Trading down................

[X1 Mike]

Haven't posted in forever but here is where I'm at............

It looks like the "Harbor Freight is improving quality" subject has gotten quite a bit of coverage lately but how many are thinking about selling truck tools to get HF?

I have a 24" Matco ratchet that I love but honestly never use. It is the 60 tooth version of this.

https://www.matcotools.com/catalog/product/CFR248LFM/1-2-24IN-88TH-LF-RATCHET-ORG/

While HF doesn't have an equivalent they do have an 18" long one.

https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-...onal-flex-head-long-handle-ratchet-62332.html

I really can't remember the last time I've used the Matco and it's entire life I could probably count the times I've turned nuts with it using my hands and have leftover fingers. I may just go buy the HF model and if I like it sell my Matco. Anyone else doing this sort of blasphemy?

Besides, the Matco doesn't fit in my ratchet drawer.

 

[Musicinabottle]

No, not me. If you don't use it, then you probably aren't going to use the harbor freight either I bet.

 

[ineedtools]

Never sell a trusted brand for an HF!
I have some SO, SK, MAC, and Matco tools that I rarely use but when I do I'm happy to have them and couldn't imagine selling them to pocket a few extra dollars.

Best part is that all four trucks pass weekly and never had a problem with warranty on the spot plus a couple drivers let you post on their cork board if you're looking to sell or buy.

Sent from my R1 HD using Tapatalk

 

[kctyphoon]

The only purpose of this thread is to start an argument

 

[Wamsutta]

If that's the non-locking Matco ratchet, I would definitely keep it. You say you don't have a use for it? You must have an impact wrench somewhere. Us poor folks use long 1/2 inch ratchets like that for our lug nuts and other large suspension nuts.

 

[X1 Mike]

The only purpose of this thread is to start an argument

Yep, I haven't posted in about 3 years but I thought I'd start an argument. SMDH

 

[MrGiggles]

The HF ratchet head will flap in the breeze once you lean on it a few times.

It's a tough ratchet, but the floppy head issue prevents me from recommending it.

 

[X1 Mike]

Looks like I have to prove it's a legit question lest I be trolled.

Gee, I wonder why I stopped posting?

As you can see from the pictures I hastily threw together I have some Matco, some C-Man and some HF.

Funny thing is I have often been called a Matco Fanboy because I wont use my Matco ratchets in the driveway and I always keep them pretty. If you notice, I am **** enough about my tools that orange handle = fixed head and Green = flex head.

I have been buying a lot of HF lately to take to the racetrack because I wont care as much if they walk away while I'm racing.

 

[ocloc24]

Yeah of all tools that is not one I'd trade down on. I have the same ratchet it's one of the only matco ones I really like. I don't use it much, maybe once a month, but when I need it, I need it. You can get CRAZY on that thing before it breaks. I used mine on forklift lugs, big ones. You might only use it every few months, but do you really wanna risk laying into the HF and having it snap at the worst possible time? Not worth it imo, not to mention you'll only get a third or less than what you paid.

It's funny because matco doesn't seem to be very popular around here, I'm not a big fan myself, but anytime someone asks what are Matcos "must have" tools, the 24" ratchet is usually the first thing people bring up.

 

[gdpolk]

If the tool you have isn't working for you and isn't being used, it's worthless regardless of the brand name or monetary investment in it. It's just a hunk of metal taking up space and tying up funds.

If Harbor Freight has a tool that you think you WOULD use more then maybe it's worth more to you as a tool.

For what it's worth, I wouldn't keep the old ratchet just because I don't like that coarse of a tooth count. Also for what it's worth the Pittsburgh Pro ratchets are quite nice to use; the build quality isn't like a truck brand but it certainly isn't terrible either.

 

[MrGiggles]

If the tool you have isn't working for you and isn't being used, it's worthless regardless of the brand name or monetary investment in it. It's just a hunk of metal taking up space and tying up funds.

If Harbor Freight has a tool that you think you WOULD use more then maybe it's worth more to you as a tool.

For what it's worth, I wouldn't keep the old ratchet just because I don't like that coarse of a tooth count. Also for what it's worth the Pittsburgh Pro ratchets are quite nice to use; the build quality isn't like a truck brand but it certainly isn't terrible either.

Since when is 60 tooth coarse?

The HF is only 72...

 

[Wamsutta]

If the tool you have isn't working for you and isn't being used, it's worthless regardless of the brand name or monetary investment in it. It's just a hunk of metal taking up space and tying up funds.

