Harbor Freight Tools that don't suck

[PILOON]

My sure way of positioning metal is 2 pairs of Vicegrips (sometimes 3) and a narrow strip(s) of of metal to hold at 90 deg.
Welding in close proximity of a magnet makes for weird effects as the magnet tends to pull the molten weld.

 

[IslandTractor]

My sure way of positioning metal is 2 pairs of Vicegrips (sometimes 3) and a narrow strip(s) of of metal to hold at 90 deg.
Welding in close proximity of a magnet makes for weird effects as the magnet tends to pull the molten weld.

The simple way around that is to use the magnets to set up the weld, then put in a few tack welds between the magnets, remove magnets and finish weld.

 

[dragoneggs]

The simple way around that is to use the magnets to set up the weld, then put in a few tack welds between the magnets, remove magnets and finish weld.

Bingo! That is what I do... I actually did witness the magnet mess with my bead. That was my excuse anyways... :laughing:

 

[ArTrvlr]

You have an ingenious way of cleaning out all of the metal fileings that get attached to them?

Blow 'em off with compressed air.

 

[sixdogs]

Remove the filings by holding a short strip of duct tape on your finger, adhesive out, then pressing the filings.

Bruce

Great idea and never thought of that.

I keep the retrieving magnet in a ziplock to keep it clean when I use it. That plus the TSA-style metal detector wand to first locate a lost object make a good combination.

But I don't see how a ziplock near welding would work, due to the heat.

To clean up nails after we burn pallets I put the magnet in a plastic bag as described above and when done just peel the bag off. It leaves me with no metal or scraps on the magnet.

 

[stuckmotor]

My sure way of positioning metal is 2 pairs of Vicegrips (sometimes 3) and a narrow strip(s) of of metal to hold at 90 deg.
Welding in close proximity of a magnet makes for weird effects as the magnet tends to pull the molten weld.

That's the way I do it with my homemade angles. I've had magnets turn loose too many times.

I've thought about trying the more expensive magnets with a switch. Does anyone know whether they hold any better?

 

[weldingisfun]

You have an ingenious way of cleaning out all of the metal fileings that get attached to them?

Use an old toothbrush to clean off the filings.

 

[Threepoint]

Understood but what these magnets are really designed for is to simply hold two pieces of steel at a 90 degree angle while welding. They really are not designed to hold weight but rather position. I think the main use is to have both pieces on a bench with one on edge and the magnet keeps the piece on edge from falling over and in the correct position. Very different than clamps.

Agree with Island on this. The four-piece set is great for small pieces of plate and bar stock, when the larger, stronger magnets would be in the way. Ribbed re-bar, even small pieces, is especially tough for the magnets. The ribs reduce purchase, and the asymmetry promotes rolling.

Hmm, I've never tried it, but I wonder how a 2" section of 1/2" steel angle between the magnet and the re-bar would work? :scratchchin: It would provide more support, but it may set up opposing magnetic forces that would defeat the whole idea.

 

[IslandTractor]

That's the way I do it with my homemade angles. I've had magnets turn loose too many times. I've thought about trying the more expensive magnets with a switch. Does anyone know whether they hold any better?

I've only used the switched magnet type once during a welding course. Worked great (much stronger magnet) but I was put off by the cost. If I welded for a living it would be a no brainer.

 

[FredH]

17 Ft. Type 1A Multi-Task Ladder Folding Ladder System

I don't have one , but My brother does . For outside , it is a typical step ladder , but inside is were it's true colors come to life . We have been doing a lot of work inside My Moms house , Fixing drywall , electrical , then finishing with painting . In the utility room , the hot water heater sits in the corner . On the right side of it sits the dryer , on the left side sits a large utility sink . How to fix drywall and paint the entire corner around / above hot water heater ?? Positioned one side of the ladder straight down , right up against hot water heater . Other side of ladder was then extended out and positioned at about a 22.5 degree angle onto the floor .
Was able to walk right up and used hot water heater as a tool holder , fixed drywall with new mud , sanded , then later painted . Although those type ladder's are a little heaver than a standard step ladder , their versatility makes them awesome tools . Similar in price to the Werner brand's at either Lowes or Home depot if not on sale . The Werner brand has been on sale at both those stores in the 22' model several times at the same price as H.F.'s 17' model .

Still a pretty awesome ladder .

Fred H.