Harbor Freight Tools that don't suck

[patrick_g]

Originally Posted by chumly2071

a lot of this type of equipment I bought to try out, before spending huge $$$ on commercial grade equipment. It was better for me to spend a little, learn a lot, then upgrade, instead of spend a lot on fewer machines, and learn less. I can upgrade as needed.

A very prudent approach, sir.

I have bought HF stuff before thinking that if it turned out really useful before it broke or went awry, I could buy a "real one" and am still waiting for it to break or mess up and force me to buy a real one.

Pat

[John861]

One of my favorites is the 2 1/2 ton long frame jack. It's great for lifting tractors and tall trucks because it lifts to 31". I didn't need the capacity of the similar 10 ton unit. I like begin able to jack up things without stacking blocks.

Also, the 30 ton log splitter has worked well for me. With the Robin engine and Haldex/Barnes pump, I figured I couldn't go wrong. The only thing I'd change is a larger foot plate. Then again, they recommend a maximum log size of 8".

[shvl73]

Stopped at the HF in Springfield, MA. The small flux core welder was $119+ tax. I passed. If I see it again for <$100, I might go for it.

[DetroitTom]

Originally Posted by shvl73

Stopped at the HF in Springfield, MA. The small flux core welder was $119+ tax. I passed. If I see it again for <$100, I might go for it.

If you haven't already, you might want to sign up for their online coupon emails. These emails also include a list of free shipping to store offers and a link to their local sale circular.

Everything goes on sale eventually and often at a huge discount over the regular price.

[shvl73]

Originally Posted by DetroitTom

If you haven't already, you might want to sign up for their online coupon emails. These emails also include a list of free shipping to store offers and a link to their local sale circular.

Everything goes on sale eventually and often at a huge discount over the regular price.

Where do you sign up?
I've filled out the little card in store twice, and nothing so far.

[California]

Originally Posted by shvl73

I've filled out the little card in store twice, and nothing so far.

You might check your spam bin. I had to whitelist harborfreight and harborfreight22.com to get them past my ISP's default spamtrap.

Here's their online signup to get their email coupons:
Coupon Signup

[stevem5215]

I have that 90/100 amp 115v flux welder also. Got it the day after t-giving for $89. It was a steal at that price. Although, I'm only planning on using it about 1 time a year I figure that I'll get my money's worth just using it a couple times. I already have used it twice this year so I'm ahead of schedule. Welded a chair leg back on and welded hooks onto the tractor. Although I agree about the flux wire. I'm going to get some new stuff. I think there's something wrong with the wire that was supplied with the unit.

Steve

[RobJ]

I had the 100 Mig for a few years now. I just retired it. It worked ok, on light stuff. I had feeding problems from time to time. Replacement tips are the same as Lincoln and can be found at HD. Keep the cable straight and it feeds much better. Recently mine stopped pushing the wire through. The line is ok just spins. I have the spring adjustment maxes out and actually a little more (if you have one you know what I'm doing).

The bad parts about is the wire is always HOT. Touch the wire to the work without pulling the trigger and she sparks. ALso the wire tube is plastic. Don't let anything fall on it. And the cable that holds the wire tube and other 2 wires is thin rubber. It won't take any heat, it'll melt like butter.

I got mine for $99 on sale (print and take in an internet page in and the stores will honor, same with a printed ad). I still have and sometimes use the 220v mig. Got that one with a printed ad for $179. It actually has some good power and has a COLD gun. I still mostly use a stick, but I just received a HH 140 the other day with C25.

[patrick_g]

Originally Posted by RobJ

I had the 100 Mig for a few years now. I just retired it. It worked ok, on light stuff. I had feeding problems from time to time. Replacement tips are the same as Lincoln and can be found at HD. Keep the cable straight and it feeds much better. Recently mine stopped pushing the wire through. The line is ok just spins. I have the spring adjustment maxes out and actually a little more (if you have one you know what I'm doing).

I have the Lincoln Weld PAK 100 which feeds better if the cable is not kinked or bent too sharply. The only other feed problems I have had are due to rusty wire. When I got a bad snarl when driving off road I had to take a lot of wire off the spool. Being frugal I just put in out on the ground and fed it though. Worked OK first day but not second, due to light rust. I tossed the last few feet and went back to the remainder of the 11 lb spool and all is good.

Pat

[DetroitTom]

I've been real happy with these hose/cable hangers:

Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices

Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices

Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices

Usually on sale for a buck.