I feel the same way about my new Stihl weedeater. I poured a bunch of money into it and most of the time it just sits. The thing is so expensive, it stays inside the house on soft carpet.

 

[Musicinabottle]

I feel the same way about my new Stihl weedeater. I poured a bunch of money into it and most of the time it just sits. The thing is so expensive, it stays inside the house on soft carpet.

Get a lockable velvet lined wood display case for it, with some dimmable led accent lighting inside. Now that would be awesome!

 

[Musicinabottle]

........... Sorry.

 

[Fedwrench]

There are other lower cost 24 inch long 1/2 drive fixed and flex head ratchets available if you're worried about losing a truck brand ratchet at the race track. EZ Red, Gearwrench, & Titan are a few brands offering long 1/2 drive ratchets.

However, it's your ratchet so, you can do whatever you want with it.

Me, i would hang on to it since it's paid for.


Is it just me or have you asked about replacing/getting other tools recently and not wanting to lose them at the race track? If yes, maybe you need to work out tool control & storage at the track first.

 

[Wamsutta]

The plastic handles on those Matco ratchets look like they'd be real comfy.

 

[ocloc24]

Oh also, the locking flex, it normally doesn't matter to me if it locks or not, but on a 24" long ratchet that I'm laying into locking is the way to go

 

[X1 Mike]

There are other lower cost 24 inch long 1/2 drive fixed and flex head ratchets available if you're worried about losing a truck brand ratchet at the race track. EZ Red, Gearwrench, & Titan are a few brands offering long 1/2 drive ratchets.

However, it's your ratchet so, you can do whatever you want with it.

I'm not looking for a 24" ratchet to take to the race track. I am racing Hare scrambles with my dirt bike and if there isn't much use for it at home there damn sure isn't any use for it at the track. I take other cheaper tools to the track. I'm less worried about theft than I am leaving it in the grass.

I am well aware I can do what I want with it, I was just wondering if anyone else is dealing with the same thoughts I have been having.

Is it just me or have you asked about replacing/getting other tools recently and not wanting to lose them at the race track? If yes, maybe you need to work out tool control & storage at the track first.

Considering this thread is my first post in about 3 years and I have just started racing again after a 20 year absence I think you have me mistaken.

 

[X1 Mike]

For what it's worth, I wouldn't keep the old ratchet just because I don't like that coarse of a tooth count. Also for what it's worth the Pittsburgh Pro ratchets are quite nice to use; the build quality isn't like a truck brand but it certainly isn't terrible either.

One day (If I keep it) I will most likely swap an 88 tooth rebuild kit in it.

 

[lostmymanual]

Yeah, I'm doing the same thing in some areas. I have a nice Miller autoset welder but realized I could have bought a lot less expensive machine and gotten the same results for the type of projects I do. I'm thinking of selling it and buying something less expensive, yet larger that will support spray arc.

I just pre-ordered the AHP Alphatig 200x over buying a companion Miller Dynasty welder for the TIG. A few years ago I would have just plunked the cash down on the Miller machine but now I have a better idea of reality.

I also buy the HF tools knowing that if I use them to the point that they're shot; that I'll buy commercial grade next time. Until then; if they work, they work.

I decided to get a Grizzly track saw instead of the Festool equivalent and have used the tar out of it. I'm on my second Freud blade and 3rd or 4th rubber track chip guards. I've broke down literally over 100 sheets between finishing my shop and throwing together load ramps and I'd gladly buy it again.

Same for my engine lathe. Could have bought a Southbend or older Monarch, Atlas, etc but decided that Grizzly was just fine for the type of project dabblery that I have in mind and I'm not looking to restore an antique before I can start working. Runout is outstanding on this machine; I can gladly say.

My Craftsman and Proto hand tools have seen as much use as any of the Snap-On stuff I had that was stolen and they don't absolutely kill me to think of getting stolen (again). I originally planned on replacing my Snap-On stuff and said screwed it and bought a mechanics set out of need. I later decided they were just fine and have kept buying 2nd or 3rd tier brand hand tools as needed.

I like HF's jacks, lifts, pneumatic tools and such. I don't mess with their saws or blades. I found their pocket-hole jig better quality then the Kreg equivalent but most of their woodworking stuff is not great including their clamps that are complete garbage.

 

[davethorik]

I personally have two 2ft 1/2 ratchets. Do I use them every day? No. However, I wouldn't give them up. I've been using them instead of my vtg Bonney 3/4 ratchet, with 3/4 sockets and a drive adapter.

