The Harbor Freight Thread

[dvonk]

i liked this thread on the old forum, so i figured it should be resurrected! :biggrin: tell us your experiences with Harbor Freight hardware; great buys, stuff to avoid, etc.

did anyone else hit up the 25% off sale on the 4th of July? i got a 10" Compound Miter Saw (http://www.harborfreight.com/10-inch-compound-miter-saw-91995.html) that i used to build a custom-size picture frame. it works well so far! :thumbup:

http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_6042.jpg

[jackb]

I've bought lots of great stuff from Harbor Freight.
Big stuff - Drill press, shop press
Smaller stuff - sockets, wrenches, punches, specialty drivers, mechanical oil pressure gauge, grease gun and fittings, vacuum bleeder.... I know there's lots more, I just can't remember it all without going home and looking in the garage.

[Ashyukun]

It wasn't picked up at the 25% off 4th sale, but I'm loving the 18V cordless electric impact wrench I picked up a few weeks ago. It's not as powerful as my air-powered one of course, but is much more convenient for quick jobs vs. powering up the compressor and waiting for it to build up pressure, and then having to decompress it after.

[dvonk]

is this the product (http://www.harborfreight.com/18-volt-12-cordless-impact-wrench-67845.html) of which you speak?

http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_9392.jpg

[DeLorean03]

Their handheld voltmeters like the one John sells worked great for me. $6 and still going strong. All their crimping tools for wiring and their bundles of wire end connectors (male and female spades, loop ends, wire to wire connectors) have all served me well.

[whocruiser]

Got half a dozen of those neat little LED flashlights that they used to hand out for free with the Sunday newspaper coupon stashed in various places, including one in the armrest bin of the Delorean. :monkeys:

[Ashyukun]

is this the product (http://www.harborfreight.com/18-volt-12-cordless-impact-wrench-67845.html) of which you speak?

http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_9392.jpg
Yup, that's it. Served me quite well when I was changing out the front springs. I think I paid about $80 for it after the 20% off coupon I had, and it's been well worth it. Only downside is that its battery isn't compatible with a lot of the more common, better tools from other places (Home Depot has a nice 18V set for $80 with a drill & a flashlight) but I might pick up more of HF's rechargeable tools down the line.

[GS450-Junkie]

they were the only place I could find the square sockets for the oil drain plug.

[Chris4099]

I got this gauge set (http://www.harborfreight.com/a-c-manifold-gauge-set-92649.html) and have used it several times of various family cars for AC recharges and service. So far it's holding up well!
http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_2519.jpg

While I got this (http://www.harborfreight.com/25-cfm-vacuum-pump-98076.html) under a different brand name, it's the same vacuum. Not a cheap part and not used very often, it's still cheaper then going to an AC shop. At least that's how I justified the cost. :biggrin:
http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_4020.jpg

For something really cheap, I got these valve stem caps (http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-anodized-aluminum-valve-set-silver-99770.html). Cheap and look good against my machine finished wheels.
http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_4303.jpg

[dvonk]

i remember from the old thread some talk about the Rapid Pump 1.5 Ton Compact Aluminum Racing Jack (http://www.harborfreight.com/rapid-pump-15-ton-compact-aluminum-racing-jack-68053-html-7814.html):

http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_9775.jpg

will this jack fit under a DeLorean? what are your impressions on it?

[jackb]

i remember from the old thread some talk about the Rapid Pump 1.5 Ton Compact Aluminum Racing Jack (http://www.harborfreight.com/rapid-pump-15-ton-compact-aluminum-racing-jack-68053-html-7814.html):

http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_9775.jpg

will this jack fit under a DeLorean? what are your impressions on it?
Yes, it will fit, and it's an excellent jack. Amazingly lightweight too. I've used it on my Delorean and Civic. It will fit under the front of the Delorean with lowered springs.

[awildermode]

i remember from the old thread some talk about the Rapid Pump 1.5 Ton Compact Aluminum Racing Jack (http://www.harborfreight.com/rapid-pump-15-ton-compact-aluminum-racing-jack-68053-html-7814.html):

http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_9775.jpg

will this jack fit under a DeLorean? what are your impressions on it?

