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TECHNICAL MOTOBRICK WRENCHING In Remembrance of Inge K. => The Motobrick Workshop => Topic started by: DRxBMW on February 14, 2012, 09:49:25 PM

Title: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: DRxBMW on February 14, 2012, 09:49:25 PM: Rate your satisfaction/dissatisfaction with specific tools or items purchased and used from Harbor Freight. Note the link to the item, if you got it on sale, a photo if you can, and your DIRECT experience with that item.

Anyone who is interested in buying inexpensive tools and items from HF can use this thread to see if what they are interested in has a chance of being worth the price!

PLEASE this thread is NOT about whether you should buy things from China,India,Mexico,wherever on the planet.. It IS about helping bricKhead's decide the good values Vs bad at Harbor Freight. Please do not waste our time with rants about HF and Chinese ch*t.

I'll kickstart the thread:

microfiber cleaning/polish cloths, PASS, 4 for the price of one compared to Auto Zone. ($3.99 on sale)

http://www.harborfreight.com/microfiber-cleaning-cloths-pack-of-4-68440.html (http://www.harborfreight.com/microfiber-cleaning-cloths-pack-of-4-68440.html)

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_15692.jpg)

Medium strength thread sealant (aka loctite), FAIL, nut vibrated off, buy the good stuff. ($2.99)

http://www.harborfreight.com/threadlocker-no-42-10-ml-medium-strength-65192.html (http://www.harborfreight.com/threadlocker-no-42-10-ml-medium-strength-65192.html)

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_16763.jpg)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: motodude on February 15, 2012, 01:39:17 AM: I recently purchased an auto-darkening welding helmet. $49.99 and I wonder how I ever got along w/o one. The headgear is even of reasonable quality.

Half the price they usually run at Napa or AirGas.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: WayneDW on February 15, 2012, 09:41:18 AM: Their brake bleeder works fine and it's on sale everyonce in a while:
(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_11800.jpg)

Their cheap, cheap fake dremel tool has no power whatsoever and was a waste of $10:
(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_12000.jpg)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: frankenduck on February 15, 2012, 11:59:31 AM: I bought a small combo metric/SAE socket set at HF once. The socket labeled 10mm (the one most used on K bikes) was actually a 9mm socket. :laugh
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: wmax351 on February 15, 2012, 01:35:08 PM: I've got their Bike lift. Works fine. Cheap too.

I had a grinder from them last 10+ years, including stripping 4 motorcycles, and countless other jobs. I tossed it when it started making horrible noises after I got a cheap Makita while working at Home depot.

Most of the stuff is actually pretty decent, as long as you are willing to do your own quality control.

I have one of their 1200 watt generators. Works nicely. Just check for metal shavings in the gas tank/carb before starting up.

I have also had one of their compressors. little 5 gallon? pancake type one, oil type compressor. Worked for a long time, till I eventually toasted the motor (while sandblasting with it none-the-less) and manage to buy a 23 gallon one from Home depot on clearance sale.

http://www.toolcrib.com/blog/2008/08/buyer-beware-a-harbor-freight-buying-guide-the-good-enough-the-bad-and-the-abysmal (http://www.toolcrib.com/blog/2008/08/buyer-beware-a-harbor-freight-buying-guide-the-good-enough-the-bad-and-the-abysmal)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: johnny on February 15, 2012, 01:50:49 PM: quick stitch sewing awl...

first time i used it the needle snapped in half on the very 1st stitch...

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_15039.jpg)

j o
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: johnny on February 15, 2012, 02:09:30 PM: wood burner... got it to do some low tech plastic welding...

tip broke off the first time i tried to use it...

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_18673.jpg)

j o
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: johnny on February 15, 2012, 02:13:26 PM: lightweight soldering iron...

would not get hot enough and never once got hot enough to melt solder...

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_16705.jpg)

j o
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: johnny on February 15, 2012, 02:17:49 PM: truck crane...

the bottle blew its seals 5 times in 2 years before i tossed it...

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_11911.jpg)

j o
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: wmax351 on February 15, 2012, 02:22:07 PM: Quote from: johnny on February 15, 2012, 02:13:26 PM
lightweight soldering iron...

would not get hot enough and never once got hot enough to melt solder...