The 1/2 are both a few (5" and 8") inches longer than my old 3/4, and just as strong if not stronger...although at this point I'd guess the 1/2 drive becomes the weak link.

I really wanted to get a Matco like yours, as I have Armstrong locking flex in 1/4 and 3/8 that I like. However, I got a couple good deals on 2 other brands...one a non locking flex, another fixed. Jmo

 

[PJNJ]

Get the HF and see if you like it. They're cheap enough that's not a loss if you don't like it. I have SK and Wright in 1/2 and wouldn't ever get rid of them even though I rarely use them. So I would probably keep the Matco without a second thought even if I bought the HF.

But do what you feel best as it's your tools and money.

 

[BDT/NWMN]

Haven't posted in forever but here is where I'm at............

It looks like the "Harbor Freight is improving quality" subject has gotten quite a bit of coverage lately but how many are thinking about selling truck tools to get HF?

I have a 24" Matco ratchet that I love but honestly never use. It is the 60 tooth version of this.

https://www.matcotools.com/catalog/product/CFR248LFM/1-2-24IN-88TH-LF-RATCHET-ORG/

While HF doesn't have an equivalent they do have an 18" long one.

https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-...onal-flex-head-long-handle-ratchet-62332.html

I really can't remember the last time I've used the Matco and it's entire life I could probably count the times I've turned nuts with it using my hands and have leftover fingers. I may just go buy the HF model and if I like it sell my Matco. Anyone else doing this sort of blasphemy?

No

Besides, the Matco doesn't fit in my ratchet drawer.

Keep it in a different drawer. You know it would be needed the day after being sold

 

[Tallpilot]

Never sell a trusted brand for an HF!
I have some SO, SK, MAC, and Matco tools that I rarely use but when I do I'm happy to have them and couldn't imagine selling them to pocket a few extra dollars.

Best part is that all four trucks pass weekly and never had a problem with warranty on the spot plus a couple drivers let you post on their cork board if you're looking to sell or buy.

Sent from my R1 HD using Tapatalk

How would your opinion change if you hadn’t seen on or more of those trucks for many years?

 

[johnnyradiant]

The only purpose of this thread is to start an argument

That's not true

 

[Tallpilot]

I also buy the HF tools knowing that if I use them to the point that they're shot; that I'll buy commercial grade next time. Until then; if they work, they work.

That’s it. When just dabbling in a trade it makes a great deal of sense to try cheaper offerings especially when they are a third the price of even entry level commercial (a good adjective since professional is so abused by the marketing wanks) kit. With a little study of reviews and this site it can easily be determined what is complete junk.

If it wears out and you liked working with it enough to want to replace it then splurge. Some would argue more money is spent in this manner and argue ‘buy once, cry once’ but that logic doesn’t hold if you buy 10-12 toys and only end up replacing 2-3 of them with something higher end.

The same logic applies to an apprentice in a trade. What we see too much of here is immediate distaste for something because of where it was manufactured or where it is sold. Utility value should be considered for most purchases (vanity purchases being the exception but only if you can truly afford it).

 

[ineedtools]

How would your opinion change if you hadn’t seen on or more of those trucks for many years?

Good question, I guess I'd probably have a drawer with some be broken truck tools!

However I've only bought a handful of new off the trucks, 95% have been off here, CL or flea bay for little more than what CM sells for at non sale prices.

I have a few HF tools like the larger 3/4 metric impacts 24-35, a couple breaker bars, and some tourqes for backup that I've abused and been happy with. These couldn't be justified truck price wise and even used was hard to swallow.

Sent from my R1 HD using Tapatalk

 

[thooks]

I say keep it and not worry. I bet one day you'll be glad you kept it. It doesn't need to live in the ratchet drawer.

There's something to be said for the statement that if you don't use it much, you won't an 18". Looks like you have "enough" ratchets. I use one or two ratchets, I have about 12. I generally use the HF 3/8" or 1/2" Snap-on copy with the red/black rubber end handle.

 

[zendriver]

Personally I would, since I wouldn't be able to sleep nights having an expensive unused tool like that doing nothing in the toolbox. That's $200 I could invest in something else.

That's the greatest thing about HF products.

If you don't use tools etc. all day, every day, then you don't have such a huge monetary investment in them.

I can take the difference and investment in something that actually gets a rate of return.


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[ocloc24]

Personally I would, since I wouldn't be able to sleep nights having an expensive unused tool like that doing nothing in the toolbox. That's $200 I could invest in something else.

