Harbor Freight Tools that don't suck

[Ford850]

I won't buy any more battery or corded tools from HF. I did buy their horizontal band saw which runs great, but I did that knowing I can replace the motor when it burns up. I recently had to open one of the paddle switch HF angle grinders I have. I was reattaching the cord that cracked when used in cool weather. When I saw the electrical guts I was shocked it was still running. Poorly routed wires, rubbed bare and melted in places. No more for me, thanks.

 

[Diggin It]

Couple more holes with the punch set. Drilled a small hole, then used the small punch to cut a hole for the bigger punch bolt set since I don't have a big enough drill bit. Worked fine for the first two, then didn't want to cut the next hole. Kept trying to go sideways which I attributed to the angle I was trying to work at. Figured I'd back it out and try a different angle to get my hand into the area. That's when I discovered I had the set backwards and was trying to cut into the solid back instead of the die recess. I had started to flatten the cutting points. so much they wouldn't go into the recess properly once I got it turned around the right way. Took a file to them and cleaned them up so they would fit, then tried the hole again. Worked fine that time, even with the damaged edge.


If I was another type of person, I'd take it back and gripe to get a replacement. But I'm not THAT person.

 

[lostcreekranch]

I bought the Haul Master 16" x 30" poly cart, a couple of months ago, for my 6L ultrasonic cleaner and associated degreasers, rust removers, etc.

It works well, rolls easily, and was simple to assemble.

It was priced at $89.99 when I bought it and they accepted my 20% coupon too. So .. out the door for $72.

16 In. x 3 In. Industrial Polypropylene Service Cart

 

[JethroB]

I bought the Haul Master 16" x 30" poly cart, a couple of months ago, for my 6L ultrasonic cleaner and associated degreasers, rust removers, etc.

It works well, rolls easily, and was simple to assemble.

It was priced at $89.99 when I bought it and they accepted my 20% coupon too. So .. out the door for $72.

16 In. x 3 In. Industrial Polypropylene Service Cart

View attachment 675351

That cart looks handy. Maybe I will get a couple, one for in-project tools and one for grease/oil stuff.

 

[John_Mc]

I bought one of the US General 22" x 26" tool storage cabinets a couple of years ago. I've been very happy with it, except for one thing: the mice are also very happy with it. Evey few months, I find a drawer filled with chewed up paper towels & rags, seeds/grain/nuts, and LOTS of mouse poop. Does anyone have suggestions on how to mouse-proof one of these things?

 

[lostcreekranch]

That cart looks handy. Maybe I will get a couple, one for in-project tools and one for grease/oil stuff.

I bought one of their bigger 24"x36" carts a few years ago that's given very good service for general purposes. Dedicating a cart for the ultra sonic so .. didn't need another big one.

24 In. x 36 In. Polypropylene Industrial Service Cart

 

[Topzide]

Took a chance on the Admiral 7 1/4 " metal blade. What a pleasant surprise! Cut some 5/16 angle with very pleasant results. Smooth cutting, no burrs and no overheating of the metal. Used in older circular saw with very little sparks. It not going to cut like you would a 2 x 4 , but for $19, I'm quite pleased. Would love to find older 7 1/4" miter saw for making accurate 90° and 45° cut in small angle and tubing.

 

[California]

Note that harbor freight now has a replacement part program.

Harbor Freight Parts

For some tools. I was just looking at the $200 Titanium Easy-Flux 125 Amp Welder. Only a single part is available: The hard-rubber tip protector. Looks like when this welder needs anything, throw it away. Nothing else on it is in common with the other Titanium models per HF's parts listing.

The other Titanium Migs show only feed roller and spool brake for internal parts. Plus the external parts - ground clamp with cable, torch with cable, power cord, etc.

HF isn't quite there with support for these. Buy the extended warranty!

 

[5030]

For some tools. I was just looking at the $200 Titanium Easy-Flux 125 Amp Welder. Only a single part is available: The hard-rubber tip protector. Looks like when this welder needs anything, throw it away. Nothing else on it is in common with the other Titanium models per HF's parts listing.

The other Titanium Migs show only feed roller and spool brake for internal parts. Plus the external parts - ground clamp with cable, torch with cable, power cord, etc.

HF isn't quite there with support for these. Buy the extended warranty!

At 200 bucks and a flux core marginal amperage welder, I'd say it qualifies as a disposa-welder.

 

[5030]

I bought one of the US General 22" x 26" tool storage cabinets a couple of years ago. I've been very happy with it, except for one thing: the mice are also very happy with it. Evey few months, I find a drawer filled with chewed up paper towels & rags, seeds/grain/nuts, and LOTS of mouse poop. Does anyone have suggestions on how to mouse-proof one of these things?

Get a tabby.