The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread...

[mbshop]

Yup, those strap sets are the ones I just failed. And if you store them the straps will break in a year or so anyway. Will look for a good used serp belt as suggested. That jack looks ridiculously dangerous.
no matter what, always put something underneath to catch it if there is a failure.

 

[FarFire70]

Harbor Freight 300 lb. riding mower lift. Huge fail!!! 2nd time I used it. Glad I wasn't under the mower when it dropped.

Never understood these type of lifts unless they lock in place.

Same caution for only using a jack on our car with jack stand(s) should apply to these. If the lift arm doesn't lock after lifting to desired height, don't buy. Otherwise, it's a widowmaker.

 

[jonesg]

WHen the turbo failed in my volvo I couldn't get in there with a regular ratchet wrench, found this long reach slim version at HF and it worked a charm.
3/8th on one end, 1/4inch on the other, very handy tool to have.

https://www.harborfreight.com/14-in-38-in-Drive-Long-Reach-Dual-Flex-Head-Ratchet-67994.html

No wonder Sears has gotten out of the tools business, the HF tools are really improving.

 

[jonesg]

Yup, those strap sets are the ones I just failed. And if you store them the straps will break in a year or so anyway. Will look for a good used serp belt as suggested. That jack looks ridiculously dangerous.
no matter what, always put something underneath to catch it if there is a failure.

Threw those strap wrench's away 5 yrs ago, surprised they still sell them.
They ain't straps, they're rubber bungee's.
You can replace the strap with used serpentine belt, then the handle snaps off.

 

[jonesg]

Some of those I have replaced with a timing belt or serpentine belt. I'm not sure if you can do that with the one you have.



The metal split to the right of the black jack.

Just a quick glance at that failure point, who designed that ?.
Looks like the weld failed but the plate bent first , stressing the weld.

I'd weld in and thru bolt some bed frame gussets, if you return yours the replacement has the same time bomb... ticking, waiting to fail. Scary.

 

[jonesg]

Anyone care to comment on any of their hand trucks?

Tried to move a commercial refrigerator, the blade bent.
But the wheels are round.!
Ok for light duty.

 

[Weird Tolkienish Figure]

What did you try to remove with a rubber strap wrench anyway? just curious.

It was a piece to my pool, the top valve on the canister filter.

Pipe wrench got it off which I should have used in the first place.

AAMOF, there isn't much my pipe wrench won't get off.

 

[MushCreek]

I'm sure it's been reviewed, but I just brought home a 4X8 trailer, 1195 lb. It went together fine, and seems fine for what it is. I needed a light trailer for around town hauling of bulky stuff- dump runs, lumber, and other stuff that doesn't weigh too much. I got it to fill in the gap until I get my old truck on the road. I might make it into a teardrop camper after I no longer need it. At $259, it was pretty cheap.

 

[IA Monsterbuck]

Never understood these type of lifts unless they lock in place.

Same caution for only using a jack on our car with jack stand(s) should apply to these. If the lift arm doesn't lock after lifting to desired height, don't buy. Otherwise, it's a widowmaker.

My understanding is that they do have a locking pin to lock it in place. I'd like the reviewer to respond with more details as I am considering purchasing one. I want to make sure it is safe with the locking pin in place.

 

[Tp2177]

So far the trifold aluminum ramp has been holding up just fine for me with loading my lawn mower/golf cart into my storage building and out when we need to use them.


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[dlc]

My understanding is that they do have a locking pin to lock it in place. I'd like the reviewer to respond with more details as I am considering purchasing one. I want to make sure it is safe with the locking pin in place.

It does lock in place. See the three round holes above the jack that the locking pin slides into. Unfortunately this doesn't make me feel any better about it so I am returning it. Supposedly according to a HF employee, they are coming out with a new and improved version soon.

 

[diggerrick]

I'm sure it's been reviewed, but I just brought home a 4X8 trailer, 1195 lb. It went together fine, and seems fine for what it is. I needed a light trailer for around town hauling of bulky stuff- dump runs, lumber, and other stuff that doesn't weigh too much. I got it to fill in the gap until I get my old truck on the road. I might make it into a teardrop camper after I no longer need it. At $259, it was pretty cheap.

