theamcaddict
Well-known member
I wound up getting it replaced with a cheaper feeling warranty replacement. The only reason I have that is because it was a gift and I need a 1/2 in that style.
The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread...
- Thread starter Bolster
- Start date
I wound up getting it replaced with a cheaper feeling warranty replacement. The only reason I have that is because it was a gift and I need a 1/2 in that style.
Harbor freight 750 lb capacity engine stand : pass.
http://www.harborfreight.com/750-lb-capacity-engine-stand-32915.html
Goes together nice, does its job without flexing or making me (who is doing an engine rebuild / repaint for the first time) nervous about being anywhere near it.
http://www.harborfreight.com/750-lb-capacity-engine-stand-32915.html
Goes together nice, does its job without flexing or making me (who is doing an engine rebuild / repaint for the first time) nervous about being anywhere near it.
concealer404
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- Mar 13, 2012
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^I'll second that. I have that one and the 1000lb variant and have no complaints.
I just tried the HF 18 gauge nailer, not the very similar combination nailer/stabler. Finished a project using about 120 nails. No jams, not a single jam. The reviews at the HF website had the same positive results. Reviews for the similar nailer/stabler was bad. Many returned the nailer/stabler and bought the nailer. I went and purchased 1.5 inch Porter Cable brand nails. I did not use the HF nails. The reviewers at their 23 gauge nailer mentioned that HF nails were the cause of their jam problem. So I figure I'd be safe and use a brand name nail. One pack of 1000 PC nails cost 1/3 of the nailer itself (on sale $19.99)!
I did end up returning the nailer. One problem ... no depth control. The nailer specs 90-120 psi operating pressure. I set my compressor output to 125-130 psi (I was told the slight higher psi is to compensate for the 50 feet length of 1/4" hose). As long as I shoot the nail in at exactly right angle flat to the surface, the head of the nail will go below the surface. If I am not shooting straight in, the nead will usually be flush to the surface. It is still not desirable. Rust color will bleed through paint coverings.
I was told varying the pressure varies the nail depth. Well, I was already at max psi. I did not want to try turning up the pressure.
I will probably be buying a Hitachi (~$56) or Porter Cable ($77).
IONH
Well-known member
I'll second this one. I have the 1000lb variant and got it for $30 as a returned item missing its slide on rear wheels. Got the store to steal some off a return they had out back which was missing too many parts. Did the job. Just wish it collapsed for ease of storage like my "Goodyear" one.
rlitman
Well-known member
You should check the fleamarkets, pawn-shops, CL.
The Porter Cable brad nailers bring $30-40 used. The 16 gauge bring $40-60. The $15 gauge angles go for $70-90. Framers, $80-120, BUT with a framer, make sure you know what you're buying (full head vs clipped head)
I've got one of each of those, and they're all happy with the HF nails, however, many of the PC nails are galvanized unlike the HF nails, so no rust bleed through issues with those.
At those prices, I couldn't justify buying the HF versions, but I did own the 6-in-1 older style blue framing nailer. I put a box of 3000 nails through it. It was pretty reliable, but only ran well when heavily oiled, and that included dripping a drop of oil straight onto the hammer each time I reloaded two strips of nails (skip that step, and it would jam).
BTW, believe it or not, the HF does in fact have depth control. It's that thumbwheel on the safety bar. It is supposed to work like the ones on the old PC nailers, but it's not accurate, and not very repeatable either. Maybe that's why it isn't mentioned in the booklets.
I would not buy a used pin nailer of any sort. They're too persnickety. Same thing goes for HF pin nails. When the nail has no head (and the hammer is a pin the same size as the nail), there's no room for error.
I don't know if the HF pin nailer is good or not, but I wouldn't buy it for one simple reason. It has no safety mechanism. At least the PC version has that cheezy plastic secondary trigger.
On that note, has anybody noticed the ridiculous trend of people trying to sell used HF stuff for more than you can get it at the store?
Seriously, if it's an HF tool, I'm buying it new. At least if/when it quickly fails, I can bring it right back.
38Chevy454
Well-known member
Bought one of these for my wife for exactly the same reason. She has trouble with a heavy load in a wheelbarrow. Only real drawback is that you can't maneuver as easily. I built 16 inch plywood sides at 45 degree angle so she can put more stuff in it without falling off the sides. Overall typical chinese manufacturing quality but I give it a PASS for doing what is required.
