The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread...

[RCStocker]

I am looking for feedback on the framing nailers?

http://www.harborfreight.com/10-gauge-3-in-1-air-framing-nailer-98751.html

http://www.harborfreight.com/21-angle-framing-nailer-68028.html

http://www.harborfreight.com/28-angle-framing-nailer-68068.html

I have been pretty happy with all the other nail guns I have purchased from them and hoping these work as well.

Any reason to go with one angle over the other? Any coupons other than the 20% that expires Friday?

The only framing nail gun to buy is the Hitachi. It is the best one made. I have several of them, I have several Sinco and a Porter Cables frame gun.
They all work but the PC double shoots and has an adapter you can buy to stop it form happening. They did, I think they have changed the design now.

Sinco is the only other brand I would buy. You can get kits to repair them.
I have 40 guns or more. My Bostch are ok but I am not a fan.

I have finish gungs, deck nailers, staple guns and I like Sinco the best and have been uing them for over 30 years. All the construction workers will tell you Hitachi fram nailer is the only one to buy. If you are a home user a lesser brand will do ok. Look into what the product cost. HF nailers were **** when they first came out and I would not buy them at any price. The cheap guns jam ware out and do not hold up.

 

[SunsetsAndFriends]

The only framing nail gun to buy is the Hitachi. It is the best one made. I have several of them, I have several Sinco and a Porter Cables frame gun.
They all work but the PC double shoots and has an adapter you can buy to stop it form happening. They did, I think they have changed the design now.

Sinco is the only other brand I would buy. You can get kits to repair them.
I have 40 guns or more. My Bostch are ok but I am not a fan.

I have finish gungs, deck nailers, staple guns and I like Sinco the best and have been uing them for over 30 years. All the construction workers will tell you Hitachi fram nailer is the only one to buy. If you are a home user a lesser brand will do ok. Look into what the product cost. HF nailers were **** when they first came out and I would not buy them at any price. The cheap guns jam ware out and do not hold up.

I purchased the HF 3-in-1 Framing Nailer item #98751 (pictured below). It seemed to work okay for a few nails but after a clip and a half it jammed. I was able to un-jam. Then it jammed again. This time it was very difficult to remedy. That's when I decided to return it for my money back. I hadn't put more than a couple dozen nails through it.

Most of my purchases from HF have been descent. Not this one. Fail.

 

[Tim The Tool Man]

1/2" to 1" Ratcheting Pipe Threader Set #94101

I'm going to give this a PASS. At the end of the day, with proper lubrication, I was able to thread 7 or 8 pipe ends today. To start the threads were quite a challenge. My dad helped out by pressing the threader into the pipe end while I ratcheted so it would finally bite. Sure, not ideal to require two people, but it did get the job done. Also backed off often to break free the steel windings.

I bought one of these a few months ago in their damaged/clearance section. The tag said it was missing a die but when I got it home everything was there.

Anyhow I have used it many times now and would highly recommend it for the casual user. So PASS. I threaded a bunch of 1" pipe, about 8 - 12 pipes, and aside from the first pipe being hard to start, went like a breeze. I figured it was hard to start because my pipe cutter left a little ridge on the end of the pipe so I took a hand file to knock of the ridge and that did the trick. I also had to back off at least once per thread to break free the steel windings.

The 1/2" & 3/4" threaders all worked fine the times I've needed them.

 

[cheechi]

Has anyone tried item 68029 the 20 gauge wide crown stapler?

Yes, I have two. One from a sidewalk sale, one new. They both work well, jam very infrequently (the last staple or two, like all staplers) and in general are just fine.

The only issue you may come across is the staples for that size. They are the same as for a Surebonder 9610 or Cman 18170. I know this because when I found some that fit, I found any other stapler locally that they would also fit, in case they turned out to be ****. HF sold a bunch that didn't fit before, but now they have some that do in 1000 packs, so be very careful. 66022, 66023, 66025 should work, though I have seen two kinds in the store only. I went through my receipts to try to get you what part # I bought to work with it, can't read it sorry.

 

[rlitman]

8-Ounce Solid Brass Carpenter's Dreidel - FAIL

The stupid thing made my lose all my chocolate coins. Probably because one of the letters is printed backwards.

 

[RAYJAY]

8-Ounce Solid Brass Carpenter's Dreidel - FAIL

The stupid thing made my lose all my chocolate coins. Probably because one of the letters is printed backwards.

nice review its bad because one of the letters is backward we do try to review tool that HF does make .....

 

[MNRZR]

nice review its bad because one of the letters is backward we do try to review tool that HF does make .....

I think he is referring to the brass carpenter's dreidel in this ad:

Hazard Farught Tools

Item WH6480 6" Whale-Cutting Knife: Fail. Won't keep an edge long enough to process a Beluga.