That trailer has been reviewed several times as a PASS. I'm sure you'll be very happy with it. I had the same one for several years and loved it. I sold it to my ex-wife last year because I wanted to upgrade to the bigger 1,720 lb capacity trailer. My biggest complaint with these trailers is the stake pockets are a fuzz too small for 2x4's.

 

[Loose Ctrl]

My biggest complaint with these trailers is the stake pockets are a fuzz too small for 2x4's.

I own a chisel and sand paper.

 

[diggerrick]

Me, too!

Kind of a minor complaint - that's my point actually. They are pretty decent trailers for the money.

 

[Brownsfan]

WHen the turbo failed in my volvo I couldn't get in there with a regular ratchet wrench, found this long reach slim version at HF and it worked a charm.
3/8th on one end, 1/4inch on the other, very handy tool to have.

https://www.harborfreight.com/14-in-38-in-Drive-Long-Reach-Dual-Flex-Head-Ratchet-67994.html

No wonder Sears has gotten out of the tools business, the HF tools are really improving.

One of the definite gems at HF. I have one. It's really handy.

 

[zwmdc]

Rotary hammer - PASS

Breaker bar - PASS

Drywall hoist - PASS so far...easy set up and have handled several sheets so far

C-clamps - PASS

Ratchet bar clamps of assorted lengths - FAIL the rubber ends came off every single one immediately and over half of them broke before the first 5 uses

Paint brushes (lowest quality) - PASS as disposable brushes FAIL for any type of high quality finish

Brake caliper compressor - PASS

 

[Goobzilla]

So far the trifold aluminum ramp has been holding up just fine for me with loading my lawn mower/golf cart into my storage building and out when we need to use them.


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I use mine for the exact same purpose, it works well.

 

[nbpt100]

Rotary hammer - PASS

Breaker bar - PASS

Drywall hoist - PASS so far...easy set up and have handled several sheets so far

C-clamps - PASS

Ratchet bar clamps of assorted lengths - FAIL the rubber ends came off every single one immediately and over half of them broke before the first 5 uses

Paint brushes (lowest quality) - PASS as disposable brushes FAIL for any type of high quality finish

Brake caliper compressor - PASS

I agree on the ratchet bar clamps.....I broke several of them in short order. Don't buy! I have been using the Irwin brand and has been worth the money.

 

[JuliusPepperwood]

Torque Wrench - FAIL.... BIG FAT FAIL...... I CANT STRESS THIS ENOUGH.

Universal joint - ALSO A FAT FAIL.

 

[woodturner9]

Torque Wrench - FAIL

What don't you like about the torque wrenches? I have the set, use them often, would rate them a definite PASS. Just wondering why you don't like them?

 

[Loose Ctrl]

What don't you like about the torque wrenches? I have the set, use them often, would rate them a definite PASS. Just wondering why you don't like them?

I agree. I own several and have found them to be reliable and accurate. I have a tool shop that calibrates torque wrenches. Mine have been checked and never needed it.


JuliusPepperwood, would you post the item number?

 

[JRC3]

Are those click type torque wrenches? I'm pretty sure they aren't slipper type.

 

[DFB]

I got one 1/2" torque wrench last year seems to work fine torqued almost 100 bolts/nut combo's with it to over 80ft lbs

And just bought another this past week for my tool tent table

I have had a 1/4" drive inch lb wrench for years its not from HF but its near identical tool that's been ok too.

I hear some have problems getting them to click release

 

[Loose Ctrl]

Are those click type torque wrenches? I'm pretty sure they aren't slipper type.

I got one 1/2" torque wrench last year seems to work fine torqued almost 100 bolts/nut combo's with it to over 80ft lbs

And just bought another this past week for my tool tent table

I have had a 1/4" drive inch lb wrench for years its not from HF but its near identical tool that's been ok too.

I hear some have problems getting them to click release

Mine are the click type Pittsburg torque ratchets from around 2001-02 era. I've never had any problems hearing mine unless there was a lot of noise around, and even then, I can feel the click.