Alchymist
Well-known member
Micro-mini mill- FAIL. Took a while, but it took a dump. Cause was poor quality control for sure. Nylon gear on motor shaft was "keyed to the shaft with a tiny square key, or rather, it was supposed to be. The key "installed" was too wide to fit the slot in the motor shaft, so it appears it was turned 45 degrees and driven in.It was also about 1/8" too short.
End result was the gear started slipping. The key cut a recess in the gear about 2/3 of the depth of the gear. Will make a new key that fits the slot and is full length, turn the gear over so that the unboggled portion of the inner diameter is to the back, insert the key correctly, and fill the remainder of the void in the gear with epoxy. Nothing ventured, nothing gained; I can always replace the gear later.
End result was the gear started slipping. The key cut a recess in the gear about 2/3 of the depth of the gear. Will make a new key that fits the slot and is full length, turn the gear over so that the unboggled portion of the inner diameter is to the back, insert the key correctly, and fill the remainder of the void in the gear with epoxy. Nothing ventured, nothing gained; I can always replace the gear later.
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rlitman
Well-known member
They're getting better with that. About 10 years ago, I bought a bunch of 4" magnetic parts trays, and the rubber cover on the magnets stank for years.
Maybe that's why they were selling them for a buck.
The deadblow hammers took months to get past that, back in the day too.
So, it will get better, but it may take some time (or maybe that part of my nose is just burnt out now).
kyrbz
Well-known member
Item #96455 - 3000 lb. 12V Electric Winch
http://www.harborfreight.com/power-in-power-out-3000-lb-capacity-12-volt-electric-winch-96455.html
BIG FAIL!!!
When I was looking at these in the store an employee warned me they were junk, but I ignored his advice and bought one. I tried 4 different ones and none worked. Finally ask for a refund. In the process I also noticed that most of the units on the shelf were repackaged returns. The manager claims they never do that, but it was very obvious that is what they were doing.
http://www.harborfreight.com/power-in-power-out-3000-lb-capacity-12-volt-electric-winch-96455.html
BIG FAIL!!!
When I was looking at these in the store an employee warned me they were junk, but I ignored his advice and bought one. I tried 4 different ones and none worked. Finally ask for a refund. In the process I also noticed that most of the units on the shelf were repackaged returns. The manager claims they never do that, but it was very obvious that is what they were doing.
Goobzilla
Well-known member
2 Ton Capacity Underhoist Stand 41860 PASS
$55.99 with coupon
Buy 22 Lock Washers and (3) 1/2" longer bolts for bolting the cylinder to the frame and it's a good unit.
$55.99 with coupon
Buy 22 Lock Washers and (3) 1/2" longer bolts for bolting the cylinder to the frame and it's a good unit.
Jim Stabe
Well-known member
I also got one and it is a great buy. Solid construction. The rubber does stop smelling, be patient. It just reminds you how much money you saved.
warmpancakes
Well-known member
Little led lamp on sale this week for 3.50 I piced up a few they are very handy have a strong magnet on the back and great light output better than expected for a 3.50 lamp
http://www.harborfreight.com/27-led-portable-worklight-flashlight-67227.html
Id rate it a solid A- the plastic hook will pop out easily other wise it would be an A
http://www.harborfreight.com/27-led-portable-worklight-flashlight-67227.html
Id rate it a solid A- the plastic hook will pop out easily other wise it would be an A
Three piece prybar set with black and yellow handles.
EPIC FAIL
Had the big one break on me while removing a CV Axle almost hurt myself bad because of it.
Then I just went and got my biggest SK Screwdriver and it worked fine without breaking on me.
EPIC FAIL
Had the big one break on me while removing a CV Axle almost hurt myself bad because of it.
Then I just went and got my biggest SK Screwdriver and it worked fine without breaking on me.
langss
Well-known member
I agree. "Pass". I have been using one at work for the last 15 years. It locked up once because I failed to lube it properly, got it turning again and its been fine ever since. That was right after I got it. I use it every day.I like the idea of this thread as well. I'm planning a trip soon and would like to make a list. So far, urethane jack pad and dead blow.
My contribution is the right angle die grinder:
PASS- I use this ALOT and it works great.
mrbreezeet1
Banned
what broke, the metal tip, or the plastic handle?
concealer404
Well-known member
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- Mar 13, 2012
- Messages
- 1,147
I have a bunch of these. When i'm working under a car i just stick them in various places and go to work. It's a bit easier than carrying a drop light in with me.
