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The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... The problem with HF is that some of their stuff is decent, and some of it is horrid. But you never know which is which, till you buy it and try it.
So what if we made a thread where we posted our HF purchases with a PASS or FAIL grade? After awhile we could check this thread and see what's what. A couple things to keep in mind: 1) If you have to fix it before it works, it's an automatic FAIL. 2) This thread is for identifying quality HF tools, and for warning fellow tool-heads away from low quality HF tools. It's NOT a thread for rejoicing about low cost. 3) Don't review tools until you've used them awhile. Posting self-congratulatory praise immediately after your purchase is not helpful. Use the tool awhile, then post. 4) Please post a product number or photo if possible. Use the blue "Search This Thread" button above to find what you're looking for. Another idea for searching this thread: Quote:
Thread started: 12/27/2008 |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... I'll start.
Paint Gun Cleaning Set (contains mostly small bristle brushes): FAIL. The bristles fall off when you are cleaning the gun and lodge inside your paint gun, making an even bigger mess which requires tweezers and patience. On second thought, DOUBLE FAIL. http://www.harborfreight.com/media/c...image_4260.jpg Buffing Wheels: somewhere between PASS & FAIL. They throw off a lot more threads than 'real' buffing wheels, take longer to break in, and seem to be more off-center, too. But they work once they are broken in. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...99/39406-t.gif Microfiber towels, major PASS...great for cleaning before painting. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...99/97502-t.gif Castors with Red Wheels: PASS, they work OK so far, no complaints. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...99/97309-t.gif Metal Socket Rails: FAIL, very hard to take sockets on and off. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...99/01147-t.gif Pipe Clamps (red): FAIL, they don't get very tight, and they twist more than 'real' (Jorgensen) pipe clamps. Purchased as disposable clamps for outdoor use, but not even good enough for that. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...99/37056-t.gif Dial Gauge on Magnetic Base: marginal PASS, are the same as sold by Lee Valley/Veritas. Obviously no competition for Starrett, but a temporary solution. The fine adjust is rougher than I'd hope. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...99/05645-t.gif Dial Calipers (stainless steel): Currently FAIL (2011) but older models PASS (2008). The 2008 calipers were a decent pair. Picked up a second pair in 2011, FAIL because they have dramatically cheapened the calipers. You can spot the new cheapened version by a black plastic thumb ramp, a two-step depth rod, no carriage cushion on the backside, and a horrible gritty feel, compared to the 2008 model. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...99/05658-t.gif Orange Dead Blow Hammers: PASS, held up for longer than I expected. http://www.harborfreight.com/media/c.../image_914.jpg Plastic Storage Boxes/Containers: FAIL, the catches are way more difficult to work than other plastic storage boxes. I had to modify the catches with a Dremel to get them working appropriately. http://www.harborfreight.com/media/c...image_2966.jpg Parallels: PASS. No complaints. http://www.harborfreight.com/media/c...image_2172.jpg |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Fail!! Bawahahahahahahahaha!! :lol_hitti :lol_hitti :lol_hitti
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Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Quote:
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Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 2 Attachment(s)
Ok ... I bought two items from HF recently and they both PASS ..
First item was a floor jack saddle pad and the second item was a 3 lb neon orange dead blow hammer ... |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... digital vernier caliper for $15: PASS
Can we get a sticky on this thread? I think we need one of these threads for northern tool also...! |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... I didn't know they sold urethane jack pads. Maybe I can stomach going in there and pick one up for my jack. :bounce:
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Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... I like the idea of this thread as well. I'm planning a trip soon and would like to make a list. So far, urethane jack pad and dead blow.
My contribution is the right angle die grinder: http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...3099/93088.gif PASS- I use this ALOT and it works great. |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 1/2 inch drive impact sockets: Pass
12 ton Jack Stands: Pass Full Polished combo end wrenches: Pass so far Grinders: Fail Ratchet Straps:Fail |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 2 Ton cherry picker with foldable legs: Pass
Engine leveler for above: Fail 3 ton and 6 Ton jack stands: Pass US General 44" roll cab: Pass Wooden handled hammers: Fail Nitrile Gloves (dark blue 50/box): Pass ~Steve |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...7299/47257.gif
6" Digital Caliper - PASS http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...7599/97572.gif 1/2" Crown Air Stapler - PASS (although it lacks a safety, still value at $20) http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...6399/96349.GIF MOTORCYCLE WHEEL CHOCK - PASS http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...1199/41169.gif BUTANE PENCIL TORCH - PASS / FAIL Was great while it lasted, but didn't even get a year of use out of it. Cheap enough though. |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 1 Attachment(s)
The HF digital caliper sure looks like the Mitutoyo caliper ...
