The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread...

[emeraldcoupe]

shop towels, pack of 50- PASS

been using them for a while and they hold up great. can't beat the price.

http://www.harborfreight.com/pack-o...m=email&utm_campaign=1014_PLS&utm_source=1021

 

[bhays]

66686 Front End Service Tool Set - Pass

I got this set and within 15 minutes had a tie rod end and ball joint popped that I had been fighting for hours. The only one in the store was missing the cardboard sleeve and had a broken tab on the plastic case so they gave me 25% off, plus I had a super coupon for another 25% off so only $40!

 

[signcrafter]

shop towels, pack of 50- PASS

been using them for a while and they hold up great. can't beat the price.

http://www.harborfreight.com/pack-o...m=email&utm_campaign=1014_PLS&utm_source=1021

these are nice to wipe your hands with but they don't soak up any liquids good.

 

[AlwaysInTraining]

Just picked up a 1/4inch air ratchet. Opened up the package, no air inlet. Papers say it comes with it. Little irritated but hopefully theyll make it right. Ill report back.

Grand Rapids, MI

 

[cheechi]

Which ratchet? Most HF air tools do not come with an air fitting. Go with the flow on GJ and get the Miltons.

I have many HF air fittings and in my personal garage they do the job.

 

[FOCUS.FREAK]

When I bought my impact it didn't come with one

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[SteevoLS]

I just bought 2 impacts and a ratchet last week... No fittings either.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

 

[cagullett1]

Which ratchet? Most HF air tools do not come with an air fitting. Go with the flow on GJ and get the Miltons.

I have many HF air fittings and in my personal garage they do the job.

Does HF sell Milton fittings!?

 

[SteevoLS]

No, but Northern Tool does. http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200319817_200319817

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[treimers]

Glad to hear that -

I just picked one up to remove the crank bolt from my
Nissan, where I'm about to do the front seal.
Hopefully I can use that to get it off.

I don't know where I can get a pulley strap wrench from that
is strong enough to strap down to the frame.
HF has them, but they don't look like the right thing...

PASS

1/2 in. Professional Air Impact Wrench
Central Pneumatic Earthquake - item#68424

Bought this on sale with coupon last month for $69. I put it through the test for about 30 days of continuous use on the job doing tire work at Firestone. I did not baby it at all. Zipped lugs off 150# torqued truck wheels all day. I oiled it at least every other day. The only complaint was from the tech next to me borrowed it to rotate some wheels and he said OMG you must have forearms of steel this thing is ******* heavy. OK it does weigh a ton compared to his titanium IR gun and also a lot heavier compared to my CP 734 gun. But it really whips the lamas ***! Being so heavy I will keep it at home for side jobs.

 

[cheechi]

I was making a comparison, according to GJ Milton V are made of solid gold and HF are made of solid ****.

 

[pedrodagr8]

Harbor Freight Stainless Steel 6" Digital Caliper

http://www.harborfreight.com/6-digital-caliper-with-metric-and-sae-fractional-readings-68304.html

PASS

I picked this up for $15 because I wanted a metal one. It has a resolution of 0.01mm/0.0005" resolution and an accuracy of +/-0.02mm/0.001". A guy on eevblog tipped me off to using NEW coins as size standards.

http://www.usmint.gov/about_the_mint/index.cfm?action=Coin_specifications

I had five brand NEW pennies and they read basically perfect (accurate to the full 0.01mm resolution) on all measurements but one which was off by 0.01mm. I emphasize new because some older pennies were off by up to 0.1mm.

Some images of me measuring a resistor.

I dint have any pics of me measuring the coins because of bad lighting.

Also this caliper has a data port available. Allowing for digitized measurements.

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[Provincial]

these are nice to wipe your hands with but they don't soak up any liquids good.

I have bought new shop towels before (from HF and elsewhere) that were not very absorbent, but after the first run through the washer absorbed just as well as any shop towel. There was something imbedded in the fabric that filled the pores, probably lubricant from the looms.

If the fabric is thin, it won't absorb much, even when washed. A pack of HF "surgical towels" were the most absorbent shop rags I have used, second only to terrycloth towels, which isn't a fair comparison.

 

[sjlee]

Anyone try the smaller 13-gal dust collector (1 HP)?

http://www.harborfreight.com/13-gallon-industrial-portable-dust-collector-31810.html#.Ux3Qr_ldXYg

I don't really have a dedicated workshop, so I don't have room for a bigger dust collection system. I'm looking for one that I can connect to one tool at a time (mainly my miter saw since that's what's creating the most dust right now).

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[cagullett1]

Anyone try the smaller 13-gal dust collector (1 HP)?

http://www.harborfreight.com/13-gallon-industrial-portable-dust-collector-31810.html#.Ux3Qr_ldXYg

I don't really have a dedicated workshop, so I don't have room for a bigger dust collection system. I'm looking for one that I can connect to one tool at a time (mainly my miter saw since that's what's creating the most dust right now).