The plastic handle broke on mine when i.... hit it with a hammer. SURPRISE!!! Also bent the smallest one REALLY easily.
Had good luck so far with the black hard handle set.
damn i was just looking at that one too..
is the "hard handle" one you speak of the 3 peice set with black and yellow handles or is there a better one that i didnt see?
concealer404
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http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-heavy-duty-pry-bar-set-1654.html
Those.
They're just fine so far for hobby work.
rlitman
Well-known member
http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-heavy-duty-pry-bar-set-1654.html
Those.
They're just fine so far for hobby work.
I have that set. For a given shaft thickness, they're at least 1/3 longer than my Craftsman or SO prybars. Because of they, they're way too springy if you put much force on them.
mrbreezeet1
Banned
Yeah, get the craftsman red handled set when it's on sale for around $20.00
blr3a
New member
I have that same pry bar set. One of my medium ones is straight now instead of curved at the end. The biggest one broke on me at the Pull-a-part this weekend. I now have stitches all up my thumb where my hand went slamming into the underside of a car....
To be half fair, I will admit I didn't have a good bite on it, but it just gave way. When I picked it up it looked like a mouse took a bite out of the end. (the flat part)
To be half fair, I will admit I didn't have a good bite on it, but it just gave way. When I picked it up it looked like a mouse took a bite out of the end. (the flat part)
blr3a
New member
I also saw someone gave this a pass:
http://www.harborfreight.com/blind-hole-bearing-puller-95987.html
Although it got my pilot bearing out, the tool was mangled beyond recognition. I considered replacing it... because it did work that one time I needed it... but just took a store credit instead. Bought some more of the composite ratchets that I love and put the rest in my wallet!
http://www.harborfreight.com/blind-hole-bearing-puller-95987.html
Although it got my pilot bearing out, the tool was mangled beyond recognition. I considered replacing it... because it did work that one time I needed it... but just took a store credit instead. Bought some more of the composite ratchets that I love and put the rest in my wallet!
LumpyMusic
Well-known member
Joined this forum just to read the Freight By The Bay thread. Only up to pg 91 and having a blast. I'm a HF tool *****.
Lumpy (Apparently there's more than one?)
You Played on Lawrence Welk?
Yes but no blue notes. Just blue hairs.
Lumpy (Apparently there's more than one?)
You Played on Lawrence Welk?
Yes but no blue notes. Just blue hairs.
the magnet is stronger than the glue that holds it to the light. prepare to re-glue it back on.
Links??? Pictures??? Please?
rcozzo
Well-known member
Same here. The magnet stayed on my tool box the first time I took it off. Fortunately I had also bought the three super glue tubes for $0.99. A couple drops fixed it right up. Decent light for $3.
emeraldcoupe
Well-known member
the one i use has held up good so far. maybe you got a bad one.
OK, yeah thanks! I'd love to see an artist using that with all six colors on a rush-redo-Monday morning job! Talk about possible snags and tangles and dryn' clogged tips and lots of cussin'!
10" Sliding Miter Saw: FAIL
I bought one of these last year that worked fine, but I got rid of it. Anyway I needed a sliding saw again so I bought another one. It's noticeably different in some respects, though I can't really say what's changed--like the plastic arrows, the appearance of some parts, stuff like that. It appears to be another production run with some minor changes. But:
1) The blade guard prevents the saw from chopping. You have to manually move it up an inch or so before you can pull the saw down. Yes, I tried to adjust it to no avail. And
2) The plastic piece that lets you change the angle stretched out and you have to lift up the saw and manually pull the rod back to change the angle.
Did not have these problems with the original one.
I bought one of these last year that worked fine, but I got rid of it. Anyway I needed a sliding saw again so I bought another one. It's noticeably different in some respects, though I can't really say what's changed--like the plastic arrows, the appearance of some parts, stuff like that. It appears to be another production run with some minor changes. But:
1) The blade guard prevents the saw from chopping. You have to manually move it up an inch or so before you can pull the saw down. Yes, I tried to adjust it to no avail. And
2) The plastic piece that lets you change the angle stretched out and you have to lift up the saw and manually pull the rod back to change the angle.
