Harbor Freight Tools that don't suck

[sixdogs]

How did you get the XT model for only $95? They have a composite Earthquake for around that price but it's not the XT model?

There was a flier in my email. Took it and got the tool. It might have been $96 or $97.

 

[KubotainNH]

I almost was able to set aside the overpowering smell of deteriorating Chinese rubber.

LOL, that is one thing I can do without. The rubber wheels on my new welder cart smelled like this too, I let them soak in vinegar and water which helped a bunch.

 

[npalen]

Benchtop Blast Cabinet
Received this unit and set it up this weekend. Was a bit apprehensive having read a number of threads regarding issues with the Harbor Freight blasting cabinets. There was very little assembly required and had to reseal only one small area next to a corner due to a shipping ding.
I added a 21" fluorescent light up in the rear inside corner which provides plenty of light for blasting. Using Black Beauty 20-40 mesh media which leaves a nice paintable surface on steel and cast iron.

 

[lostcreekranch]

Benchtop Blast Cabinet
Received this unit and set it up this weekend. Was a bit apprehensive having read a number of threads regarding issues with the Harbor Freight blasting cabinets. There was very little assembly required and had to reseal only one small area next to a corner due to a shipping ding.
I added a 21" fluorescent light up in the rear inside corner which provides plenty of light for blasting. Using Black Beauty 20-40 mesh media which leaves a nice paintable surface on steel and cast iron.

There are many videos posted on YouTube on performance enhancing modifications for the HF blast cabinets. Most are for the floor model but, I do remember some for the bench top model.

Please give us some feedback after you use it a while. Hope you have plenty of air compressor. I'm looking at the HF 5 HP/ 60 gallon unit.

 

[npalen]

There are many videos posted on YouTube on performance enhancing modifications for the HF blast cabinets. Most are for the floor model but, I do remember some for the bench top model.

Please give us some feedback after you use it a while. Hope you have plenty of air compressor. I'm looking at the HF 5 HP/ 60 gallon unit.

I'm running a 6HP/60 Gallon compressor and it seems to be plenty. Yeah, I've watched a lot of videos and read a bunch of posts and, like you say, lots of mods being done on the Harbor Freight blast cabinets.
To be honest, I'm happy with the unit as is but may find a need for some improvements as time goes on. My biggest concern was media leaks, (sounds like some kind of political issue, doesn't it) but everything seems to be sealed up fine including the door. I think that the reason for this is the fact that the unit comes prebuilt with welded and bolted construction.
I mounted the unit to the shop wall today to preserve floor space and it doesn't take up much room.

 

[dragoneggs]

I'm running a 6HP/60 Gallon compressor and it seems to be plenty. Yeah, I've watched a lot of videos and read a bunch of posts and, like you say, lots of mods being done on the Harbor Freight blast cabinets.
To be honest, I'm happy with the unit as is but may find a need for some improvements as time goes on. My biggest concern was media leaks, (sounds like some kind of political issue, doesn't it) but everything seems to be sealed up fine including the door. I think that the reason for this is the fact that the unit comes prebuilt with welded and bolted construction.
I mounted the unit to the shop wall today to preserve floor space and it doesn't take up much room.

The media leaks can be fixed easily with a little silicon or poly urethane sealant. Most importantly, you need negative pressure in your cabinet. Those that try to blast without sucking enough air out as exhaust are the ones who ***** like he11. Not the cabinet's fault.

 

[bcp]

Interesting comment on the HF flag.

3 Ft. x 5 Ft. American Flag with Embroidered Stars

Bruce

 

[downsizingnow48]

A few years back Minnesota made it illegal to sell American flags unless they are made in the USA.

 

[Pixguy]

A few years back Minnesota made it illegal to sell American flags unless they are made in the USA.

Yup, I bought a few flags this week and I would never buy an American flag made outside the US.

 

[Gem99ultra]

Yup, I bought a few flags this week and I would never buy an American flag made outside the US.

yep - I'm with you 100%. Last time I picked up an American flag at WalMart I discovered that it was "Made in China". Promptly took it back for a refund. My American flag says "Made in the USA".