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_16705.jpg)

j o

I just bought several 98 cent soldering irons from a 98 cent store. Convenient to have several, but not counting on them lasting. That's why I also have a nice soldering station. Still chinese, but good quality

http://www.sciplus.com/singleItem.cfm/terms/16663 (http://www.sciplus.com/singleItem.cfm/terms/16663)

American Science and Surplus can have some gems. http://www.sciplus.com/ (http://www.sciplus.com/)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: motodude on February 15, 2012, 04:00:25 PM: Johnny, you should stop purchasing tools from Harbor Freight. :nono
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: johnny on February 15, 2012, 05:34:00 PM: i have only made 5 purchases at harbour fraght in my lifetime... hope to keep it that way...

j o
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Chaos on February 15, 2012, 06:26:35 PM: Love these little buggers, usually 2 for $3. The aaa batteries included cost that much. Put them in the desk, car, bike toolbox, give them to the kids. One at work goes through hell and does fine.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Chaos on February 15, 2012, 06:36:40 PM: When my dremel went belly up I picked up the HF one for $15 on sale, does fine. The $12 heat gun is handy for heating steering head bearings and thawing pipes. Both are fine for occasional use.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: DRxBMW on February 15, 2012, 07:39:46 PM: Quote from: WayneDW on February 15, 2012, 09:41:18 AM
Their brake bleeder works fine and it's on sale every once in a while:

Rick bought the same brake bleeder for his 1150 GS. Lasted about one month before total meltdown.

FAIL ________________.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: DRxBMW on February 15, 2012, 07:40:51 PM: Quote from: Chaos on February 15, 2012, 06:26:35 PM
Love these little buggers, usually 2 for $3. The aaa batteries included cost that much. Put them in the desk, car, bike toolbox, give them to the kids. One at work goes through hell and does fine.

Ya, I have the same flashlights stashed in various locations.

PASS ____________________.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: HCorn on February 15, 2012, 09:03:42 PM: There's no shortage of garbage at HF, but there's a few gems. I'll list the PASSES:

I can't speak highly enough about the 5 drawer Tool Cart. Good luck finding something as good for 3x the price ($160):
(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/small_image/160x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_11938.jpg)

The 42" Tool Chest is also great ($360), although I think the cart is superior:
(http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRdn-IKKQtDhM7oWybr8a1WVbYyuMYjpqpylwex61tw-he2gOxN8w)

The composite ratchets are surprisingly smooth and strong at under $10 and it won't freeze you widdle fingers when it's cold out:
(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/small_image/160x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_16272.jpg)

Although not as durable as Hansen trays, the socket trays are a bargain at $10/set:
(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/small_image/160x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_13932.jpg)

With a handful of purchases, in particular those above, I have been downright amazed at the quality/value. That being said, there are some things I'm really hesitant to buy: Anything you plug in (unless you're trying to build a fire); and anything your life might depend on (i.e. jack stands).

There's a great Harbor Freight Pass/Fail thread over at Garage Journal: http://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=27192 (http://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=27192)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: mystic red on February 15, 2012, 09:55:42 PM: Screwdrivers, air tool attachments, air hose reels, hoses, pliers, voltage meters....all a plus.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: motodude on February 15, 2012, 10:26:21 PM: Quote from: HCorn on February 15, 2012, 09:03:42 PM
There's no shortage of garbage at HF, but there's a few gems. I'll list the PASSES:

I can't speak highly enough about the 5 drawer Tool Cart. Good luck finding something as good for 3x the price ($160):

The 42" Tool Chest is also great ($360), although I think the cart is superior:

...

With a handful of purchases, in particular those above, I have been downright amazed at the quality/value. That being said, there are some things I'm really hesitant to buy: Anything you plug in (unless you're trying to build a fire); and anything your life might depend on (i.e. jack stands).

...

Thanks HCorn, I'm in the market for a roll-around cart/table. I'll give that one a look-see.