 

[sjlee]

I have the US General 5-drawer tool cart and am interested in getting drawer organizers.

It sounds like the organizers are a PASS, but I don't know which (if any) will fit my drawers. Can anyone with the same tool cart please let me know if they'll work for me?

I see that they offer three different organizer sets:

1. 3 piece drawer set
http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/organizers/3-piece-drawer-organizer-set-99731.html

2. 6 compartment drawer organizer
http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/organizers/6-compartment-drawer-organizer-99729.html

3. 11 compartment drawer organizer
http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/organizers/11-compartment-drawer-organizer-99730.html

All three say that they'll fit in the 13-drawer tool chest, but nothing about if they'll fit in their other tool chests/cabinets/carts.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[cheechi]

3 piece set fits in the wider drawers of the 44" bottom side by side by side. It's designed for that size. You can get the other two (both the same area) into the drawer width wise, which leaves you room in front or back for other tools or things.

Both the 6 & 11 will fit in any 26" drawer, and in the less deep top/middle chests they will be pretty close to exactly the drawer area. This is true for both my Husky & Kobalts. I like them well enough but not for tools, they are my parts drawers.

 

[FiendFX]

1/2" Long breaker bar PASS
Doctor mask PASS
3 lbs Hammer PASS
3/8 impact socket PASS
Air Nozzle Gun to weak FAIL
$3 screwdriver set PASS

 

[carterbeauford]

http://www.harborfreight.com/2-piece-3-4-quarter-inch-heavy-duty-cast-iron-pipe-clamp-31255.html

3/4" heavy duty pipe clamps: PASS. I used a pair to try to straighten the frame on a John Deere disc, took the handle off and used a crescent wrench and they actually bent the 3/4" pipe.

 

[tenchu]

1/2" Long breaker bar PASS
Doctor mask PASS
3 lbs Hammer PASS
3/8 impact socket PASS
Air Nozzle Gun to weak FAIL
$3 screwdriver set PASS

Which air gun did you get?

 

[gatewaysysop]

500 Lb. Capacity Hydraulic Table Cart : PASS!!!

Got one of these as a gift to help load and unload some of big'un vises that are too much for one person to handle. Works like a dream, raises quick and lowers very smoothly, even with hundreds of pounds on it. Managed my big 300 lb., 8" Athol vise like a champ!

The thing is well built, surprisingly so for HF, and feels very sturdy. Casters seem to be of pretty good quality as well.

FYI - Mine is yellow, but the website is showing it in orange now. I can only vouch for the yellow one.

 

[rlitman]

Which air gun did you get?

I don't know about him, but about a year ago, I got several that looked like #68258 except they only came with the tube end, for a buck each on sale.
There really can't be anything other than bird saliva gluing those tubes in. They've all shot right out within a few minutes of use.

 

[O_M_Jeep]

I have both of these and they have worked for the last 4 years, I grab them nearly daily. Have to give them both a PASS since everytime I use them they work flawlesly.

 

[rwhughe]

http://www.harborfreight.com/800-rated-watts-900-max-watts-portable-generator-66619.html

Is a fail. I have had 3 of these and they all have failed the same way. After a month or so of sitting around unused the ignition fails, can't really tell if it is the coil or the trigger module. They also have quite a spread of capabilities. The first one would run a 1/4hp compressor with no sag at all when the compressor started and even run my skil saw. The second one would barely handle the compressor and just quit when I tried the saw. The third one handled the compressor with some sag at startup and loaded way down when I tried the saw. Maybe I can salvage the generator for some other use.

 

[rwhughe]

http://www.harborfreight.com/15-hp-gasoline-auger-drill-67414.html

That is 1.5hp actually and this one is a major pass. I broke mine in by drilling about 100 holes in gumbo clay to hell excavate a hole big enough to plant a tree in and it had no problems. It worked so well with the 4in auger that I went back and got the 6in auger and it handles that with no problems either. If you have ever used a post hole digger to put a fence post hole in clay being able to put a 4 - 6in hole 2 ft deep in about 20 seconds is a real kick.

 

[Kev442]

http://www.harborfreight.com/800-rated-watts-900-max-watts-portable-generator-66619.html

Is a fail. I have had 3 of these and they all have failed the same way. After a month or so of sitting around unused the ignition fails, can't really tell if it is the coil or the trigger module. They also have quite a spread of capabilities. The first one would run a 1/4hp compressor with no sag at all when the compressor started and even run my skil saw. The second one would barely handle the compressor and just quit when I tried the saw. The third one handled the compressor with some sag at startup and loaded way down when I tried the saw. Maybe I can salvage the generator for some other use.

I think you killed them.

800 watts is roughly 7 amps. A circular saw would be a minimum of 1000 watts, more like 1200-1400. Unless you meant a recip saw, which would start around 800 watts for a cheap HF saw and go higher for a quality saw.