Fits under stock or lowered DeLorean just fine. I guess it is like another jack out there. As long as it is used for good (and not evil), you should be fine.

[dvonk]

awesome, i think ill get one. i have a coupon from this weeks paper that drops the price to $59.99.

[Mike C.]

Have the jack, it's perfect for my lowered D. My standard floor jack is useless on this car.

[Nicholas R]

It's an awesome jack. I love the idea of the rubber pad too instead of the metal cup.

[protodelorean]

December 2011 Issue of Hot Rod Magazine has the current Harbor Freight ad (p30-31). They've got their "90 Amp Flux Wire Welder" on sale for $89.99. Obviously it's not a top-of-the-line unit and if you find you enjoy welding, you'll eventually step up to a bigger unit, but if you're ready to expand your fabrication horizons beyond bolts, screws and rivets, this is a great way to get your feet wet in the world of welding. You'll have $90 worth of fun the first time you plug this thing in.

DISCLAIMER - I have no affiliation with Harbor Freight. I just got hooked on welding with my first wire feed welder 15 years ago.

[Kenny_Z]

Let me add, if you can weld with that thing then when you step up to a more expensive unit you will be able to weld anything. It's a great starter welder but I'm so glad mine bit the dust and I upgraded. I didn't know what I was missing :D

[Bitsyncmaster]

Wire welding is so much easier than the stick welding I was brought up using. When you step up go all the way and get the shielding gas tank and regulator. Then you can use smaller wire (non flux coated) and weld thinner metal. Of course you want the auto darkening helmet.

[protodelorean]

Another benefit of the shielding gas (true MIG) is that there's no slag that has to be scraped off like with the flux core.

[1Mcfly4u]

I want to try my hand at welding, they even offer classes at the local Community College. Perhaps I will pick this up, thanks for the heads up! :thumbup:

[SamHill]

This morning in the office a guy is playing with a $20 remote helicopter from HF. Amazing control on that little thing.

[dvonk]

i just stumbled across these on the Harbor Freight website:

30 Piece Self-Testing ATO/ATC Auto Fuse Set (http://insidetrackclub.harborfreight.com/30-piece-self-testing-ato-atc-auto-fuse-set-67693.html)

http://insidetrackclub.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/2/thumbnail/370x370/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_19180.jpg

they illuminate with an LED when the fuse blows. sounds like they would be handy for someone who was working through the DeLorean's electrical system trying to find bugs/shorts. anyone ever try these?

[nullset]

i just stumbled across these on the Harbor Freight website:

30 Piece Self-Testing ATO/ATC Auto Fuse Set (http://insidetrackclub.harborfreight.com/30-piece-self-testing-ato-atc-auto-fuse-set-67693.html)

http://insidetrackclub.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/2/thumbnail/370x370/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_19180.jpg

they illuminate with an LED when the fuse blows. sounds like they would be handy for someone who was working through the DeLorean's electrical system trying to find bugs/shorts. anyone ever try these?

I think I just pulled one of these from my car. The light was on. And it was solidly melted through, and still providing power quite nicely.

Think about it. The led can't come on unless power is flowing through it, so how can it tell you when the fuse blows? BY STILL PROVIDING POWER TO THE CIRCUIT!

So now, instead of something not working at all when a fuse blows, it still sort of works, acts flakey, and a light tells you something is wrong.

No thanks. I'll post a picture of that fuse and you'll probably agree.

--buddy

[dvonk]

hm, i could see where that could pose a problem...

[Ozzie]

i remember from the old thread some talk about the Rapid Pump 1.5 Ton Compact Aluminum Racing Jack (http://www.harborfreight.com/rapid-pump-15-ton-compact-aluminum-racing-jack-68053-html-7814.html):

http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_9775.jpg

will this jack fit under a DeLorean? what are your impressions on it?



Yes, it will fit, and it's an excellent jack. Amazingly lightweight too. I've used it on my Delorean and Civic. It will fit under the front of the Delorean with lowered springs.


On sale $89 ...and use this code: 90693568 ...and it knocks $30 off.
Great deal. Don't know how long that code is good for, but it is working today.