I have purchased jack-stands and a cherry-picker from HF. So far they've worked flawlessly. I'm in the process of putting an sbc/700r4/D300 into a Wagoneer. The cherry-picker lifts all three as a unit w/o any issues. And, the engine has all the appliances on it (alt, psp, acp, maniforlds, tbi). It also lifted the AMC 360/TH400/D20 as a unit, out w/o any issues.

I agree about electrical (plug-in) appliances/tools though. A lot of their stuff, you can just look at and see that it is not well built.

Tom
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: johnny on February 17, 2012, 12:26:06 PM: snapped opening up my ram hole...

(http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff192/owrstrich/DROID/IMAG0314.jpg)

j o
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: DRxBMW on February 17, 2012, 03:55:35 PM: Quote from: johnny on February 17, 2012, 12:26:06 PM
snapped opening up my ram hole...
j o

Quite obvious a Warlock has spelled a "Voodoo curse" on Harbor Freight tools and JO for breakage.

(http://www.artmuffin.com/grfx/grfxgames/jpg/GameScreenshot-Voodoo.jpg)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: motodude on February 17, 2012, 04:07:52 PM: Quote from: johnny on February 17, 2012, 12:26:06 PM
snapped opening up my ram hole...

j o

I'm just glad I don't have a, "ram hole". :embarass:
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Chaos on February 17, 2012, 06:20:23 PM: Quote from: johnny on February 17, 2012, 12:26:06 PM
snapped opening up my ram hole...

(http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff192/owrstrich/DROID/IMAG0314.jpg)

j o

ummm, you really gotta use the tool for the intended purpose to judge it fairly. That said, my 1/2" Craftsman ratchet made a lousy hammer, but they replaced it for free!
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Lawrence on February 17, 2012, 06:53:35 PM: I bought a chain breaker/master link installer. The skinny bit that is used to press out the old master link bent. I straightened it and then it snapped when I tried to use it again.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: wmax351 on February 17, 2012, 10:11:04 PM: HF has the same break it and return it policy with all its hand tools. and in general, they hold up very well, especially without moving parts.

i bought one of their clicker torque wrenches. its really solid, comes in a nice case, and is quite accurate. iirc, its the 15 inch one. was on sale.

With my racing team at uc berkeley, we either get really goood stuff donated or buy the cheapest crap we can find.

the HF bench grinder is quite good, and has put up with quite a bit of abuse.

the blasting cabinets can easily be made nice.

my portable, bottom/hose fed sand blaster gun works well.

i have heard that the mini metal lathes are excellent, once you adjust the preloads correctly. you can add a milling attatchment, and have a good machining setup for 500 dollars. (20 % off one item codes are always around)

wire brushes suck, but do their job. they're a buck a pop, and arent supposed to go over 4000 rpm, but work great on grinders. they shed metal hairs, but not a big deal outside with a face mask (also from hf) or a paintball mask, like i use.

i have a couple sets of their metric tap/die kit. the taps and dies are nice, but the die holder and large T handle for the taps suck and are made of sintered crap metal. theyre so cheap, i can overlook that, and buy a decent tap holder.

the 1/2 inch impact sockets are quite good, as are the U joints and extension
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: frankenduck on February 17, 2012, 10:30:19 PM: Back in the summer of 2004 I bought a HF trailer for $200 shipped to rescue my K75RT with stripped splines from MN. (If I knew then what I know now I would've fixed it there and ridden it home.)

I used it to pick up my LT in Spokane the next year. I've also used it to transport a bunch of other bikes for various purposes and some other hauling tasks. After reading horror stories about failed wheel bearings over on ADV I pulled the wheels off last summer. Bearings looked OK so I repacked them with Mobil 1 bearing grease and put it back together.

I've definitely gotten my $200 worth out of it.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Chaos on February 17, 2012, 10:59:00 PM: Never knew how much I need these till I popped the $3. Use em for grease, paint, whatever & pitch them. Big plus.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: DRxBMW on February 17, 2012, 11:01:21 PM: Quote from: Lawrence on February 17, 2012, 06:53:35 PM
I bought a chain breaker/master link installer. The skinny bit that is used to press out the old master link bent. I straightened it and then it snapped when I tried to use it again.

Good to read the above tidbit.

Pondered buying the HF chain breaker but it did look cheep.

