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The Harbor Freight Tool Review Thread!

galaxy

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Half my shit is from HF. A lot of the HF stuff is at least 10 years old. Home Depot has cheap tools. Harbor Freight has inexpensive tools.
Meh, I probably have to respectfully disagree over a beer on that one. HF has some cheap ass shit.
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I have a 1.5 ton aluminum racing jack from HF circa 2007 or 2008 and it’s outlasted any Crapsman or auto parts jack I’ve ever purchased. It’s the lightest duty, but quickest and sturdiest jack I’ve had. I’ve dropped a car on it (by mistake) and it still does its thing. I’m amazed the hydraulics didn’t crap out within 3mo like my 100lb 4 ton POS craftsman jack did.
 

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I have the US General 72" tool box from HF and it has been superb.

All my basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, etc, etc) are Snap-On or Mac for the most part, but I couldn't swallow the price of a Snap-On 72". And when you're not making a living out of it, that can make all the difference in the world.
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I love your floor it is BADASS do they lock in or glue down?
 

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Having a HF close is nice I have a low profile jack, 6 ton stands, 2 ton stands, air gun, couple sets of sockets. It's like this got 5 kids that use stuff they loose stuff so a lot better of buying stuff from HF lol
I have never had a socket break from there but have a ton of sockets that broke from craftsman and ratchets. The drill bits a different story they suck!!
 

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@Decanes RaceDeck. 18” x 18” tiles that just snap/lock together. No glue. Nothing attaching it to the floor.
 

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Meh, I probably have to respectfully disagree over a beer on that one. HF has some cheap ass shit.
Why not shop at HF? A lot of their tools are inexpensive and have a life-time warranty to boot. If it breaks, take it to HF to get another one. You'd be surprised how many tool manufacturers make their stuff in China(Or another shitty country) now. I bet you can't name 1 tool manufacturer that doesn't make their tools in China? Go ahead... I'll wait.
 

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Why not shop at HF? A lot of their tools are inexpensive and have a life-time warranty to boot. If it breaks, take it to HF to get another one. You'd be surprised how many tool manufacturers make their stuff in China(Or another shitty country) now. I bet you can't name 1 tool manufacturer that doesn't make their tools in China? Go ahead... I'll wait.
let's fix your response first...So first, I never ever said don't shop at HF. I'm in this thread because I shop there and shared the items I own and have been extremely happy with;guess you overlooked that part. So don't call me out trying to make me look like an ass or make it look like I said don't shop there. I said they have some cheap tools, as in cheap vs inexpensive being different things, as this is my opinion. Actually, that's a fact, they are cheap by tool standards, but that doesn't mean it doesn't work for an intended purpose or have it's place. Second, I also never said jack shit about crap made in China or any other country, nor do I recall anyone else in this thread saying such, so don't try to stir the pot with that comment or put words in my mouth. I don't care where it's made, HF has some cheap ass tools. They serve a purpose and have their place. If I'm making a living with my tools every day (I don't now, but I used to), I don't want the hassle of breaking and dealing with a warranty. Sure, 100% guaranteed (on some tools) is awesome; I've never ever ever broken a Snap-On or Mac tool from my box. Worth the price of admission?? IDK, personal decision. To me it is. Obviously to you it's not, but don't call me out because of it. As for my favorite tools, where they're made is kinda irrelevant as long as it's a quality item. And don't dare even try to tell me you can't feel and tell the difference between a Snap-On ratchet and a Pittsburgh ratchet from HF, you'll embarrass yourself if you do. And why are you in a S550 forum anyways? Mik and I had a nice conversation over a beer, don't ruin it.
 

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First off, check the Harbor Freight Coupon Database before going. You can search by description or item number. https://www.hfqpdb.com/

I'm not including toolboxes in this, but I have two of the US General 44" toolboxes made into one 7 ft long bench and also a 56" US General - for the price they cannot be beat.

These are things I've found to be very good:


1. Daytona vehicle dollies - https://www.harborfreight.com/5200-Lb-Max-Vehicle-Weight-Ultra-Mobile-Self-Loading-Dolly-64601.html

Same thing as GoJack, but a LOT cheaper. $99 ea with coupon and even the stand goes on sale sometimes.

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2. Braun work light - https://www.harborfreight.com/390-lumen-magnetic-slim-bar-folding-led-work-light-63958.html

I have three of these, got some high capacity Li-Ion batteries for them, the fucking tits. $25 with coupon.

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3. Braun Underhood Work light - https://www.harborfreight.com/845-lumen-underhood-rechargeable-work-light-63990.html

Paired with a Bayco 2120 bracket (Amazon) this gets you a killer underhood work light equivalent to $200+ tool truck shit for less about $60! Light bar is $30 with coupon.

Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HWQ4GPA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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4. Daytona Super-Duty Low Profile Floor Jack - https://www.harborfreight.com/3-Ton-Low-Profile-Super-Duty-Rapid-Pump-Floor-Jack-63183.html

This is LITERALLY the same as the Snap-On (made by the same factory) for 1/4 the price. Snap-On even sued HF over it, and lost. If you need a jack, get one. $180 with coupon.

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5. Braun Color Match Light - https://www.harborfreight.com/merch...nal-rechargeable-color-match-light-56354.html

EDITED

For paint correction, this is a re-branded Astro 50SL which is $55 on Amazon. This is new to HF, It'll be cheaper with coupon once they come out.

I have an Astro 50SLMAX which is a dual color temperature LED, switchable depending on whether you're working on light or dark paint. That's not a deal breaker, it's an excellent light for paint correction and inspection.

56354_W3.jpg



6. Steel Folding Sawhorses - https://www.harborfreight.com/foldable-adjustable-sawhorse-69059.html

These are the perfect middle ground, sturdy but not too heavy either. $20 each with coupon. I've had the really heavy duty ones, WAY too much effort.

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7. Folding Welding Table - https://www.harborfreight.com/adjustable-steel-welding-table-61369.html

This is just like the Stronghand Tools Nomad table minus the casters for about 1/3 the price, maybe less. For a cramped shop it's an absolute lifesaver. Welding schools even buy these.

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8. Vulcan large welding cabinet - https://www.harborfreight.com/heavy-duty-large-welding-cabinet-63179.html

This thing replaced two other cabinets and holds all of my welding shit, it's easy to wheel around and tuck away under the stairs. Below is a coupon for 20% off that I saved on my phone.

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Honorable Mention:

1. The 20 Ton shop press does the job, but it's not what I'd call nice. But it is cheap and very handy, so get one.
2. The motorcycle lift table is great to have, basic but MUCH cheaper than almost any other option. I converted mine to air/hydraulic with a new cylinder from HF. If you do a lot of bike work it's a must have.
3. The 2 ton engine hoist and load leveler are both decent, and cheap
4. The 17 ft Multi Task Ladder they sell is a Little Giant clone and can be had for a little over $100 with coupon. I don't love this style of ladder, but it is very useful.
 
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aleccolin

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Continued:

9. Aluminum Jack Stands - https://www.harborfreight.com/3-ton-aluminum-jack-stands-91760.html

OMG all jack stands should be aluminum, it's SO much better. If you work off jack stands often, get two pairs of these, $35/pair with coupon

91760_W3.jpg



10. Bauer power drain snake - https://www.harborfreight.com/23-ft-auto-feed-handheld-electric-drain-cleaner-64063.html

I have no idea why they chose to style this loosely after an M-60 (complete with rear sight!) but this works really well and for $100 with coupon, it can save you a bunch in a visit from the plumber.

64063_I.jpg



11. Aluminum Motorcycle Jack - https://www.harborfreight.com/1500-...tas&utm_medium=monthly-ad&utm_campaign=012020

This is the same as the Craftsman version which I LOVE and is SO much better than other style bike jacks, but I think the Craftsman may be either discontinued or just hard to get because Sears is going under.

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12. Engine Support Bar - https://www.harborfreight.com/1000-...tas&utm_medium=monthly-ad&utm_campaign=012020

This thing is indispensable for certain jobs, like changing motor mounts or dropping your front subframe. One of those things you don't need often, but can't do without.

image_11976.jpg
 

Ebm

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let's fix your response first...So first, I never ever said don't shop at HF. I'm in this thread because I shop there and shared the items I own and have been extremely happy with;guess you overlooked that part. So don't call me out trying to make me look like an ass or make it look like I said don't shop there. I said they have some cheap tools, as in cheap vs inexpensive being different things, as this is my opinion. Actually, that's a fact, they are cheap by tool standards, but that doesn't mean it doesn't work for an intended purpose or have it's place. Second, I also never said jack shit about crap made in China or any other country, nor do I recall anyone else in this thread saying such, so don't try to stir the pot with that comment or put words in my mouth. I don't care where it's made, HF has some cheap ass tools. They serve a purpose and have their place. If I'm making a living with my tools every day (I don't now, but I used to), I don't want the hassle of breaking and dealing with a warranty. Sure, 100% guaranteed (on some tools) is awesome; I've never ever ever broken a Snap-On or Mac tool from my box. Worth the price of admission?? IDK, personal decision. To me it is. Obviously to you it's not, but don't call me out because of it. As for my favorite tools, where they're made is kinda irrelevant as long as it's a quality item. And don't dare even try to tell me you can't feel and tell the difference between a Snap-On ratchet and a Pittsburgh ratchet from HF, you'll embarrass yourself if you do. And why are you in a S550 forum anyways? Mik and I had a nice conversation over a beer, don't ruin it.
I don't know who the f$^% you think you are talking to, but you can drag your ass off that pedestal right now. I never called you out, I was simply making general statements. On top of that, I get the feeling you thought my response was aggressive or of a hateful attitude... I hate to tell you this, but you can't tell someone's tone over WORDS... It's impossible. Many bad things have happened when someone assumed someone else's tone(demeanor) over text.

