The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread...

[aka Larry]

PASS: Apache 300 (Pelican-style) Waterproof Case #56766

Bought this to hold my Sig P229, hearing protection, and magazines. The pluck-style foam is easy to work with, but admittedly, the look isn't quite as clean as the high-end closed cell foam. The difference being the price as the entire case was only $39.99, so I can live with the look, since the function is pretty much the same.

To make it more user friendly long-term, I used the Plasti-Dip trick to basically make this foam act like the high-end stuff. For a cooler look, I used a contrasting background color to match the case.

 

[ndnchf]

UPDATE: on the light bar
https://www.harborfreight.com/845-lumen-underhood-rechargeable-work-light-63990.html

Piece of junk. The battery lasts 5 minutes and the AC cable that I had to use to keep it constantly charged broke.

Sorry to hear that. You must have got a bad one. Tale it back and get another. Ive had one for 2 years and its been great. Very bright and last quite awhile.

 

[zendriver]

PASS: Apache 300 (Pelican-style) Waterproof Case #56766

Bought this to hold my Sig P229, hearing protection, and magazines. The pluck-style foam is easy to work with, but admittedly, the look isn't quite as clean as the high-end closed cell foam. The difference being the price as the entire case was only $39.99, so I can live with the look, since the function is pretty much the same.

To make it more user friendly long-term, I used the Plasti-Dip trick to basically make this foam act like the high-end stuff. For a cooler look, I used a contrasting background color to match the case.

Can the foam be custom cut with a razor knife?

 

[619DioFan]

30 inch pedestal shop fan - PASS. have had it now for about 3 weeks , has 3 settings and moves a lot of air. base is weighted so it stays put. the base has 4 pre drilled holes to accept stem style casters ( not included ) next trip to HF going to pick up some locking casters for it.

 

[javyLSU]

I just moved to the icons and wayyyy better. My old crusty jeep they are crucial

There are no Icon impact star or hex bit sockets to my knowledge.

 

[ER70S-2]

UPDATE: on the light bar
https://www.harborfreight.com/845-lumen-underhood-rechargeable-work-light-63990.html

Piece of junk. The battery lasts 5 minutes and the AC cable that I had to use to keep it constantly charged broke.

Mine definitely lasts longer than 5 minutes. You can put a better 18650 if you want it to last longer.

 

[aka Larry]

Can the foam be custom cut with a razor knife?

Maybe after the Plasti-Dip has been applied, but as it comes, the pull-n-pluck squares are too soft and too close together to do that.

 

[ndnchf]

PASS: Apache 300 (Pelican-style) Waterproof Case #56766

Bought this to hold my Sig P229, hearing protection, and magazines. The pluck-style foam is easy to work with, but admittedly, the look isn't quite as clean as the high-end closed cell foam. The difference being the price as the entire case was only $39.99, so I can live with the look, since the function is pretty much the same.

To make it more user friendly long-term, I used the Plasti-Dip trick to basically make this foam act like the high-end stuff. For a cooler look, I used a contrasting background color to match the case.

Can you explain the "plasti-dip trick" ?

 

[aka Larry]

Can you explain the "plasti-dip trick" ?

Do you mean the "how" or the "why"?

The how is to spray Plasti-Dip over the foam after the foam has been removed for the items. The more coats the better. I did about 5 heavy coats.

The why is to join all the little foam squares together as one so the adjacent squares don't attempt to pull out when removing the items. In essence adding the Plasti-Dip keeps the surrounding foam from being too soft.

There are several videos on YouTube about exactly how if you need further information, but it's pretty straight forward.

For reference, here are before and after pics of mine:

 

[ndnchf]

Thanks for both explanations. It makes sense now.

 

[fartymarty]

Can you explain the "plasti-dip trick" ?

Do you mean the "how" or the "why"?

The how is to spray Plasti-Dip over the foam after the foam has been removed for the items. The more coats the better. I did about 5 heavy coats.

The why is to join all the little foam squares together as one so the adjacent squares don't attempt to pull out when removing the items. In essence adding the Plasti-Dip keeps the surrounding foam from being too soft.

There are several videos on YouTube about exactly how if you need further information, but it's pretty straight forward.

Thanks for both explanations. It makes sense now.