Nothing worse than being out in the boonies with a compromised chain and a broken piece of ch!t tool.

(http://images2.cafepress.com/image/49676602_125x125.png[img]

[img]http://images8.cafepress.com/image/49676698_125x125.png)

(http://i1.cpcache.com/product/273819641/just_say_no_to_cheap_freight.jpg?color=White&height=240&width=240)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: ned37 on February 18, 2012, 11:25:17 AM: Quote
Quote from: Lawrence on February 17, 2012, 01:53:35 PM

I bought a chain breaker/master link installer. The skinny bit that is used to press out the old master link bent. I straightened it and then it snapped when I tried to use it again.

Good to read the above tidbit.
Pondered buying the HF chain breaker but it did look cheep.
Nothing worse than being out in the boonies with a compromised chain and a broken piece of ch!t tool.

i've had a similar chain breaker for years. the driver pin on mine also bent so i replaced it with a ground down drill bit. been going strong for a long time.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: CRASH on February 18, 2012, 12:49:04 PM: (http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j346/Gulgamesh/Dscn1580_small.jpg)
:2thumbup: :2thumbup: :2thumbup:

(http://cn1.kaboodle.com/hi/img/2/0/0/81/1/AAAAArArdAsAAAAAAIESiA.jpg?v=1193609177000)
Fail ... taken two sets back after only a few hours. Electronics burn out.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: HCorn on February 22, 2012, 07:37:58 AM: Quote from: motodude on February 15, 2012, 10:26:21 PM

Thanks HCorn, I'm in the market for a roll-around cart/table. I'll give that one a look-see.

I have purchased jack-stands and a cherry-picker from HF. So far they've worked flawlessly. I'm in the process of putting an sbc/700r4/D300 into a Wagoneer.

Along with the one at home, we use two at work. By far one of the best tool related purchases I have made.

Speaking of Wagoneers . . . I had a Grand Wagoneer a few years ago. I'm pretty firmly in the landcruiser camp now, but the Wagoneer certainly had more charm. I wouldn't mind picking up an older Cherokee one day. Getting hard to find nice FSJs anywhere they salt the roads nowadays (except New England, where they seem to love FSJs and Subarus!)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: motodude on February 22, 2012, 11:29:59 AM: Quote from: HCorn on February 22, 2012, 07:37:58 AM
Quote from: motodude on February 15, 2012, 10:26:21 PM

Thanks HCorn, I'm in the market for a roll-around cart/table. I'll give that one a look-see.

I have purchased jack-stands and a cherry-picker from HF. So far they've worked flawlessly. I'm in the process of putting an sbc/700r4/D300 into a Wagoneer.

Along with the one at home, we use two at work. By far one of the best tool related purchases I have made.

Speaking of Wagoneers . . . I had a Grand Wagoneer a few years ago. I'm pretty firmly in the landcruiser camp now, but the Wagoneer certainly had more charm. I wouldn't mind picking up an older Cherokee one day. Getting hard to find nice FSJs anywhere they salt the roads nowadays (except New England, where they seem to love FSJs and Subarus!)

Not sure if you're referring to the jackstands or the cherry-picker (guessing the cherry-picker).

Yeah, I'm going through a Jeep phase right now. I recently put together a budget Cherokee (XJ). I'm into the whole thing for about $3k, 4.5" all spring lift, 31's. The thing was a mess when I got it. Replaced a bunch of body panels, etc, etc. Sourced almost everything on CL. Decent driver now.

IMO the FSJ Wagoneer is just about the perfect size SUV. Big enough to carry 6 and all their gear but smaller than a Suburban. This one is old enough I won't have to go through DEQ (the Cherokee is the first vehicle I've ever owned that had to do through DEQ, what a pain in the a$$).
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: HCorn on February 22, 2012, 07:47:59 PM: Quote from: motodude on February 22, 2012, 11:29:59 AM
Not sure if you're referring to the jackstands or the cherry-picker (guessing the cherry-picker).