Did not have these problems with the original one.
subarub4
Well-known member
I have a question about the 1.5 ton jack does the handle come off? I don't think I've ever seen a picture with it detached..
diggerrick
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- Dec 1, 2010
- Messages
- 996
I couldn't agree more.
I've had the HF prybars for years, and they worked fine for most of what I was doing, but seemed kind springy as mentioned. Still well worth the $5 or $6 I paid for them. After looking at the C-Man set when they were on sale over the winter, I picked them up - what a HUGE difference!
I also have the 3pc black & yellow set that are smaller, but have striking caps. Also kinda flimsy, but work for light duty stuff - mostly molding & trim removal for me.
I WILL pick up the C-Man set w/striking caps when they go on sale again.
Big Johnson
Well-known member
- Joined
- May 1, 2012
- Messages
- 142
Picked it up today. Made In Taiwan. 20%discount $6.39 and gave me free set of cheap screwdrivers. Quality, looks better than the C-man equivalent I was looking at.
http://www.harborfreight.com/universal-3-jaw-adjustable-oil-filter-wrench-99629.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/universal-3-jaw-adjustable-oil-filter-wrench-99629.html
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LumpyMusic
Well-known member
26 inch red roller cab with top chest -
http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-t...er-cabinet-with-8-drawer-top-chest-67831.html
Item - PASS
Nice and heavy steel. Casters seem good. I don't feel the need to replace. Gloss red finish is good, covers everywhere. Checked the bolts on the casters and a random couple here and there. All seem assembled well. Not over or under torqued. Hydraulic open/closer in the top chest works smoothly. Drawers all slide very nicely, don't budge under my attempts to weigh them down with some of my upper body weight/strength push/pull.
Employees - FAIL
I had to beat them over the head to take my money. The box was not in stock.
"Sell me the floor model"
""We can't do that. Cause then we wouldn't have one to show customers""
"But you don't have the item available, why do you need to show customers?"
""It's just a corporate rule""
"Look, you have the option here of making $350 from me right now or making $0 from me right now. In either case you make $0 from any future customers since you don't have it in stock till it gets restocked from your warehouse"
""Well, ok you can buy the floor model but it's as-is""
So I guess it's really not a corporate rule after all. "As is" for a tool box I'm going to make them open before loading it into my truck seems like it's exactly what I want.
This HF is the smallest of the local HFs, and the closest to me. They're becoming increasingly lower and lower on stock of all kinds of stuff. I may have to start driving across town, additional 50+ miles round trip just to get them to take my money.
Lumpy
You were on CHiPs? Did you wear those ****
tight pants and high boots like Erik Estrada?
No. Swimtrunks.
www.LumpyMusic.com
http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-t...er-cabinet-with-8-drawer-top-chest-67831.html
Item - PASS
Nice and heavy steel. Casters seem good. I don't feel the need to replace. Gloss red finish is good, covers everywhere. Checked the bolts on the casters and a random couple here and there. All seem assembled well. Not over or under torqued. Hydraulic open/closer in the top chest works smoothly. Drawers all slide very nicely, don't budge under my attempts to weigh them down with some of my upper body weight/strength push/pull.
Employees - FAIL
I had to beat them over the head to take my money. The box was not in stock.
"Sell me the floor model"
""We can't do that. Cause then we wouldn't have one to show customers""
"But you don't have the item available, why do you need to show customers?"
""It's just a corporate rule""
"Look, you have the option here of making $350 from me right now or making $0 from me right now. In either case you make $0 from any future customers since you don't have it in stock till it gets restocked from your warehouse"
""Well, ok you can buy the floor model but it's as-is""
So I guess it's really not a corporate rule after all. "As is" for a tool box I'm going to make them open before loading it into my truck seems like it's exactly what I want.
This HF is the smallest of the local HFs, and the closest to me. They're becoming increasingly lower and lower on stock of all kinds of stuff. I may have to start driving across town, additional 50+ miles round trip just to get them to take my money.
Lumpy
You were on CHiPs? Did you wear those ****
tight pants and high boots like Erik Estrada?
No. Swimtrunks.
www.LumpyMusic.com
Anyone have a coupon for this face shield http://www.harborfreight.com/adjustable-face-shield-46526.html
i just got a horzontal band saw well see how it does. do you guys usually get the two year warranty? the guy was telling me you can swap it out in two years even if its not broken for a new one if you get the warranty. but i wanted to keep it at 200 so i passed.