WNYPCRepair 1,923 #1 Posted January 9, 2016 I bought one of those hand held band saws for Xmas. I have made about 20-30 cuts of 2" x 1/8" thick square tube. I noticed when I first started using it that there were a LOT of sparks at the brushes, almost looked like a torch or something. Sparkler, maybe, LOL. I also noticed it smelled like an animal had urinated in it. It smelled horrible when it was running, and it didn't smell like burning electronics. Yesterday, I finished cutting a piece, set it down and smoke started pouring out of the brush area for about 2 to 3 seconds. Pulled the trigger, did it again. Tried to get video, but for some reason I didn't get it. On about the fourth try, it finally died and wouldn't turn on any more, so I took it back and got another. Decided it was wise to buy the protection plan, which I never do. Then again, I usually don't buy anything with a motor or engine from HF unless I only plan to use it a couple times. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
KC9KAS 4,744 #2 Posted January 9, 2016 A very good friend of mine told me. "Electric motors run on smoke, and when the smoke comes out, they are shot"! 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
elcamino/wheelhorse 9,360 #3 Posted January 9, 2016 I had terrible with the bigger HF electric products. I quit buying them, if you want a portable band saw that will last buy a Milwaukee, I know they are high but I bought my 10 years use it all the time. Never had a problem. Lowes and Home Depot will give you a discount if you are retired military or disabled vet. Lowes even gives me the discount on sale items 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
WNYPCRepair 1,923 #4 Posted January 10, 2016 I got the HF one for just over $100. I still almost bought a Milwaukee, but it was almost 3 times as much. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
squonk 42,784 #5 Posted January 10, 2016 I just bought a mini HF oxy/acet torch set. Got the tanks exchanged at my local welding supply. They had the exact same kit for $200 more. Any way putting it together, the little whoobie-doobie knob to adjust the ox regulator had buggered tthreads. The thread was identical to 1/8 pipe but without the taper. I used a brass pipe elbow to chase the thread 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
elcamino/wheelhorse 9,360 #6 Posted January 10, 2016 I am not saying all H F stuff is bad , I have a lot of small tools that I have purchased. No sockets ( they are crap). Buy all my sanding paper , cut off wheels etc there, but I had a lot of bad luck with the power tools from HF so I look at yard sales and flea markets. When I was working I always purchased new tools even if I had to save up money for the purchase. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
AMC RULES 37,153 #7 Posted January 10, 2016 https://www.reddit.com/r/harborfreight/?count=26&before=t3_3ja438 http://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/harbor-freight-tools.html Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
WNYPCRepair 1,923 #8 Posted January 10, 2016 1 hour ago, elcamino/wheelhorse said: I am not saying all H F stuff is bad , I have a lot of small tools that I have purchased. No sockets ( they are crap). Buy all my sanding paper , cut off wheels etc there, but I had a lot of bad luck with the power tools from HF so I look at yard sales and flea markets. When I was working I always purchased new tools even if I had to save up money for the purchase. Yeah, normally if it is a tool I am going to use for work, or use a lot at home, I but elsewhere. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