Actually I was still referring to the 5 drawer chest. I don't have any experience with the jackstands or cherry picker. I've heard good (at least satisfactory) things about the hoist. I'm not inclined to go under a vehicle supported by HF jackstands though. :eek2: :biggrin:
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: motodude on February 22, 2012, 08:19:20 PM: Quote from: HCorn on February 22, 2012, 07:47:59 PM
Quote from: motodude on February 22, 2012, 11:29:59 AM
Not sure if you're referring to the jackstands or the cherry-picker (guessing the cherry-picker).

Actually I was still referring to the 5 drawer chest. I don't have any experience with the jackstands or cherry picker. I've heard good (at least satisfactory) things about the hoist. I'm not inclined to go under a vehicle supported by HF jackstands though. :eek2: :biggrin:

Yea, I realized as soon as I hit "send" that you're probably referring to the rollaway chest. :confused:

The jack-stands are actually quite stout and reasonably well made. I bought ones that were vastly overrated for what I needed and I have no qualms about climbing under the Wagoneer.

CRASH's picture of the RS on the lift gives me the willies though. I can just see that bike falling on me. I have zero experience w/ moto-lifts and while I can see the benefit of not having to get on the floor, I can also see the disaster of an improperly supported bike falling off a table 3 feet in the air. And, it has nothing to do with the lift coming from HF. And, I'm sure my fear is not rational. :loco:
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: CRASH on February 22, 2012, 11:39:57 PM: Actually it is a GT, not an RS ... way fatter than an RS.

Your fear is quite rational but these tables are amazingly stable if you are not a idiot. I see guys lift bikes with no straps ... may as well just start looking for a new bike in my opinion. But I have lifted some pretty heavy bikes on it (this one is about 700 pounds as she sits) and it is like a rock.

I saw HF trailers mentioned too ... I have one I got as payment for doing a service on an RTP - I have modded it a lot to fit my needs so I did not post it, but the trailer itself is solid as well. Had two big bikes on it with no issues.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Rick G on February 23, 2012, 12:19:24 AM: I'm not inclined to go under a vehicle supported by HF jackstands though. :eek2: :biggrin:
And, I'm sure my fear is not rational. :loco:
[/quote]
Not at all I have a friend here who has been out of action for 2 years because the bike fell on him. He didn't have it strapped down but the idiot that sold it to him said it was not neccessary. Mind I would strap it down even if the rest of the world said no need.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: motodude on February 23, 2012, 10:14:25 AM: Quote from: CRASH on February 22, 2012, 11:39:57 PM
Actually it is a GT, not an RS ... way fatter than an RS.

Your fear is quite rational but these tables are amazingly stable if you are not a idiot. I see guys lift bikes with no straps ... may as well just start looking for a new bike in my opinion. But I have lifted some pretty heavy bikes on it (this one is about 700 pounds as she sits) and it is like a rock.

I saw HF trailers mentioned too ... I have one I got as payment for doing a service on an RTP - I have modded it a lot to fit my needs so I did not post it, but the trailer itself is solid as well. Had two big bikes on it with no issues.

My mistake. I thought it looked different, but GT isn't in my vocabulary.

Like I said, my fear has nothing to do with the lift coming from HF, bikes fall over on the ground everyday, one falling off a table next to where I'm standing is scary. Folks also use moto-lifts everyday w/o any issues, but I suspect that there is a method for using them that works better than others.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: motodude on February 23, 2012, 10:19:56 AM: Quote from: Rick G on February 23, 2012, 12:19:24 AM
I'm not inclined to go under a vehicle supported by HF jackstands though. :eek2: :biggrin:
And, I'm sure my fear is not rational. :loco:
Not at all I have a friend here who has been out of action for 2 years because the bike fell on him. He didn't have it strapped down but the idiot that sold it to him said it was not neccessary. Mind I would strap it down even if the rest of the world said no need.
[/quote]

The Wagoneer has a 4" lift so, unless I need to pull an axle, jack-stands are not really necessary.

As I indicated in the previous post, I'm sure there is a method for using a moto-lift that has more pleasant consequences than others.

