calling it a 30G to make it sound bigger than 20-something. It's just how it works going from 120 to 240v. It's probably more about tank construction and their end caps.