That's the greatest thing about HF products.

If you don't use tools etc. all day, every day, then you don't have such a huge monetary investment in them.

I can take the difference and investment in something that actually gets a rate of return.


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Except he'd be lucky to get $80 for it.

 

[zendriver]

Except he'd be lucky to get $80 for it.

Yikes, then I really wouldn't be able to sleep at night!

Mind boggling what people pay for heat treated metal when new.


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[X1 Mike]

Except he'd be lucky to get $80 for it.

Then the discussion would be a non starter. Generally every time I have sold a truck tool I have put them on eBay and started the auction at 50% of new plus shipping. This would start at $130.


The comment about it not fitting in the drawer was said tongue in cheek. I keep it in the top of my cart.

I'm most likely going to go get the HF ratchet and still keep the Matco. I do love knowing I have a bad assed ratchet if I need it.

 

[dsimatt]

Then the discussion would be a non starter. Generally every time I have sold a truck tool I have put them on eBay and started the auction at 50% of new plus shipping. This would start at $130.


The comment about it not fitting in the drawer was said tongue in cheek. I keep it in the top of my cart.

I'm most likely going to go get the HF ratchet and still keep the Matco. I do love knowing I have a bad assed ratchet if I need it.

You sell it for $130 and then the HF is $30 so you get $100 in the end, I'd do like you say and keep the old and get the new one to.

I nave a $300+ ratchet that mostly sits but when I need it I'm glad to have it for sure.

 

[ocloc24]

Then the discussion would be a non starter. Generally every time I have sold a truck tool I have put them on eBay and started the auction at 50% of new plus shipping. This would start at $130.


The comment about it not fitting in the drawer was said tongue in cheek. I keep it in the top of my cart.

I'm most likely going to go get the HF ratchet and still keep the Matco. I do love knowing I have a bad assed ratchet if I need it.

I dont usually sell on eBay so Idk going price on there. Around $100 is what I usually see them listed for locally but matco isn't very big around here

 

[cherrybomb]

Keep your Matco,there is no way in the world I'd trade down to HF.The beating you will take on Ebay will be disapointing.Buy a HF if your really want something a bit different.Eventually you will need the Matco when the HF lets you down.

 

[uncwstudent]

Honestly, if you aren't using it very much then why not trade down for the HF? I have a HF flex head that works pretty well (definitely not my favorite, but certainly not bad by any stretch).

My whole philosophy is that if the tool is worth a lot and you almost never use it, sell it, make some cash, and use part of the profit to buy a similar tool for much less (and use the rest of the cash for more tools!).

Sometimes to me, having the very best tool when it gets almost no use is...kind of useless. Even with the HF, if you break it, you just take it back. Matco you have to take back to your dealer and wait.

 

[ovrrdrive]

I'm a pretty big buyer of hf stuff. Some works great, some just ok and some is garbage. My list would be a lot different than yours. I have one of their $14 grinders that I have been trying to kill for about 12 years. It's quite a remarkable tool that I don't regret buying one bit. I have had others break out of the package. That said, when i think of the leverage I could put on a 24' ratchet I don't think I would bother with a hf version of it. I can think of nothing worse than keeping a tool like that as a backup last resort and when the need finally arises where you need it breaking it out only to break it into a million pieces.

Once a tool is paid off it's mine. Especially a hand tool. Only reason I'd sell one was to put food in my son's mouth. I can definitely see buying a hf version to use and keeping the matco as a backup, but probably not the other way around. But that's just mho.

 

[Pasha]

No, not me. If you don't use it, then you probably aren't going to use the harbor freight either I bet.

Yeah, but at least you will have a lot more money in your pocket. HF makes more sense for more DIY'ers.

 

[jimmyin3D]

keep the matco and get the 88 tooth kit! or you can always trade down to the 18" locking version, people seem to have more use for this length!

good luck on your decision! but i would skip the HF and get the locking 18" matco or even gearwrench version!

 

[Parrothead]

Then the discussion would be a non starter. Generally every time I have sold a truck tool I have put them on eBay and started the auction at 50% of new plus shipping. This would start at $130.


The comment about it not fitting in the drawer was said tongue in cheek. I keep it in the top of my cart.

I'm most likely going to go get the HF ratchet and still keep the Matco. I do love knowing I have a bad assed ratchet if I need it.

And this most likely makes no sense. You have a ratchet you barely use now, and you want to get another one to use instead? Please explain to me how this makes ANY sense?