Tom
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Chaos on September 27, 2012, 07:44:50 PM: Got one of these 'cause I had a 'for free' coupon, and it's great! Zaps moths, spiders, even stuns hornets long enuf to step on em. Don't use it as a swatter, just wave it around and let them fly into it. Had a swarm of fruit flies in the kitchen and it got em all. Well worth the $3 just for the entertainment.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: mystic red on October 06, 2012, 12:14:56 PM: Quote
CRASH's picture of the RS on the lift gives me the willies though. I can just see that bike falling on me. I have zero experience w/ moto-lifts and while I can see the benefit of not having to get on the floor, I can also see the disaster of an improperly supported bike falling off a table 3 feet in the air. And, it has nothing to do with the lift coming from HF. And, I'm sure my fear is not rational

(http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e336/2006hespelt/P1010017.jpg)

Not HF but you get the idea. The vise on this lift will stabilize a bike very well but without wheels I opted for the straps. :dunno2:
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: frankenduck on December 29, 2012, 06:52:21 PM: I wish I'd found these magnetic metric nutsetters for $3.99 (w/ coupon) a long time ago. I know better than to use any torque on HF stuff but, since they're magnetic and relatively shallow, these should work great for starting nuts.

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_20266.jpg)

Also scored a magnetic parts tray for only $2.99. (w/ coupon)

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_12534.jpg)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Chaos on January 06, 2013, 01:40:01 PM: Picked up these for about $10 with sales and coupons. They're decent quality, especially for smaller nuts. Never really used 1/4" drive much until I got these. Couple things I love about them though is the small footprint of the holder, and the convenience of having all the sockets in one package. Used to spend half my garage time looking for misplaced sockets, this thing is now my go-to set for most jobs under 14mm. I marked the sizes on the holder with a paint marker, easier on the old eyes.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Motorhobo on March 22, 2014, 10:02:58 AM: Old thread -- but so what.

These are great -- color coded. I have a socket set you need an electron microscope to read the freakin' numbers.

(http://www.vanalbert.com/IMAGES/Tools/HFColorMetricSockets.jpg)

I always find new uses for these - so dirt cheap, can't go wrong

(http://www.vanalbert.com/IMAGES/Tools/HFPickAndHookSets.jpg)

I'm sure this is absolute crap but I've fixed stripped threads on my K75 mirrors, mic stand thumbscrews and lots of other stuff, so if you don't have a tap and die set this is better'n nuttin'.

(http://www.vanalbert.com/IMAGES/Tools/HFTapAndDieSet.jpg)

(http://www.vanalbert.com/IMAGES/Tools/)

I've used this now for 2 spline lubes -- someday I'll graduate to the platform but this works great for my needs in my limited space right now.

(http://www.vanalbert.com/IMAGES/Tools/PoorMansKBikeJack.jpg)

This is an unadulterated piece of garbage. First time it tipped over, all the bearings on the rollers cascaded across the floor and within a month the weld points on the casters were failing. BUT -- I bought another one anyway as a cheap Xmas gift and used the receipt to return the broken one -- the HF sales guy didn't even look at the receipt, just handed me a new one. This one seems to be holding up better, but it's still garbage. Handy garbage though, I use it all the time and have gotten my money's worth out of the replacement.

(http://www.vanalbert.com/IMAGES/Tools/RollerSeat.jpg)

I got the 1/4 drive for Xmas and bought the 3/8 drive on sale for $12. I read a bunch of reviews that said these things are better than the Craftsman stuff at 3X the price as long as you reset to 0 after each use. We'll see...I have a 3/8 bar-style one I can calibrate against.

(http://www.vanalbert.com/IMAGES/Tools/HFTorqueWrenches.jpg)

I keep this in my beater car and have used it dozens of times...I don't think the ones you get at the auto parts stores are much better. It works to get whatever it is lifted so it can be supported, that's all it needs to do.
(http://www.vanalbert.com/IMAGES/Tools/TrolleyJack.jpg)

Also, I have an assortment of needlenoses, the precision tiny ones have come in very very handy, as have the long 11" ones. There's a lot of things I wouldn't get at HF like vise grips or anything that runs on electricity but for the dinky crap it's fine.