I don't have to answer your smart-ass comment at the end, but I will to appease you. I first joined this forum when I had a 2016 Mustang Ecoboost. I got bored(usually have an itch to trade cars often) and sold it and got my current '14 GT. There's a lot of nice and knowledgeable people on here. Unfortunately you don't satisfy the first of those, the jury is out on the second.

To add something relevant to this thread, I have no reason to spend big money on tools because I don't make money working on cars. I agree, if making money working on cars, get the best possible quality tool you can for the job. Harbor Freight was originally intended for backyard mechanics, but they started to get into the professional tool end as well with Icon and a few other brands. I wouldn't be surprised if the Icon brand was just as good as Snap-On or Mac.
 

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Maybe the title is a bit pretentious, but I didn't find one on here, and I figured we could review what we've bought and if it's junk or not. I know HF has their own reviews, but they are vested in weeding out bad ones, I've had a few bad ones not get posted. I hope this thread doesn't turn into a Snap On vs HF comparison. I think most HF shoppers know they are not buying the best stuff, but the question is "will it work for the average guy/gal". Sometimes you find a gem, and other times a turd.

For ease of finding, may I suggest a format like:

Item Description:
Item link:
Item number:
Price paid:
0/10 score:
Longer Review:

Also, in case y'all don't know there is a great HF android app where people scan in coupons. It works great and the cashiers take them without any quibbles. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.g2018.hfcoupons&hl=en_US
And there is also a web page that has coupons and price changes as well: https://www.hfqpdb.com/

I'll start. I'll add more as I look up the tools I have from them.

Item Description: 215 Lumen Magnetic Pocket Work Light
Item Link: https://www.harborfreight.com/215-Lumen-Magnetic-Pocket-Work-Light-63935.html
Item number: 63935
Price paid: $3.99 on black friday sale
0/10 score: 7
Longer Review: It's a great flashlight for $4. It's pretty bright, and the 3 crappy AA batteries that came with it have lasted over 8 hours on the highest setting. I've dropped one in a bucket of water, and used the same one as a hammer, and it won't die. The magnet isn't very powerful and the darn thing rolls around only stopped by the little clip on the side. Why someone can't make a square flashlight is beyond me. I'm glad I bought 4 of them.


Item Description:33 Oz. LVLP General Purpose Air Spray Gun
Item link: https://www.harborfreight.com/33-oz...ray-gun-60612.html?_br_psugg_q=lvlp+spray+gun
Item number: There are two, I've tried both: 61455 and 60612
Price paid: $20 before the 20% off coupon
0/10 score: 0
Longer Review: This thing has great reviews on HF, but for the life of me, I could not get a consistent, good spray pattern out of it shooting latex, The latex was filtered through a #100 filter, thinned with flood, and latex thinned with flood and water. (This is LVLP and supposedly shoots Latex fine) I tried it with the stock tip, and I tried drilling the tip out to a size specified in the manual for shooting latex. Work piece was prepped properly, used behind a 30 gallon Craftsman air compressor, regulated at the gun, and with a moisture filter. I screwed around with it for about half an hour and was able to get a decent pattern. I immediately took it apart to completely wash it afterward. 2 hours later, when it was time to re-coat, as soon as I put it back together the brass collar on the pintle valve broke. I went to HF and exchanged it for a different SKU one. The other SKU one was slightly different, but this one was even worse, I flat out couldn't get a good spray out of it. I ended up using a Cambell Hausfeld HVLP sprayer (Didn't do anything to the paint that was already filtered, diluted with flood and water). Took all of 1 minute to get the spray dialed in and produced a fantastic spray.
Maybe the title is a bit pretentious, but I didn't find one on here, and I figured we could review what we've bought and if it's junk or not. I know HF has their own reviews, but they are vested in weeding out bad ones, I've had a few bad ones not get posted. I hope this thread doesn't turn into a Snap On vs HF comparison. I think most HF shoppers know they are not buying the best stuff, but the question is "will it work for the average guy/gal". Sometimes you find a gem, and other times a turd.