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Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 1 Attachment(s)
I think the Drill Master unibits PASS. Some members made some positive comments about them. They always seem to be on sale too
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=91616 |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 1 Attachment(s)
I would give the 1/4 rotohead ratchet a PASS. It's been working fine so far.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=96781 |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 1/2 inch impact socket: Pass
1/2 and 3/8 impact extensions: Pass 1/2 25" breaker bar: Pass 4 piece professional adjustable wrenches: Pass Midget hammer: Pass 2 pieces rubber strap wrench set: Pass 2 pieces "talon" wrench set: Pass 3 pieces hex drill extension: Pass 1/2, 3/8, 1/4 tumb ratchets: Pass 4 pieces socket adapters: Pass 45 pieces tap and die: Pass OBD II code reader: Pass Inline spark checker: Pass 4 piece nomarring scrapper set: Pass magnetic tray: Pass AC manifold gauge set: Pass Funnels: Pass Disc brake tool set: Pass Coil spring compressor: Almost pass Sandpaper (their lowest quality version): Fail And too many others to list |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Digital caliper: Pass
Boxes of chip brushes and foam brushes: Pass Step drill bits: Pass Blue tarp: Pass 1" rotary hammer a friend bought: Pass Rubber mallet: Pass 15" adjustable wrench: Pass but I only use it to fix toilets and urinals...i.e. not much torque. Welding pliers: Pass http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=93062 Swivel Pad pliers: Pass http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=37006 Sandpaper: FAIL..sanding with a piece of toast would be better. 1 ton chain hoist: Pass. My buddy uses his on his farm and no problems. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...Itemnumber=996 Magnetic parts bowl: Pass Carpenter pencil: Pass Coach |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... HF flare nut wrench set - Fail. Rounded off the flare nuts like crazy. If your flare nuts are pristine, they may do the job, but if they're a bit crusty forget about it. Craftsman replacement worked perfectly.
1/2 in drive impact socket set - pass |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... disc brake pad piston compressor - PASS
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=34304 |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Large size, black handle, telescoping magnetic pickup tool: Passes nicely
Small pocket size (orange in color) telescoping magnetic pickup tool: Fail, flimsy, bent easily and magnet falls out Black plastic handle (SO look alikes) heavy duty type screwdrivers on sale for $4.49 for a set of 8: Pass w/ no problems so far and I actually like using them Metric Stubby combination wrenches: Pass. They aren't comparable to my Williams set of SAE stubbies, but they are a nice little set of stubbies. Round tractor utility lights: Pass, all though I thought they were floods and they ended up being a spotlight type style. |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... disc brake pad tool FAIL X2
brass hammer PASS used for years at 5.99 good deal now cost 25.00 tap and die set PASS so havent used too many times ball pein hammer PASS came loose after much use repaired good as new stubby metric wrenches PASS dont use alot but come in handy and didnt cost 150.00 automotive boost box FAIL biggest piece of shit i ever bought dont think it would start a lawnmower drill bits PASS barely but price was right rubber shot filled hammer PASS use the hell out of it pliers PASS but only good for at home not at work xx large pliers PASS the only pair i use at work to remove stubborn oil filters has paid for itself many times 3/8 drive impact sockets PASS have broken a few and tossed away but they lasted for yrs and if i lose one ...oh well ....do these have a warrenty? |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Quote:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rate_h...guid=254625666 I prefer a thread like this though. The Yahoo group formats are a lot more of a PITA to use compare to these vBulletin forums. You guys might want to check it out though.... Then there is this thread that has been running on pirate4x4.com forever: http://pirate4x4.com/forum/showthrea...harbor+freight I'm surprised that I beat Nissan Crawler to this one :lol: |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Metal socket rails with clips: PASS
Brad Nailer, the purple one: PASS Angle grinder: Pass - cheap & lightweight, but will break down Western Safety work gloves: PASS marginably, OK for general work Dust Mask, get the doctor style: Pass |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Quote:
I think this was the original HF good tools thread... http://pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=434877 and the do not buy... http://pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=552514 |
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Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Quote:
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...2399/92360.gif Fail, fills tires with air, but gauge is about 20psi off Chrome 3/8 12pt sockets: Pass, i was actually really impressed with the quality. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...1699/01654.gif Can't beat the price, and they actually hold up pretty well. |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Ball joint - U-joint press PASS ( mines been used and abused )