Van
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Kyle10 on March 26, 2014, 01:44:01 PM: My new HF air gauge doesn't seem to be registering air pressure...?
(http://i1008.photobucket.com/albums/af203/cash4brass/HarborFreightAirGuage1_zps82ba3c03.jpg) (http://s1008.photobucket.com/user/cash4brass/media/HarborFreightAirGuage1_zps82ba3c03.jpg.html)

Could be the issue. Harboring some buyer's remorse...
(http://i1008.photobucket.com/albums/af203/cash4brass/HarborFreightAirGuage2_zps5948a168.jpg) (http://s1008.photobucket.com/user/cash4brass/media/HarborFreightAirGuage2_zps5948a168.jpg.html)

FAIL
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Kyle10 on March 26, 2014, 02:11:08 PM: A must for any and all K bike riders
(http://i1008.photobucket.com/albums/af203/cash4brass/HarborFreightArrowcopter_zps9388bfb9.jpg) (http://s1008.photobucket.com/user/cash4brass/media/HarborFreightArrowcopter_zps9388bfb9.jpg.html)

Yep, available at your local HF...

PASS
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: subforry on March 26, 2014, 02:29:42 PM: Junk http://www.harborfreight.com/8-piece-bolstered-screwdriver-set-94899.html (http://www.harborfreight.com/8-piece-bolstered-screwdriver-set-94899.html)
The bolt-head at the top is not connected to the screwdriver shaft.

To balance the good and the bad, here is an item that I am very happy with
http://www.harborfreight.com/120-led-rechargeable-under-hood-work-light-60793.html (http://www.harborfreight.com/120-led-rechargeable-under-hood-work-light-60793.html)
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: The Mighty Gryphon on August 22, 2014, 10:43:38 PM: I work around boats in a marina and we are always losing tools in the water. All our wrenches are HF now because it doesn't hurt so much to hear them splash.

Would never buy anything with a motor or a cutting edge there.

My favorite purchases so far are the metric Allen wrench set http://www.harborfreight.com/metric-hex-wrench-system-9-pc-69084.html (http://www.harborfreight.com/metric-hex-wrench-system-9-pc-69084.html) and the "hockey puck" LED light http://www.harborfreight.com/27-led-portable-worklightflashlight-69567-8869.html. (http://www.harborfreight.com/27-led-portable-worklightflashlight-69567-8869.html.)

I got the wrenches when I bought my bike last April, and have used them to take almost everything on it apart. They fit perfectly, and show no wear at all after a lot of use. The ball ends are surprisingly strong.

I must have bought a couple dozen of those lights. I give them away and have them everywhere at home and on my boat, bike and in my cars. One caveat though. There seems to be two manufacturers of these lights and the ones with the shiny blue case are junk, look for the ones with the flat finish blue case. They are on sale now for $3. Will probably pick up a couple this weekend.

Another good deal is their tape measures. Especially when they are on sale, or better yet, FREE.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: wmax351 on September 26, 2014, 01:39:21 PM: Their el-cheapo stick welder does the job. http://www.harborfreight.com/70-amp-ac-120-volt-stick-welder-68888.html (http://www.harborfreight.com/70-amp-ac-120-volt-stick-welder-68888.html)

Make sure to buy 1/16th electrodes though. It says it will do 3/32, I say it doesn't. Get some good 7014 or 6013 electrodes and it welds quite nicely. 6011 work too. They just have to all be 1/16th. I used it to fabricate and install a floorpan on my 1986 BMW 325es.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: leaton10 on October 14, 2015, 09:18:54 PM: A funny ad!
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Laitch on October 16, 2015, 10:01:00 AM: "Muppet-Grade" Right there's a worthy benchmark goal!
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: TimTyler on March 13, 2016, 06:27:48 PM: This $10 bag of goodies might come in handy for those of us who have 2-pin battery tender plugs hooked up to our bike.

http://www.harborfreight.com/solar-power-connection-cable-kit-68684.html

Positive and negative battery clamps
Male cigarette lighter power plug
Female cigarette lighter power port
Dual two pin keyed connector
LED charge indicator
12 volt adapter cable
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Scud on March 13, 2016, 07:16:08 PM: I got a used HF bike lift (found on Craigslist) and it's still going strong. Very happy with it.