For ease of finding, may I suggest a format like:

Item Description:
Item link:
Item number:
Price paid:
0/10 score:
Longer Review:

Also, in case y'all don't know there is a great HF android app where people scan in coupons. It works great and the cashiers take them without any quibbles. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.g2018.hfcoupons&hl=en_US
And there is also a web page that has coupons and price changes as well: https://www.hfqpdb.com/

I'll start. I'll add more as I look up the tools I have from them.

Item Description: 215 Lumen Magnetic Pocket Work Light
Item Link: https://www.harborfreight.com/215-Lumen-Magnetic-Pocket-Work-Light-63935.html
Item number: 63935
Price paid: $3.99 on black friday sale
0/10 score: 7
Longer Review: It's a great flashlight for $4. It's pretty bright, and the 3 crappy AA batteries that came with it have lasted over 8 hours on the highest setting. I've dropped one in a bucket of water, and used the same one as a hammer, and it won't die. The magnet isn't very powerful and the darn thing rolls around only stopped by the little clip on the side. Why someone can't make a square flashlight is beyond me. I'm glad I bought 4 of them.


Item Description:33 Oz. LVLP General Purpose Air Spray Gun
Item link: https://www.harborfreight.com/33-oz...ray-gun-60612.html?_br_psugg_q=lvlp+spray+gun
Item number: There are two, I've tried both: 61455 and 60612
Price paid: $20 before the 20% off coupon
0/10 score: 0
Longer Review: This thing has great reviews on HF, but for the life of me, I could not get a consistent, good spray pattern out of it shooting latex, The latex was filtered through a #100 filter, thinned with flood, and latex thinned with flood and water. (This is LVLP and supposedly shoots Latex fine) I tried it with the stock tip, and I tried drilling the tip out to a size specified in the manual for shooting latex. Work piece was prepped properly, used behind a 30 gallon Craftsman air compressor, regulated at the gun, and with a moisture filter. I screwed around with it for about half an hour and was able to get a decent pattern. I immediately took it apart to completely wash it afterward. 2 hours later, when it was time to re-coat, as soon as I put it back together the brass collar on the pintle valve broke. I went to HF and exchanged it for a different SKU one. The other SKU one was slightly different, but this one was even worse, I flat out couldn't get a good spray out of it. I ended up using a Cambell Hausfeld HVLP sprayer (Didn't do anything to the paint that was already filtered, diluted with flood and water). Took all of 1 minute to get the spray dialed in and produced a fantastic spray.
Never trust a harbor freight torque wrench. Trust me.
 
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Never trust a harbor freight torque wrench. Trust me.
You mean the built-in "click" is actually the bolt snapping off? :)

I actually have them and do use them - for larger fasteners. For tiny fasteners, I have an old fashioned beam-style that is way more accurate.
 
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CrashOverride

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Having a HF close is nice I have a low profile jack, 6 ton stands, 2 ton stands, air gun, couple sets of sockets. It's like this got 5 kids that use stuff they loose stuff so a lot better of buying stuff from HF lol
I have never had a socket break from there but have a ton of sockets that broke from craftsman and ratchets. The drill bits a different story they suck!!
Yeah the drill bits seem like they are cast the way they break. I know they aren't, but they are worthless.
 
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Sure, 100% guaranteed (on some tools) is awesome; I've never ever ever broken a Snap-On or Mac tool from my box. Worth the price of admission?? IDK, personal decision. To me it is. Obviously to you it's not, but don't call me out because of it. As for my favorite tools, where they're made is kinda irrelevant as long as it's a quality item. And don't dare even try to tell me you can't feel and tell the difference between a Snap-On ratchet and a Pittsburgh ratchet from HF, you'll embarrass yourself if you do. And why are you in a S550 forum anyways? Mik and I had a nice conversation over a beer, don't ruin it.
I completely agree. When I was younger, I was attracted to the lifetime warranty. Now that I'm older, I'd rather have a tool that doesn't need the warranty. But, I'm kind of cheap, so I am caught in the middle and that's actually why I posted this because I think a lot of us like to find cheap stuff that is actually pretty good. I haven't actually broken a HF socket, but it might be because I tend to reach for my craftsman more often, and I break the ratchets all the time because I am guily of throwing a pipe over them for leverage. And the craftsman wratchets are way too lose for me. My buddy bought me a Link set of ratchets and they are outstanding. It's all I use now. But, that's because I use sockets and ratchets all the time.

My buddy also got me some Wera tools and they are the cat's meow as well.

But yeah, to me shopping at HF is kind of like a swap meet, you find some great stuff along with some real junk!
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