 

[DFB]

So I got a shopping spree on my boss's dime for summer sales and along with a bunch of other things picked up the 68011 37pc impact socket set with locking case and the 67995 64 pc metric/sae combo chromed sockets and ratchet set also with case.

https://www.harborfreight.com/37-pc-38-in-12-in-drive-sae-metric-impact-socket-set-68011.html

With 25% coupon the impact set was only $22.50 and took a free DMM with the purchase

https://www.harborfreight.com/64-pc-14-in-38-in-12-in-drive-sae-metric-socket-set-67995.html

I like the impact set has good markings, case is solid enough and much better than case on the 3/4 drive set I sold last year. (I was actually afraid to carry that around and was quite concerned the case would crack or the latches to break off before it sold just by people handling it)

And the sockets all seem to be a good fit on my cordless tools (not like some extension bars I bought last year which were very loose) And the only negative I can make is there is no 16mm or 18mm socket in either sizing.

I might just keep it or buy another!

The chrome set does have more complete range sizing all the way from 4mm 1/4" drive thru 7/8" 1/2 and does have both the16mm and 18mm shallow in 3/8 drive. Also has three sizes of 8 point sockets for square drain plugs like usually found on small equipment engines

Chrome finish is actually quite good looking, the stamped markings are large and easy to read and lot better than most craftsman sockets. RHR are pretty coarse tooth but the handles are long enough for a decent grip and are very similar looking to the ones that come in the PRO set. Case is also similar to the impact set with the swivel latches.

On sale with coupon for $29.99

Good enough for most stuff

Also got one each of the Pittsburgh pro 20 pc socket sets that has both shallow and deep one metric and one SAE Price was right at $14.99 with coupon

https://www.harborfreight.com/20-piece-3-8-eighth-inch-drive-sae-socket-set-41723.html

https://www.harborfreight.com/20-Pc-38-in-Drive-Metric-Socket-Set-67999.html


The pro ratchets are slightly larger at handle diameter are stamped PRO and have a slightly larger curved directional dial. Without go so far as taking them apart I can't say if the innards have other differences. Metric set has a 16mm both in shallow and deep but again no 18mm sockets.

Lots of other stuff some of the 24" breaker bars, t handle hex key sets, saw blades, the 12inch tool bags, plastic ammo boxes, and several different sizes in ratchet straps.

Also picked up the underhood light for $29.99.

https://www.harborfreight.com/120-led-rechargeable-under-hood-work-light-60793.html

Overall I like the execution of it and build quality is actually decent but the light value is minimal at best and concentrated in a narrow band just as many reviews point out. I did test it some in the dark. It came with a charge and I haven't had to recharge it yet.

With a higher and slightly wider light output is could be very deserving of a 5 star rating especially at the price point but at best its only maybe a 3 in my book. This will be for sale under my tool tent

Personally I intend to get the Milwaukee underhood light when it is released
And just as side note a current M12 Rover light can seriously light up an engine bay when needed

 

[engineer2]

Serpentine belt tool 66344 and 63077: FAIL.
The weld for the 3/8 drive nub tends to break.

 

[emeraldcoupe]

any of you guys use the shrinker / stretcher?

https://www.harborfreight.com/metal-shrinkerstretcher-set-68897.html

 

[Loose Ctrl]

any of you guys use the shrinker / stretcher?

https://www.harborfreight.com/metal-shrinkerstretcher-set-68897.html

This is hearsay. Not first-hand experience, but I think it may be worth mentioning.

I've heard it go both ways. The naysayers usually have the HF stand. The ones that build their own stand seem to love them. I think it's due to the HF stand being a little light and the users not securing them to something while using the shrinker stretcher. It has a tendency to move around when not on a secure stand. You probably already know this tho.

 

[emeraldcoupe]

This is hearsay. Not first-hand experience, but I think it may be worth mentioning.

I've heard it go both ways. The naysayers usually have the HF stand. The ones that build their own stand seem to love them. I think it's due to the HF stand being a little light and the users not securing them to something while using the shrinker stretcher. It has a tendency to move around when not on a secure stand. You probably already know this tho.

thanks. I did some looking on youtube, seems to jive with what your saying. this is something i'm not going to use a lot but would be nice to have.

 

[Loose Ctrl]

thanks. I did some looking on youtube, seems to jive with what your saying. this is something i'm not going to use a lot but would be nice to have.

I understand that. I have one car I want to do a resto-mod on and I want to build a Model T, or A cowl, with windshield frame for a project. I could use one but it's almost not worth it. I can cut, bend, weld cheaper.

