Wheel dollies - Harbor Freight

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I am looking at getting some wheel dollies and engine stand, anyone have experience with the HF models?

Specifically item #67338 and #69521?

If no, any suggestions?

 

[Strouty]

I do not have any history with the engine stand, my Dad had the wheel dollies. They worked for a car, but it it was a fight to get things moving, especially if you were changing directions. My car weighs 3800 pounds and I weigh 285 and it was all I could do to get those suckers going. They were perfect for a garden tractor.

If you would like a decent set of dollies get the Merrick Auto Dolly. They are made in the USA and they are really not expensive if you hit a deal, they almost always have a coupon code available. Even with those, I would still get the heavy duty wheels, the swivels are much better and that is what you need to change direction. If you are only pushing sideways, then pushing the reverse direction, it might not matter as much, but I had to turn mine sideways and that was where it got hard.

 

[Strouty]

Another thing, the HF dollies have steel heels that mark up floors pretty badly. I think I remember a few people cutting a crown in the wheels on a lathe, it made them have less rolling resistance.

 

[619DioFan]

I bought a set of the black ones about ten years ago when I had to put my 69 chevelle inside a mini storage unit. worked ok going straight ahead but pushing the car sideways to the wall took a fair amount of force ( I am 6'4'' 270 ) I would look for some gojacks ( especially if you plan to move the car around a lot while on the wheel dollies ) might find a set used at a decent price. never used their engine stands so can't comment on them. but do have several of their floor jacks and think they are a great value.

 

[lat905]

I've had 2 of their engine stands. 1st one had the single wheel in front, second has 2 wheels in front. Avoid the single wheel one, its dangerously unsteady.

This is the one I currently have: http://www.harborfreight.com/automotive-motorcycle/lifts-stands/1000-lb-engine-stand-69886.html

Its fine for a small block, but anything heavier I would worry. The rod used to rotate the engine is way too short, not enough leverage. I used an old jack handle instead.

The one you are looking at is definitely sturdier than the one I have, and I think it would be fine if its the same quality as the one I have.


FYI
They sell a similar one at jegs: http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS+Performance+Products/555/80042/10002/-1 For only a couple dollars more with free shipping that looks like a better product.

 

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Does anyone have any suggestions on other dollies?

 

[619DioFan]

Gojack brand of wheel dollies are very nice. used them often in a shop setting. rather pricey new but might find some used. HF sells a style of wheel dolly similar to the gojack but have no idea of the quality.

 

[bobbycos]

I've had 2 of their engine stands. 1st one had the single wheel in front, second has 2 wheels in front. Avoid the single wheel one, its dangerously unsteady.

This is the one I currently have: http://www.harborfreight.com/automotive-motorcycle/lifts-stands/1000-lb-engine-stand-69886.html

Its fine for a small block, but anything heavier I would worry. The rod used to rotate the engine is way too short, not enough leverage. I used an old jack handle instead.

The one you are looking at is definitely sturdier than the one I have, and I think it would be fine if its the same quality as the one I have.


FYI
They sell a similar one at jegs: http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS+Performance+Products/555/80042/10002/-1 For only a couple dollars more with free shipping that looks like a better product.

the JEGS one is basically a HF stand rebranded

I got the 4 wheel engine stand and i have not had a problem with it so far

 

[928'er]

Anyone who thinks a HF 1,000# engine stand can support 1,000# has a serious death wish. They're probably safe at about half that weight though...

I've had a caster break off when trying to move an aluminum Rover 3.5 ltr (Buick 215) - fairly light engine.

 

[Next]

Hot Rod magazine had a good review on the 2k lb engine stands, but the review is 3 years old.


Those Gojacks are nice but they are expensive.

Ebay has these - http://www.ebay.com/itm/2pc-1500lb-...0823387216&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr



Look similar.

 

[Rickss96]

Definitely get the 4-wheel type of engine stand. Have rebuilt engines with a 3-wheel type and was always nervous about tipping over, especially when the heads and intake are mounted.

I've used the HF #67287 version of the wheel dolly but only on lighter weight vehicles and they worked fine. These have a lower weight rating than other commercial versions and I would not trust 'em under a full size pickup. In fact I would not use anything from HF up near its rating limit.

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

my Dad had the wheel dollies. They worked for a car, but it it was a fight to get things moving, especially if you were changing directions. My car weighs 3800 pounds and I weigh 285 and it was all I could do to get those suckers going. They were perfect for a garden tractor.

That's been my experience with the wheel dollies too. I've been disappointed they don't roll easier. I have my '59 Impala on them.

 

[evintho]

Here's a suggestion, check your local CL under 'tools'. There's always somebody selling engine stands. Many times you can find a quality used 4-wheel stand for the price of the cheap HF 3-wheel stand.

 

[kythri]

The listed wheel dollies in the first post (HF #67338) are under a 340 Duster in my shop right now, and performing quite well.

They don't seem to be too tough to move the car around, and they've got enough resistance on them that the car doesn't fly across the room.

I've got zero complaints about them, and would DEFINITELY recommend them.

 

[lat905]

the JEGS one is basically a HF stand rebranded

I got the 4 wheel engine stand and i have not had a problem with it so far

If you look closely, its not the same. Castors are different and the Jegs has 6 wheels where the HF one has 5.

 

[zach540]

I have the 1ton Harbor Freight Engine Stand, there is no problem with the strength of it, I have a 5.9L Cummins sitting on mine no problem.
Of note however, when I bought mine, the head upright supports are too short, or the hole is drilled too high, however you want to look at it. The ones in the store were the same way. I simply drilled a new hole for the supports lower, then put a bolt through the previous hole to prevent any weakening.
Naturally, it does interfere big time with the legs on an engine hoist, so just beware.

Zach