Also happy with some metric deep impact sockets and a pair of breaker bars (3/8 and 1/2 drive). Although I have not yet used these sockets with an impact wrench.
http://www.harborfreight.com/12-in-drive-18-in-breaker-bar-67932.html

How can you go wrong with cheap hammer? This min-sledge has been great for driving out wheel bearings and other stubborn things.
http://www.harborfreight.com/2-12-lb-hardwood-drilling-hammer-67816.html

As an aside - I really like the Pit Posse wheel bearing remover (not available at Harbor Freight).
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: The Mighty Gryphon on March 13, 2016, 07:31:33 PM: I will admit that I buy almost all my tools at Harbor Freight now(I still won't buy anything with a motor, sprays paint or has a cutting edge, though). However, for single sockets, you still can't beat Sears Craftsman. I just bought a 30mm socket for $9. Couldn't get it at any price at HF.

Judging from the look of the store I was in, I would hurry and get what I need while they're still in business.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: johnny on March 13, 2016, 07:42:00 PM: can getts the whole shebang with the solar panel here... cordless pos drill sold separately...

(http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_23522.jpg) (http://www.harborfreight.com/13-watt-briefcase-solar-charger-68750.html)

j o
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Chaos on June 29, 2017, 11:25:49 AM: This thread needs a bump. I got these a couple years ago an they get used a couple times a week. Worth having around.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Martin on June 29, 2017, 11:40:24 AM: I am waiting and waiting hoping that they start up in OZ.
Regards an impatient Martin.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Al on June 30, 2017, 11:50:02 PM: Might this be part of the problem?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwGrC0KicSo
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: stokester on July 01, 2017, 09:49:46 AM: I've found a few things like rags, acid brushes, panel tools and have known folks pleased with the tool chests and the MC lift table but I would never buy anything that needed an accurate calibration or value. The wrenches and sockets are good for a base to bend and weld to make specialty tools.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Andy FitzGibbon on July 01, 2017, 10:39:26 AM: I have been using their Pittsburgh "Professional" combination wrenches for nearly 20 years now, and haven't broken one, even with hard use and occasional abuse.

The five drawer tool cart mentioned a couple pages back is indeed a very nice piece. All of the US General boxes are. They're built to a higher standard than a lot of the no name HF stuff.

I've also had a HF steering wheel puller kit for over 20 years, and it's been quite handy (used it to pull several Japanese motorcycle flywheels). They still sell the same kit.

Just drilled twelve 3/4" holes in my shop floor (to mount a car hoist) using one of their SDS MAX rotary hammer bits, and it performed flawlessly.

It's kind of like going to Vegas... everything is a gamble, but sometimes you beat the house.

Andy
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Chaos on July 01, 2017, 06:58:13 PM: I stay away from most of the electrical stuff, battery, plug in or diagnostic. Recently bought their 3 ton low profile floor jack with 20" lift, $74 on sale, love it. Also picked up their MC wheel balancer, worth it even for a couple tires a year.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: jakgieger on July 02, 2017, 12:04:28 AM: Quote from: Al on June 30, 2017, 11:50:02 PM
Might this be part of the problem?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwGrC0KicSo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwGrC0KicSo)
:hehehe ...wife and I are going to see Corb in Tulsa OK
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: RobP on July 02, 2017, 11:16:21 PM: Their pneumatic sheet metal nibbler is designed for and works fine on 18 gauge sheetmetal.

The large 3" tubing/pipe cutter is unworkable. The cutting wheel is cockeyed at an angle and won't track in the same groove, basically it just creates a spiral groove up the length of the pipe.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: Martin on July 03, 2017, 01:03:48 AM: Rob amongst other things I used to be a pipe fitter, and you can experience the same problem with expensive Ridgid pipe cutters. You can overcome this by applying a bit of a twist on the cutter to compensate. The larger the diameter pipe the more chance of cutting a spiral.
Regards Martin.
Title: Re: Harbor Freight Value
Post by: White Dog on July 05, 2017, 10:44:31 AM: I've used my $69 HF motorcycle lift for several years, hoisting my 940+ lbs. Gold Wing without any problems. As soon as I figure out what mounts to make, I can use it for my K75 and R1100RT.

I also have 3 different click type torque wrenches I use and they have never failed.