3pc hose gripper pliers PASS Long shaft (orange) Elec die grinder PASS So good I bought 2 Inline spark checker PASS (great for small engines) Pocket type blow gun PASS Retaining Ring Pliers FAIL (these things plain suck) Orange dead blow hammer PASS Black dead blow hammer FAIL ( breaks off in chunks ) HD cable cutters (orange handle) PASS Brake cailper kit PASS (so far) Extra deep 5/8" plug socket PASS fit and finish on these are really good Bungee Cords in container FAIL ( only good for about 3 uses then stretch out) 4pc 3 jaw pullers PASS Forgot a couple of things 3 pc steps drills PASS Pry Bars PASS (if your not tring to move or lift an engine) |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 3/8" drive central pneumatic impact wrench - pass (and i've used the crap out of it) only 75ft lbs though
BUT! i bought a 1/2" drive that is supposed to put out 250ft lbs and it was a FAIL! bought one and returned it for another and it was the same way! the 3/8" drive will loosen things that the 1/2" wont! soon to have a review on a air ratchet and die grinder -Andrew |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Forgot one
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...5499/95403.gif Was really suprised by the quality, drawers can handle quite a bit of weight and made out of a pretty thick gauge steel. Plus i like the rhino type liner all over the box. |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... One box of wood screws: Pass........LOL
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Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...5299/95214.gif
PASS: these or the black ones that can be had for $1.99 a pack sometimes... As long as you dont overwork them (prying too far, use when extremely cold) they work just as good as the ones you can get from bojo that cost 5 times as much... and if you break one (like I did when I tried using one one extremely cold night) you are only out pocket change. I ended up filling down the point where it cracked and now can use it again. Bojo makes a couple different hardnesses for these, so if interior panel removal is a normal thing for you, you may want to pick up a couple sets from there also. can never have too many. kevin |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Quote:
But maybe you used it everyday or something. I would only use it as a novelty. |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...3099/93088.gif
Quote:
A friend owns an older one (I don't know the brand) where the angle portion is cast as a solid piece. I wish you could still get them like that. I've used high strength threadlocker on mine. |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... I'm usually pretty easy on my tools but a few have been used beyond their usage specs like two guys pushing on the breaker bar to undo the axle nut on a '97 Accord.
Goodyear air compressor hose: PASS Impact socket set: PASS Impact gun both 1/2" and 3/8": PASS Alumimum jack: PASS Welding helmet: PASS Welding cart: PASS Transmission jack (scissor kind): PASS Breaker bars: PASS File set: PASS Angle grinder: PASS 5lb sledge: PASS Pry bar set: FAIL (bend like noodles) Universal joint socket adapters: FAIL (pins popped out) |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... With HF offering about 3 versions of everything. We need to mention model numbers and when purchased.
The when purchased is important since there may be a hidden change of manufacturer of a key part that changes the quality. They did this with some paint guns from fair to skip it. |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Diamond core drill bits-Pass I was really skeptical about buying two sets of two different sizes for about $5 each on sale. I thought they would each drill a couple of holes and be trash, not so, I've used one size to drill 30 plus holes in glass building block and it's still working like new. Can't beat them for the price.
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Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Aviation Snips....Fail Miserably
orange handle Pry Bars..... so so, dont hold up to much 1/2 Deep Impact Sockets....Pass, had for about 10 years and have taken thousands of lugnuts off 5 pc wood handle ball peins....pass spinning deburr tool with screwdriver handle....fail, never worked, handle was locked up and wont spin freely, took bit out and use it in drill stepped drill bits...pass, work nicely 1/2 breaker bar....Pass, very nice piece, very strong and has a allen head bolt instead of a press pin, one of my better buys thats all I can think of right now |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... Harbor Freight shopping carts, the ones you use to carry everything to the check-out: FAIL!
Had one collapse under the weight of a few tools, my comment to the store worker that "maybe you shouldn't source your shopping carts where you get the rest of your crap" raised a smile.. :) |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... HF reciprocating saw-PASS. !0 yrs old,can't kill it.
HF portable band saw-FAIL. Burned up after 2 yrs of limited use 3/4 impact sockets-PASS 1/2 impact sockets-PASS |
Re: The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread... 2 Attachment(s)
Harbor Freight utility cart, seems identical to the rubbermaid version, PASS.
CFL shop light, PASS Quality is "usually" Pittsburgh Pro, Pittsburgh, something else. |
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