 

[Dustball]

I think you killed them.

800 watts is roughly 7 amps. A circular saw would be a minimum of 1000 watts, more like 1200-1400. Unless you meant a recip saw, which would start around 800 watts for a cheap HF saw and go higher for a quality saw.

I agree- the generator is far undersized for what's being asked of it.

 

[rwhughe]

Well, actually the skil saw was a Craftsman and just a quick test. In any case I don't think any kind of generator load is going to hurt the ignition, especially not when it is sitting around not running. You did notice that the failure in all three cases was the ignition system of the engine?

 

[diggerrick]

Anyone try the Wireless Winch Remote yet?

I have one of the old camo wireless winches that works great for light duty stuff (like pulling things onto my 4x8 utility trailer, etc.). The wireless remote looks like a perfect upgrade to the Superwinch on the race car trailer. The sale flyer says it works with most other brands, but the website does not say the same.

http://www.harborfreight.com/merchandising-promotions/merchandising/2012-ise/10-2-12-fall-super-sale/wireless-winch-remote-control-69229.html

For less than $18 ($22 sale price + 20% coupon) it's worth a try.

I remember seeing a similar universal wireless winch remote in car magazine ads a few years ago for $100, but then they kinda disappeared.

 

[Provincial]

It looks like the wireless winch control is designed to plug into a socket on the Badland winches. If your winch has the same socket and it is wired the same, it should be plug-and-play. If not, you may have to do some wiring/replacement plug work to adapt it.

The control should close circuits for in/out. It could be either 3-wire (common ground) or 4-wire (separate grounds). Look at your winch and count the terminals in the plug.

 

[O_M_Jeep]

counting the terminals in the plug wont work, most winch plugs use up to 7 wires, but only 3 or 4 are active, on Badlnad winches the screws to remove the control box cover are on the bottom, bad design that, on Smitty's, RR, Superwinch and the like the screws are on the side, either way you can look at the wiring fairly simply by opening the control box. On Badlands, be careful to remove the srews that are recessed in the bottom, the others just hold the control module to the inside of the box.

 

[123Go]

Sorry guys' this thread is a run a way train! We need some part numbers along with these posts. We all know HF changes models/suppliers fast but we might get a better chance with some part numbers to varify whats what? I know they also change the part without changing part numbers for it too {should be illegal, call your congressman, call mine too whoever he is} lol

Just saying 'try" posting some part numbers when we can because I've seen part numbers change and the item looks exactly the same outside. Pics only help so much but keep them coming too....

Its a battle everytime that boat docks. Hummm? How come thier ship is reliable enough to make all these trips here? Sure built it good!
Thanks everyone

 

[bcradio]

Sorry guys' this thread is a run a way train! We need some part numbers along with these posts. We all know HF changes models/suppliers fast but we might get a better chance with some part numbers to varify whats what? I know they also change the part without changing part numbers for it too {should be illegal, call your congressman, call mine too whoever he is} lol

Just saying 'try" posting some part numbers when we can because I've seen part numbers change and the item looks exactly the same outside. Pics only help so much but keep them coming too....

Its a battle everytime that boat docks. Hummm? How come thier ship is reliable enough to make all these trips here? Sure built it good!
Thanks everyone

Huh?

 

[bowmard]

I too bought a HF end box for the same reasons, plus one: the HF store had them in stock whereas Sears would have had to order their much more expensive Craftsman end box. I am very happy with the HF end box, and now am trying to justify the pruchase of the roll around and top box. I've been a Craftsman guy for years but these HF big boxes are great.

 

[O_M_Jeep]

I would like a part number for the winch remote if anyone has it, seems even google doesnt know where to find them.

 

[kossuth]

Back on track....

12 ton shop press PASS
Item # 33497 works well for what it is. I have rebuilt the T56 transmission in my S10 with no issue other than having to rig up a way to support the ****** being the holes in the unit didn't go low enough.

800 lbs transmission jack PASS FOR NOW.
Only used once so the jury is still out on the long term quality of it. Reason for going this route is I had a transmission come off a floor jack and smash my right arm many years ago when I was young and stupid doing that kind of work using a floor jack. Requiring alot of surgery, titanium rods, screws, and therapy to get that arm/hand working about 80% again. Never was right after that. Item # 3185.

 

[firebox40dash5]

It looks like the wireless winch control is designed to plug into a socket on the Badland winches. If your winch has the same socket and it is wired the same, it should be plug-and-play. If not, you may have to do some wiring/replacement plug work to adapt it.

The control should close circuits for in/out. It could be either 3-wire (common ground) or 4-wire (separate grounds). Look at your winch and count the terminals in the plug.