Thank you both, for both, the question and the answer. I wouldn't have received the second without the first. I'd never heard of that but it does make sense. I have a large case for a telescope that is problematic in use and spraying the two layers I have with Plasti-Dip is worth exploring but I never would have thought of that on my own. Thanks guys!

 

[aka Larry]

Thank you both, for both, the question and the answer. I wouldn't have received the second without the first. I'd never heard of that but it does make sense. I have a large case for a telescope that is problematic in use and spraying the two layers I have with Plasti-Dip is worth exploring but I never would have thought of that on my own. Thanks guys!

Just to be clear, I'm not the one who thought of doing it. I'm not sure who did, but I don't want to take credit for something that wasn't my idea.

Regarding the multiple layers, for those who don't know, this case has multiple layers of foam (three in this particular one) so you can accomodate both deep and shallow items. It can be problematic (even after the Plasti-Dip) when removing them items with the different layers trying to separate from each other. In my case, I used spray glue on each side of the the bottom two layers, so in affect after it's all done, it's like one big piece of foam.

 

[spyerx]

A/C Manifold Gauges

I've a hot rodded porsche 911 964. I kept the AC in it as well, it gets warm in the canyons (well over 100 like this weekend). Anyway, the AC was working but compressor was cycling and drifting warm. Suspected low 134a (it was converted) and was getting soaked. All other components of the massively over complicated engineered example of early 90's german technology are actually functioning as designed.

Picked up the HF manifold gauges for what like $45 after coupon and a couple cans of 134a, had to get a can tap at O'Reilly's for $6. Oh and thank you california for tacking on a $10 per can recycling fee on a $6 can of 134a. UGH.

They worked fine. System was about 2/3 full. Filled it pressure spec, at some point I'll pickup the vacuum pump and draw a vacuum on it and do a proper refill. Took about 290g, system holds 900g.

But, I found the leak, one of the schraeder valves was not tight, low side was seeping when i pulled the cap off. Tightened that up all is good in the world and AC works.

The gauges themselves seem OK, and given I'll likely only use them a couple times a year, at most, they were fine and saved the outrageous rates people charge when they see a porsche pull into their garage...

Also a pass:
I have had one of the random orbital buffers for quite some time. Chicago Electric they now brand it Bauer. Changed the pad size to 5" and it works fine. If loud.

I did do 2 mods to it:
opened it up and installed a 25f very flexible extension cord
Packed the gearbox with proper high temp/quality grease. as well noted the grease installed *****.

BTW, the internal build quality is less chintzy than you'd think, really. My friend is a detailer and he gives these to his turn and burn staff (he uses rupes on the higher end details) and they last a year in a commercial environment. that's using 6+ hours a day for a year...

The latter makes a huge difference in the noise, smoothness. Its surprisingly comfortable to use with the right grease and 5" pads, very little vibration.

The damn thing is loud still, some point I'll get a Rupes and just be done w/ it. But for $40??? can't complain.

 

[Wanna Ride]

Just one spare mag?

 

[tncumminsguy]

I will say the 56" toolbox is a massive pass, the latches get annoying to use every time but what a great piece for the money

 

[aka Larry]

Just one spare mag?

There is another one under the one shown. Also the extra mags for this gun ain't cheap at $50 each.

 

[ndnchf]

I will say the 56" toolbox is a massive pass, the latches get annoying to use every time but what a great piece for the money

I agree, I just got the 56" box and love it. I don't mind the drawer latches at all. I'm used to them on the 5 drawer service cart.

 

[WinMod21]

• Chicago Electric reciprocating saw [ Pass ]

Approx 8 yrs ago, I wasn't in the mood to pay approx $130. to replace my 15+ yr old Dewalt DW304 saw--as it had lasted a good long time, from back when Dewalt power tools came in the black Dewalt metal boxes--and since I no longer needed one for professional const use, I decided to try-out the Chicago Electric @ HF for $17.99 w/ coupon. And amazingly, it's still running!

While it doesn't have the horsepower the pro saws have, it's still been able to zip thru nails and rebar!! Plus the reciprocating head rotates 360° ! So there's that.

But don't get me wrong; I'm no HF fan; so I'm not recommending that anyone else buys' one.