I've also been using this jack on my cars as well (D, Mazda, Supra). It has it's limits, wouldn't use it if you are a full time mechanic/shop, for SUVs, but it is great for the occasional garage mechanic.

[dvonk]

i actually just got that jack a few days ago for $59 using a coupon. smoking deal! i havent had a chance to use it yet, but i know itll be better than the cast iron beast i have now. :hihi2:

[jawn101]

I was just at HF yesterday to look at jacks and was not sure if that one would fit under a lowered D. They have much lower-profile ones but they are much more expensive. I am hopefully putting my springs in today and will measure/decide then.

[Bitsyncmaster]

I have two floor jacks. One is 1.5 ton and the other 2.5 ton. I would never buy another 1.5 ton or less but I do use it when I use both jacks at the same time. I usually jack the rear or front with each jack at the normal jack points. Maybe my cheap 1.5 ton jack is not truly a 1.5 ton unit.

[opethmike]

I was just at HF yesterday to look at jacks and was not sure if that one would fit under a lowered D. They have much lower-profile ones but they are much more expensive. I am hopefully putting my springs in today and will measure/decide then.

I have a C5 Corvette and my DeLorean, which is lowered. Normal floor jacks are useless on both cars. Instead of buying a very expensive low profile jack, I simply drive up on 2x4s.

[Ozzie]

On weight:
D is let's say 3000lb.
Let's say weight is distributed F/R: 40%/60%.
So the jack needs to lift, in the rear, 1800 lb.
This jack is rated for 3000lb.
On my Supra, this jack will needs to extend to it's limits to lift the rear enough to get stands on, and it groans and creeks at the limits, but gets the job done.

On clearance:
Slides under stock D w/o issues.
Local owner's car, much lowered than mine, than stock, and this jack slid fine underneath.
What you don't get, initially, is a lot of lever/crank movement, but as the car goes up, it increases.
Curiously this jack is STILL not low enough for my Mazda, because the jack point is so far behind the front bumper that you have no lever/crank movement available.

Notes:
Whatever jack you buy, please always use in combination with with stands, to lift and access under the car.
Best deal to lift the front of a low car, and to use most any jack, is to use the tip by the Ohio Club, of making two step ramps for the front wheels.

[Spittybug]

Can't recommend enough... http://www.gesusa.com/Dannmar-MaxJax-Two-Post-Lift-p/1375659.htm especially as you get older and find Advil to be your best friend after working on the car. If it is "on your list" after all the bits and pieces that your car needs:
You'll probably run out of money first
Wouldn't you prefer to install those parts using one of these?


No, I don't work for these people or get a commission! I just love mine. When I move, all I have to do is buy 10 more concrete inserts for my next garage. My buddy has actually considered drilling his floor and just borrowing my lift on occasions.

[dvonk]

man, id love to have a MaxJax. first priority is a DeLorean, of course. :biggrin:

also... im not sure if my 90 year old garage floor would be able to support it... :paranoid:

[Morpheus]

Ok boys and girls, I have a HF question.

I'm looking to get a blast cabinet to start cleaning the mountain of rusty and dirty parts I'm starting to accumulate while taking my car apart. I have a feeling that if I can blast these parts myself it might save on the total cost of having things re-plated & powder coated.

That in mind, I was wondering if any of you have one of these:

http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/370x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_11310.jpg
http://www.harborfreight.com/garage-shop/blast-cabinets/abrasive-blast-cabinet-42202.html

If i were to buy one of these, what sort of media should I use to clean off D parts?

[protodelorean]

I've actually got the next step up. http://www.harborfreight.com/40-lb-capacity-floor-blast-cabinet-93608.html On sale and with a 20% coupon, it was like $180

Been working well so far. For best results, you need to have a dust collection system hooked up to it. Shop vac doesn't work well enough and will clog up.