I've never seen a winch that switches polarity (like the stupid 2-wire lock actuators in my truck) to switch direction, so at the simplest, it's a matter of 12V in, and 12V out to either in or out... SPDT switch. Obviously the wireless setup will need a ground, too. It's as simple as lopping the plug off, giving the box a power and ground, and figuring out which of the remaining wires is for in and which is for out. Just splice 'em to the solenoid/contactor terminals, just like the controller plug. I'd give it a try for $20... if I do, I'll post it here!

 

[subarub4]

I've used a 1,500 W oven on it, it will hold but it was only for a short amount of time around 10 min. I've got about 32 hours on mine

 

[subarub4]

Yes, I have two. One from a sidewalk sale, one new. They both work well, jam very infrequently (the last staple or two, like all staplers) and in general are just fine.

The only issue you may come across is the staples for that size. They are the same as for a Surebonder 9610 or Cman 18170. I know this because when I found some that fit, I found any other stapler locally that they would also fit, in case they turned out to be ****. HF sold a bunch that didn't fit before, but now they have some that do in 1000 packs, so be very careful. 66022, 66023, 66025 should work, though I have seen two kinds in the store only. I went through my receipts to try to get you what part # I bought to work with it, can't read it sorry.

Thanks!

 

[cheechi]

No problem. Has anyone bought the flex head ratcheting wrenches? (68953 & 68955) What I'm specifically interested in is if the hinges stay 'stiff' for any length of time or if they get wobbly/loose and won't stay where you need. They seem ok in the store but so did the Gearwrench ones, but they went flaccid after a few uses.

 

[diggerrick]

I would like a part number for the winch remote if anyone has it, seems even google doesnt know where to find them.

Click on the link in my original post:

http://www.harborfreight.com/wireless-winch-remote-control-69229.html

 

[O_M_Jeep]

Click on the link in my original post:

http://www.harborfreight.com/merchandising-promotions/merchandising/2012-ise/10-2-12-fall-super-sale/wireless-winch-remote-control-69229.html?hftref=cj

Awesome, thank you

 

[PaulR]

Tried a search on this thread, but didnt come up with any hits...

Does anyone have thier 50ft Retractable air hose reel?

http://www.harborfreight.com/50-ft-...ose-reel-with-3-8-eighth-inch-hose-93897.html

Also, does this ever go on those 'super coupon' deals (i dont recall ever seeing one for it) or is the 20% off coupon the best I will get?

Thanks!

Update: 1 year of light duty homeowner use and mine is busted. Worked well until that point. Now it retracts, gets about 15 feet of hose left on it and will not reel it in anymore. I've not yet taken it apart to see if there is a spring-type deal that can be repaired.

 

[IONH]

Update: 1 year of light duty homeowner use and mine is busted. Worked well until that point. Now it retracts, gets about 15 feet of hose left on it and will not reel it in anymore. I've not yet taken it apart to see if there is a spring-type deal that can be repaired.

I've had mine for 4 years under light use and it is still as strong as ever. Same original hose too and I sometimes pull it upwards of 30 feet away from the reel.

 

[onelochevy]

Texture Gun

http://www.harborfreight.com/texture-paint-spray-gun-66103.html

PASS. Remodeled my master bath and used it to texture the walls. Worked perfectly. Can't beat paying $25 from HF over the $90 that Home Depot wants for theirs.

 

[bimmerZ5]

Texture Gun

http://www.harborfreight.com/texture-paint-spray-gun-66103.html

PASS. Remodeled my master bath and used it to texture the walls. Worked perfectly. Can't beat paying $25 from HF over the $90 that Home Depot wants for theirs.

i have that texture sprayer too... used it to fix up several patches when i had to cut into my walls for in-wall audio/video wiring. it works, but i wish the air wasn't constantly on when you connect the hose. is that normal for a texture sprayer? i wish the trigger also actuated a valve to control the air or something...

 

[Tribalvision]

Update: 1 year of light duty homeowner use and mine is busted. Worked well until that point. Now it retracts, gets about 15 feet of hose left on it and will not reel it in anymore. I've not yet taken it apart to see if there is a spring-type deal that can be repaired.

I've used mine in heavy commercial use and it has held up fine. I did finally have your issue last year. I think the spring stretched or something. What I did was remove the hose stop, pull the hose thru the guide, then pull the hose out those 15 feet. Then wrap the hose around the reel until theres a short lead. Then put it back thru the guide and install the stopper again. It will be fine.

 

[cheechi]

Batteries & adapter, item 67858. Partial pass. Nothing wrong with them, but they're overpriced for my purpose since I only wanted the adapters.

I added them to my misc this month to get to the $100 needed for the 20% coupon.

I have nice Eneloop rechargeables already. There are several of these adapters on amazon & ebay, in addition to the Eneloop brand ones, but with mixed reviews and varying price points, I decided to get something I could try & return if they didn't work. They make any AA batteries fit in devices where C's are meant. I've only tried them in one flashlight but they do work and it's my only need for them.