 

[darkzero]

I may have posted already in this thread a while back, I forget since another forum I'm on has a similar thread. But I just used another one.

Mobile Base is a Pass. But I use steel square tubing for the frame instead of wood like HF suggests. This time for my belt sander. Other one was for my arbor press. 2 more left. Unfortunately the price has gone up $5 & % coupons don't work on them anymore cause it's Central Machinery brand. Store manager might apply the discount though since it's not actually machinery. I got all of mine during 25% sale days.

(Grinder stand is not HF)

 

[ER70S-2]

I may have posted already in this thread a while back, I forget since another forum I'm on has a similar thread. But I just used another one.

Mobile Base is a Pass. But I use steel square tubing for the frame instead of wood like HF suggests. This time for my belt sander. Other one was for my arbor press. 2 more left. Unfortunately the price has gone up $5 & % coupons don't work on them anymore cause it's Central Machinery brand. Store manager might apply the discount though since it's not actually machinery. I got all of mine during 25% sale days.

(Grinder stand is not HF)

Does screwing the feet down tilt the grinder back or does it end up vertical?

 

[darkzero]

Does screwing the feet down tilt the grinder back or does it end up vertical?

I have it set to slightly tilt back. Can adjust the front casters to how you want it sitting without the feet screwed down. Not a whole lot of adjustment but it's enough.

 

[jonesg]

I agree, I just got the 56" box and love it. I don't mind the drawer latches at all. I'm used to them on the 5 drawer service cart.

That looks very practical.
I'd love one of those.

 

[jonesg]

Pittsburgh 3 Jaw Puller Set #63953 - PASS

Needed to remove a keyed pulley that was stuck to a mower engine crankshaft. (There was actually rust that had crept in there and fused them.) My old method involved prying, sweating, swearing and a lot of time. Time to buy the right tool for the job.

This kit came with 3 pullers: small, medium, large. The jaws have holes in different places to change the angle of engagement.

I don't know what was holding me back so long from "splurging" on such a useful product!

I stripped the 2 larger ones, still have the small version and it works as long as you don't get crazy with an impact wrench on the center bolt.
But sometimes thats the only way, they lasted the job and were done.

 

[Ton ton]

8.5 inch long adjustable wrench from HF. Pittsburgh Pro brand. Definitely a pass. Widemouth.

 

[Iowafox]

The Icon 1/2 and 3/8 impact universal joints are a good tool to have. Good quality, Smooth action and hold up fairly well. The finish isn't bad at all either. I say there a pass. you will be glad to have them in your tool arsenal!

https://www.harborfreight.com/38-in...t-universal-joint-adapter-set-2-pc-56697.html

 

[vertguy]

Another vote for the mobile base. I saw them in this thread earlier this year and grabbed 3 while they were still $29. I started with the blast cabinet followed by my block grinders and today I wrapped it up with the drill press. I used square tubing as well.








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[darkzero]

Very nice VG! The one for your grinders reminds me of my arbor press, similar in size.

 

[vertguy]

Your arbor press is what inspired me to go this route. What are you using for the base plate? Even with 3/4 plywood, mine are a little bouncy. I already welded in an angle iron brace on both of the long sides of the grinder setup, which definitely helped. And noticed the same thing with the DP, so I need to do something similar.


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[darkzero]

Nice!

I used 1/8" aluminum sheet metal. For the arbor press it's pretty stable cause the base of the arbor press stand is supported by the 4 corners of the mobile base, the triangular sections.



My belt sander was a different story. I used 1/8" aluminum plate again for both the top & bottom. On the bottom, the 2 front legs of the grinder stand sat on the triangles. But the rear leg sat in the center & unsupported by the rear corners so it flexed a bit there. Didn't think it would be an issue & didn't know until I mounted the belt sander.

So I made a simple support bracket out of 1/8" steel plate & riveted it to the rear frame bar. That fixed it. I suppose steel plate instead of aluminum would have been better but that would have cost me more.










And the reason I used a aluminum plate on top is cause the bench grinder stand mounting plate was a bit too small for my belt sander. Had to make some notches.

 

[Wanna Ride]

There is another one under the one shown. Also the extra mags for this gun ain't cheap at $50 each.

