Harbor Fright
I understand the old adage of “don’t skimp on cheap tools” and “you get what you pay for.” As I set up my workshop for an RV-14 build I am looking for quality aircraft specific tools, from trusted brands and companies. I’ve been reading so many opinions on this and trying to be as informed as I can be before I click the purchase buttons.
But, in terms of basic shop setup, what would you look for on the cheaper side?
Things that you should have in the shop but it’s fine to save some money on…
Such as tool organizer bins, or small parts storage?
Toolboxes, creepers, air hoses, jack stands?
What should someone that’s setting up a shop be on the lookout for that’s okay to skimp on?
Stuff I wish I had bought better quality...
Drill press, grinder, disk/belt sander & band saw
Harbor Fright were part of my used tool kit and I can't bear throwing them out for new stuff. They work ok but higher quality would be better.
A forged vise is best but a Harbor Fright vise will work
Stuff I get from Harbor Fright and happy...
40 drawer bins. One bin each. Bolts, Screws, Nuts, Washers, Misc. They're all full.
Black Widow HVLP HTE spray gun. Love it. Get the adapter to use 3M PPS cups.
Their good Air/oil separator is fine
Air Fittings are fine but I use steel. Brass kept leaking
Hoses are fine but dry out and crack.
Mini regulator is ok for some stuff but it's not as good as an RTI. See below.
Other stuff they sell thats fine
Tools. I dont like more points than the fastener so I tend to buy six point sockets and wrenches whenever possible. HF doesn't sell them but their 12 point will hold for the tiny torque values on a plane.
2lb Dead blow hammer. Warranty for life. I destroyed four on my C-frame. Free replacements.
I don't care for their cabinets.
Jack stands and hydraulics are fine. I have several.
Not crazy about the cherry picker. It leaks down.
Don't care for their electrics. Marginal. I gave them to the kids. I have all Ryobi brushless 18V.
I do have a HF Dremel. It's marginal. It works.
Their angle grinder cut off disks are fine.
Test equipment isn't very accurate. DVM, Amp meter etc. I have higher end stuff.
Soldering iron isn't any good. I have a hybrid Ryobi. Works on 18V or 110V AC. Very nice.
No electronics crimpers. Use the best. DMC for D-subs. Wratchet style with dies for the other crimps.
Stuff you definately want the best...
I use a Hobby Air for spraying and a 3M Mask with #60926 filters for other chemical stuff.
CDI Torque wrenches. 1/4", 3/8" and maybe a screwdriver.
RTI 1/4" Mini Regulator for the spray gun and low pressure air equipment.
Knipex smooth jaw pliers
Milbar safety wire pliers
Other stuff, just ask. Someone here has probably tried it