Thanks in advance for any advice.

It's not bad, but if you have a shop vac and are looking to save space, get a dust deputy. I sold my dust collector because it took up too much room and a dust deputy/shopvac combo did the job just as well. I built a small cart so that they are sitting right next to eachother at all times.

 

[b-body-bob]

4KW max Predator generator - PASS

Ridiculously difficult to get to the oil to check, add, or drain. I turned it up on its side to fill, and ended up with too much oil (spills out when I remove the dipstick)

The extra cost wheel kit needs better wheels, they're plastic and aren't going to last. With steps, ledges, etc, the wheel center is eventually going to bust out. Hopefully I can match up something better to fit the axles provided when they break.

Other than that, it started, ran about all weekend, and is fairly quiet all things considered.

 

[sjlee]

It's not bad, but if you have a shop vac and are looking to save space, get a dust deputy. I sold my dust collector because it took up too much room and a dust deputy/shopvac combo did the job just as well. I built a small cart so that they are sitting right next to eachother at all times.

Thanks for the idea. I'm not sure if I can get the Dust Deputy around here locally, but I hadn't thought about connecting my wet/dry vac as a dust collector.

If nothing else, I'll get a better filter for it and get an adapter to connect it directly to my tools.

 

[cagullett1]

Thanks for the idea. I'm not sure if I can get the Dust Deputy around here locally, but I hadn't thought about connecting my wet/dry vac as a dust collector.

If nothing else, I'll get a better filter for it and get an adapter to connect it directly to my tools.

I got my dust deputy from Woodcraft locally. Amazon sells them as well.

Edit: I forgot to add, you will go through filters pretty fast without using a system like the DD.

 

[djjlm]

Update : some things i forgot to post or got right after my first post

6.5 HP (212cc) OHV Horizontal Shaft Gas Engine - i have had the old blue greyhound one for about 3 years now, gov removed, straight pipe and aftermarket filter, its on a racing go kart and is revved to around 7k rpm with some valve springs. Cylinder still looks brand new, will take pics if interested. HUGE PASS
http://www.harborfreight.com/65-hp-212cc-ohv-horizontal-shaft-gas-engine-69730.html#.Ux4Fxxb7UzZ

13 Piece 1/2" Drive SAE Deep Wall Impact Socket Set - Have this and metric, used constantly for taking lugs off, work perfect, and only 19.99 a set on the parking lot sale days. only complaint is in the standard set i got two 1/2" sockets instead of one 1/2" and one 9/16, PASS
http://www.harborfreight.com/13-pie...all-impact-socket-set-69280.html#.Ux4FYRb7UzY

High Speed Metal Saw - Horrible, had a leak out of the box and when i depressed the lever, it was a 10 dollar air blower. MAJOR FAIL
http://www.harborfreight.com/high-speed-metal-saw-60568.html#.Ux4F9Rb7UzY

Air Angle Die Grinder - works great, havent had it for too long but put a wire brush on it and removed tons of paint with it, probably about 8 hours run time on it, only complaint is it exhausts toward you so if you put in alot of oil expect to be wearing it, so far PASS
http://www.harborfreight.com/air-angle-die-grinder-32046.html#.Ux4GWxb7UzY

Torque wrenches (all three 1/4 3/8 1/2) - work perfect, cheap, 9.99 each so im happy, PASS
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-2-half-inch-drive-click-type-torque-wrench-239.html#.Ux4Ihhb7UzY
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-drive-click-type-torque-wrench-807.html#.Ux4InRb7UzY
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-drive-click-type-torque-wrench-2696.html#.Ux4IsBb7UzY

Im wondering how their hex sockets and star sockets hold up, and also their impact hex sockets. I heard they were good, Thanks.

 

[losabio]

Im wondering how their hex sockets and star sockets hold up, and also their impact hex sockets. I heard they were good, Thanks.

I have the metric hex (3/8" and 1/2" mixed) and Torx (1/4" and 3/8" mixed) sockets, and they've held up just fine for my at-home repairs on a couple of VWs (timing belt, axle replacement, brakes, struts/shocks). Those two sets have S2 bits and CR-V sockets and are made in Taiwan.

I upgraded to the HF metric hex bits after a set of USA CM hex bits rounded out in a hurry. After I saw how well the HF hex bits held up, it was a no-brainer to pick up the Torx bits from there too, when in the course of time I needed them.

 

[djjlm]

I have the metric hex (3/8" and 1/2" mixed) and Torx (1/4" and 3/8" mixed) sockets, and they've held up just fine for my at-home repairs on a couple of VWs (timing belt, axle replacement, brakes, struts/shocks). Those two sets have S2 bits and CR-V sockets and are made in Taiwan.