Hear you loud and clear. When I first bought my Sig P320, I think those were nearly fifty bucks each. But whenever I buy a new pistol, I always order more mags, so I have five for each one. When I go to the range, I can shoot for a few minutes, before I have to reload.

 

[Wanna Ride]

Another vote for the mobile base. I saw them in this thread earlier this year and grabbed 3 while they were still $29. I started with the blast cabinet followed by my block grinders and today I wrapped it up with the drill press. I used square tubing as well.

Same thing in my shop... casters on everything possible; small sheet metal break, bandsaw, drill press, grinder stand, air compressor, welding table, blast cabinet, etc

 

[klitzke]

I will say the 56" toolbox is a massive pass, the latches get annoying to use every time but what a great piece for the money

Ditto, it so much better built than the other brands for home gamers. I upgraded to this from a masterforce and I absolutely love it.

The big coasters are top notch for anyone doing a lot of moving around, on a smooth shop floor she rolls silent and deadly like a heart attack.

Bonus points if you attach a nice vise to the top!

 

[Jake8131]

Got these two from HF and are great little grinders. PASS.

 

[winlinmac]

How's the Harbor Freight Drywall Panel Hoist / Lift? Are the welds acceptable?

 

[JRC3]

How's the Harbor Freight Drywall Panel Hoist / Lift? Are the welds acceptable?

Yeah, drywall doesn't weigh as much as a car. LOL

If I knew your location I'd know if a Menards is local and would recommend one from there. I have Menards and HF directly across the street from each other and compared lifts and found them identical...Except at the time $20 less at Menards and 4x longer warranty. They both were even the same red color, now yellow at Menards.

By the way that was $20 less even with HF 20% coupon. Never assume they are cheaper, that's what they want you to think. Today the lift at Menards is $170 without rebate and HF is $210 before the 20%. With discounts/rebate it would be $151 vs $168.

 

[Fatboy148]

3/8" X 14' chain. Item 60658. You be the judge.....

The website has changed since last night when I looked and this morning when I was in my local store looked at it.


https://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-x-14-ft-truckers-chain-97711.html

The label on the package says 3/8" X 14' they are really 13' 3" or NOW according to their website, 13.2' while the link still says "3-8-eighth-inch-x-14-ft-truckers-chain".


The only reason I found this was.... I was tired of digging through the pile of chains in my shop to get what I wanted so.... I was looking at the thread about "What Do You Have On Your Shop Walls" and yesterday I made a rack from a 4' piece of 2"x10" and put 1/2" anchor bolts at 4" OC to hang my chains on. First I hung some 20' chains and hooked them back on themselves to clear the floor, then I hung one of the 14' Harbor Freight chains on the new rack and the chain just touched the floor. I went and got another new in package off the shelf and hung it up and it was shy of the floor. WHAT???? How can this be?

I went and got another NIP and laid it out on the floor and it was the same length. I weighed the first two and then got a third off the shelf and it weighed the same as the first. These have been in my shop for at least a year if not longer.

I went to the store today to check about getting different chains. The manager said trade them BUT measure the new ones before you leave the store. The new ones they had in the store were the same SQU that I had and measured out at 13' 3" while the package says 14'.

How long have they been "short chaining" their customers?

I am sure some lawyer will see this, get involved by running to the store to buy a chain and make a ton of money! Hopefully HF will pull them all off the shelves and not sell them any longer.

 

[WinMod21]

I've got an 8 ton Pittsburgh bottle jack from HF that's 10 years old and still going strong. So I guess that's a 'PASS'.

 

[Shootinok]

Picked up some red shop rags while the coupon is still good for $8.99. This time the brand says “Grants Garage”

Definite PASS.
These are much better quality than the last bunch I got, you could practically see through the old ones.



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[decableguy2000]

I've been using a couple of these 5/16" x20' chains for a couple years for pulling logs with a tractor. Would by them again.

https://www.harborfreight.com/516-in-x-20-ft-grade-70-truckers-chain-60667.html

 

[David99]

Picked up some red shop rags while the coupon is still good for $8.99. This time the brand says “Grants Garage”

Definite PASS.
These are much better quality than the last bunch I got, you could practically see through the old ones.
The Garage Journal mobile app

What was the item number on the one's you picked up?