 

[bubinga]

My first Harbor Freight Purchase:

$249 - Some Assembly Required.

A 4' x 8' utility trailer that I cut down to 4' x 6'. 12" tires, 3/4 PT Flooring ($29), side boards, front step / platform ($18).

I went this route for a lawn cart instead of the typical bushing bearing - no spring - $500-700 large yard cart.

It pulls nicely with either the electric EZ-Go or tractor and has been a big help in planting, limb trimming, etc. It is more than I care to pull with the lawn mower, but I have a smaller cart for that. With actual taper roller bearings and comparably decent tires, I tow it to the garden center for supplies rather than fire up the truck. (Very small town - and I can stay on back streets.)

old thread, but looks good.
Did those brackets on the side for the stakes come with it.
Thought I read, you had to buy those separate ?

 

[Billy Jack]

any of you guys use the shrinker / stretcher?

https://www.harborfreight.com/metal-shrinkerstretcher-set-68897.html

No experience with it, but Eastwood has theirs for $159, on sale today for $135. I've used the Eastwood for building wings for our Sprint Car and it's a good piece of equipment. Chance of getting replacement jaws thru Eastwood are probably a lot better than HF, so that's the way I'd go.

Bill

 

[Loose Ctrl]

Pass-18 volt Ni-Cad charger item #68420 It seems to charge my Drill Master batteries. HF reviews are bad for it.

Fail- 18 volt 1/4 inch impact driver 62874 and same as 61424. Mine came without the battery. I use the batteries from my cordless drill. If you think the drill kills batteries fast, this impact driver will astound and amaze. First battery will full charge drove in four 3 inch screws. The second battery with full charge drove in sixteen 3 inch screws that were predrilled.

 

[Tp2177]

Been using the torque wrenches for the past couple of days. Only used the 3/8 and the 1/2 so far but they have worked great. Actually found two lug nuts that weren't as tight as they should be on my wife's car with the dealership being the last one that's tightened them. Money well spent so far.


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[cajunrebel`]

HF 33 Pc Security Bit Set -- Warrior ----- Fail
Bits wear out even from the get-go. Buy a better set if possible.

I worked in the tool crib at an Air Force fighter jet unit for a while before I separated. I found a couple of the high tork bits (the ones in the front row of the pic) while checking in tool boxes. Tool accountability was a huge deal in aviation. But, some guys had bought some of these and would replace a lost bit with one if they wanted to not get in trouble for losing one. We usually found em cause they came back crumbled the first time someone used it.

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[revrnd]

Bought a 62454 benchtop sand blasting cabinet about a year ago.

Right off the bat I replaced the 'bottom' screen w/ perforated sheet metal so that I could blast smaller sectioned pcs (visible in 2nd pic).

Still w/o an interior light (like most industrial cabinets that I'd used over the years had), using it was a PITA. I spotted a short fluorescent fix't & measured the cabinet. A 24" fix't will fit.

I had to get a friend w/ a plasma cutter trim some of the 'vent' baffle away to allow installation. The cut edge is covered w/ the duct tape in the 1st pic.

 

[Muggzy]

Super Duty Air Impact Hammer with Chisels #47868: FAIL for automotive use.

http://www.harborfreight.com/super-duty-air-hammer-with-chisels-47868.html

Super Duty Air Impact Hammer with Chisels #47868:
FAIL! I only use it occasionally and oil it every time, used it Maybe 4-5 times since I bought it two years ago. Took it out to use it today and it simply doesn't work. Air flows right through it. Loaded or not.

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[HomeTheaterMan]

Has anyone used one of these Poly Rivet Guns?
https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-riveter-with-40-industrial-strength-poly-rivets-97757.html

I need one to install a mud flap and wondered if it was a pass or a fail?

 

[555]

Pass - The 300 lb ATV/Lawn Mower Lift https://www.harborfreight.com/autom...s-stands/300-lb-atvlawn-mower-lift-61523.html

 

[Ozwelder]

We don't have HF in Oz but I guess I have had a relative of this tool.

The ****** seals don't stand up to the oil and theres no standard spares available.

You can bet the non standard shape of the seal is designed that way so it can't be repaired.