I upgraded to the HF metric hex bits after a set of USA CM hex bits rounded out in a hurry. After I saw how well the HF hex bits held up, it was a no-brainer to pick up the Torx bits from there too, when in the course of time I needed them.

Thank you, i needed someone to confirm that they were quality, I appreciate it.

 

[RSVRMAN]

Searched "Oil Extractor" and didn't find anything.

After last years mess... and hour of hand pumping. I need one of these for changing my boat oil. May use for cars as well.

Any comments?

http://www.harborfreight.com/6-1-4-quarter-gallon-oil-extractor-46149.html#.Ux4hpvldUk0

 

[paigej]

Does HF sell Milton fittings!?

do you mean these?

 

[cheechi]

High Speed Metal Saw - Horrible, had a leak out of the box and when i depressed the lever, it was a 10 dollar air blower. MAJOR FAIL
http://www.harborfreight.com/high-speed-metal-saw-60568.html#.Ux4F9Rb7UzY

It took me 3 or 4 attempts to find one that didn't leak or that didn't have a broken trigger out of the box. When I know I'm going to buy an air tool at HF I bring the wrench roll, pancake compressor and tape and I make sure it's good before leaving the parking lot.

I did eventually get a good one of those saws. Used it twice but for long time each time. Was worth a little effort for what I needed.

 

[treblarefils]

Just used these HF locking extensions MAC knock offs to change spark plugs on a 1993 Lexus ES300 without headaches. Paid for itself with one use. If anyone knows these cars clearances are really tight and the sockets always fall in the holes. Was able to do all 6 in about 35 mins no issue except for laying across my engine bay lol. Im sure these will come in handy in the future.

 

[djjlm]

It took me 3 or 4 attempts to find one that didn't leak or that didn't have a broken trigger out of the box. When I know I'm going to buy an air tool at HF I bring the wrench roll, pancake compressor and tape and I make sure it's good before leaving the parking lot.

I did eventually get a good one of those saws. Used it twice but for long time each time. Was worth a little effort for what I needed.

Glad to hear you got a good working one, i bought it as a spur of the moment thing because i had 9.99 coupon in my pocket, i will probably just buy an IR when i need it, but its always nice to see HF's quality control in action.

 

[Engine]

Has anyone used the 6 Drawer Top Chest U.S. General - item#67423 tool chest?

I can't find any info on it here. The one review on HF's site says it does not have ball bearing slides. That may not be good.

 

[ibedayank]

Has anyone used the 6 Drawer Top Chest U.S. General - item#67423 tool chest?

I can't find any info on it here. The one review on HF's site says it does not have ball bearing slides. That may not be good.

much better boxes available elsewhere for about the same $$$
Have the whole stack at work for specialized tools that are not used much

 

[dankicksass]

Has anyone used the 6 Drawer Top Chest U.S. General - item#67423 tool chest?

I can't find any info on it here. The one review on HF's site says it does not have ball bearing slides. That may not be good.

That's part of combo 67421 which is generally regarded as not very good.

 

[Sleipnir]

Those boxes arent part of what people tend to consider their good boxes. The orangered ones seem to be awesome but I dont think they sell a seperate top box. I'd love for em to cuz I just want the 26" roller bottom

 

[Jasonfi]

Those boxes arent part of what people tend to consider their good boxes. The orangered ones seem to be awesome but I dont think they sell a seperate top box. I'd love for em to cuz I just want the 26" roller bottom

I have two of those boxes and I personally don't have any issues with them. I know they are cheap, but just like anything if you take care of it, it will last. I just don't see spending a lot of money for a box to hold tools. I would rather spend that money to buy more tools

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[owenst7]

Has anyone used the 6 Drawer Top Chest U.S. General - item#67423 tool chest?

I can't find any info on it here. The one review on HF's site says it does not have ball bearing slides. That may not be good.

I recently gave mine to a friend that I had picked up cheap in Craig's list when I first moved to reno. I would compare it in quality to the cman quietglide I also have. I don't think the top is worth $100, but I've seen the whole set on sale for around $150, which I would do if I needed storage for stuff I didn't use much, or if it was all I could afford.

They are friction slides, but they do have locking casters, which my quiet glide does not. The finish is also more durable than the cman ****.

 

[Jasonfi]

I recently gave mine to a friend that I had picked up cheap in Craig's list when I first moved to reno. I would compare it in quality to the cman quietglide I also have. I don't think the top is worth $100, but I've seen the whole set on sale for around $150, which I would do if I needed storage for stuff I didn't use much, or if it was all I could afford.

They are friction slides, but they do have locking casters, which my quiet glide does not. The finish is also more durable than the cman ****.