I'm using glass bead. Bought 50lbs from Tractor Supply for $35 http://www.tractorsupply.com/black-bull-trade-no-80-grit-abrasive-glass-beads-3987722

[dvonk]

I've actually got the next step up. (http://www.harborfreight.com/40-lb-capacity-floor-blast-cabinet-93608.html) On sale and with a 20% coupon, it was like $180

ive had my eye on that one as well, its a great price for a nice looking unit... although i need a better compressor first. :lol:


For best results, you need to have a dust collection system hooked up to it. Shop vac doesn't work well enough and will clog up.

do you have the Harbor Freight Blast Cabinet Reclaimer (http://www.harborfreight.com/blast-cabinet-reclaimer-kit-94275.html)? a couple of the guys in the comments said they set up their 40lb. cabinets (93608 ) with it. if not, what do you use?

[protodelorean]

ive had my eye on that one as well, its a great price for a nice looking unit... although i need a better compressor first. :lol:



do you have the Harbor Freight Blast Cabinet Reclaimer (http://www.harborfreight.com/blast-cabinet-reclaimer-kit-94275.html)? a couple of the guys in the comments said they set up their 40lb. cabinets (93608 ) with it. if not, what do you use?

Actually, I had planned on using a large shop vac. (I wasn't satisfied with that) So I was planning on getting their dust collector, but I had never seen this reclaimer. I may do the reclaimer instead. Thanks!

[Morpheus]

ive had my eye on that one as well, its a great price for a nice looking unit... although i need a better compressor first. :lol:


That's my issue as well. I'm not sure that I can justify the extra cost of the bigger cabinet AND a bigger compressor. :(

[EdR5150]

Love the Magnetic Trays. Currently the 6" version is on sale for $2.49.
http://kk.org/wp-content/archiveimages/magnetbowl-sm.jpg
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-inch-magnetic-parts-holder-97825.html
Gonna go get a few more for the techies in my family.

[jawn101]

I got a pair of snap ring pliers there (the ones with the interchangeable tips) and they were a quality low even for HF. The metal they're made of is thinner and weaker than that of the snap rings. So you can imagine how useful they were :)

Even their shop rags are pretty weak as far as disposable pieces of cloth go. They smell horrible (Clint calls them 'death hankies'), lint on everything and when I washed a load of them they dyed all my garage clothes pink.

I did however get one of the 1.5 ton aluminum racing jacks and I'm very pleased with it. Has very fast, easy lift and a smooth controlled descent. And it's light.

[EdR5150]

Oversize low profile creeper, usually available for $20:
http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_20861.jpg
Lasted a few years, but couldn't take some abuse:
http://www.16908.info/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/20130616_110717-300x225.jpg

[wrkey]

I like HF but know that when I buy something REALLY cheap, I get what I pay for. But, I am very happy with many of my purchases there. The big ticket items I purchased was the 12,000lb winch, receiver mount and wireless remote to go on my H3T. This thing works great and I've had no trouble with it thus far.

19871 19872 19873

I also purchased the 880lb hoist for use at The Game Preserve to lift Pinball and Arcade machines up to the second floor work area. It has worked well for us but we use it infrequently and it's in an environment contolled location so i can't speak for how well it would hold up in a working garage/shop. Also purchased the gantry set from HF but couldn't find a photo of it.

19874

I've bought a lot of the LED flash lights, power strips and other smaller items that I catch on sale. I like HF, but again, research and validation of the quaility before purchase is always recommended. Oh.. and I bought the extended warranty on the 12,000lb winch because I tend to push things with the truck.

[Farrar]

My fiancé has a tendency to buy me presents from Harbor Freight. A few years ago she bought me a low-profile floor jack by Pittsburgh, because she was tired of watching me shove the rear end of the car up with my shoulder while putting my old jack under it. So far, it's held up fine -- much better than the Pittsburgh hand tools, which in my experience are about as reliable as a plumber's estimate. Also, a pop rivet tool from a couple of years ago -- just fine, though I've only installed about a dozen rivets with it so far. And yesterday she bought me a close-quarters drill by Drill Master. I didn't have a chance to use it, but it looks and feels a lot sturdier than the ones I've seen by Chicago Electric. Also, it's not cordless so I don't have to worry about cheap batteries losing their charge. I'm about to buy one of their rivet-nut tools, and I've heard they're not the best, but I only need to install a few rivet-nuts, anyway.