Not being ball bearings for the drawers isn't a issue. I have one drawer filled with heavy impact tools and the drawer opens with ease. The key is to lube the sliders on the drawer and they will work flawlessly. Also you are right 100.00 is way too much for the top box. I paid 149.99 for the complete set.

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[cburnscrx]

Just used these HF locking extensions MAC knock offs to change spark plugs on a 1993 Lexus ES300 without headaches. Paid for itself with one use. If anyone knows these cars clearances are really tight and the sockets always fall in the holes. Was able to do all 6 in about 35 mins no issue except for laying across my engine bay lol. Im sure these will come in handy in the future.

I have them too, and they work. Quite well actually. Item# 67976

http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-38-drive-uick-release-extension-bar-set-67976.html

 

[cheechi]

I worked for a company that bought a lot of those to use as part of in-wall storage in our workshop, and some in-vehicle storage due to the light weight. I think you got a rare good one. Most of these boxes aren't square, don't sit flat, and one corner of the drawers always sticking out even when locked. Happens on top, mid & bottom, you will always have one sticking out at least.

I'm glad you got a good one. I know it's common for someone to give a fail and then get jumped on 'but i got a good one' but I don't think this should be one of these cases. These boxes are not quality except in rare exceptions and really they shouldn't be recommended.

Not trying to start an argument on that front. I do agree 100% the fact they are friction slides isn't their main issue.

 

[Jasonfi]

I worked for a company that bought a lot of those to use as part of in-wall storage in our workshop, and some in-vehicle storage due to the light weight. I think you got a rare good one. Most of these boxes aren't square, don't sit flat, and one corner of the drawers always sticking out even when locked. Happens on top, mid & bottom, you will always have one sticking out at least.

I'm glad you got a good one. I know it's common for someone to give a fail and then get jumped on 'but i got a good one' but I don't think this should be one of these cases. These boxes are not quality except in rare exceptions and really they shouldn't be recommended.

Not trying to start an argument on that front. I do agree 100% the fact they are friction slides isn't their main issue.

No arguments here. It was just my experience. I bought two for myself and one for my father and they been great. Maybe I am just too easy to please

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[spoonsports86]

Has anyone used the 6 Drawer Top Chest U.S. General - item#67423 tool chest?

I can't find any info on it here. The one review on HF's site says it does not have ball bearing slides. That may not be good.

HF black box is the worst i rather leave my tools in my tool bags like they have been for a while

 

[Alchymist]

Has anyone used the 6 Drawer Top Chest U.S. General - item#67423 tool chest?

I can't find any info on it here. The one review on HF's site says it does not have ball bearing slides. That may not be good.

HF black box is the worst i rather leave my tools in my tool bags like they have been for a while

I believe that 67423 is the same top chest as the one in the combo:
http://www.harborfreight.com/11-drawer-roller-cabinet-67421.html

I bought two of these combo sets on sale @150 each, and sold the bottom roll arounds for $40 each. So out of pocket was $110 for top chest & intermediate 2 drawer.

That said, one top box with intermediate chest holds nothing but drill bits, the other holds various hack saw, jig saw, recip saw blades and hole saws, with a drawer devoted to locks and keys. The other intermediate chest holds all my crimpers and crimp terminals.

Obviously not the same quality as the red HF boxes, I would say they are about equal to the similar Craftsman boxes at a better price. While not ball bearing slides, they work well enough for storage purposes. Overall quite happy for the money. (And yes, I have higher quality toolboxes - Craftsman, Kennedy, etc).

 

[Sleipnir]

I have two of those boxes and I personally don't have any issues with them. I know they are cheap, but just like anything if you take care of it, it will last. I just don't see spending a lot of money for a box to hold tools. I would rather spend that money to buy more tools

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Ah cool, I don't have any and can only say from what I saw in the store. I doubt they grease up the slides or anything so of course it'll be worse than what you got going on.

 

[cburnscrx]

I believe that 67423 is the same top chest as the one in the combo:
http://www.harborfreight.com/11-drawer-roller-cabinet-67421.html

I bought two of these combo sets on sale @150 each, and sold the bottom roll arounds for $40 each. So out of pocket was $110 for top chest & intermediate 2 drawer.

That said, one top box with intermediate chest holds nothing but drill bits, the other holds various hack saw, jig saw, recip saw blades and hole saws, with a drawer devoted to locks and keys. The other intermediate chest holds all my crimpers and crimp terminals.

Obviously not the same quality as the red HF boxes, I would say they are about equal to the similar Craftsman boxes at a better price. While not ball bearing slides, they work well enough for storage purposes. Overall quite happy for the money. (And yes, I have higher quality toolboxes - Craftsman, Kennedy, etc).

I PM'd the original poster more info.

For the same money as the original poster referenced ($109), they could get a Husky top box. Those ARE the same as the Craftsman boxes (both made by Waterloo) with 50lb ball bearing slides. I have both the Husky and the HF 44".