I see it in the flyer for $200, so I was kind of thinking of picking one up if they are worth having in the shop of a total hack/hobbyist...

I like the idea of having a belt sander for flattening, and the disc sander for bevelling edges for welding tube sections together, etc.

Any thoughts and suggestions would be appreciated!

 

I have had one for a couple of years and it works ok. I usually use it on mild steel, stainless, and aluminum thin wall tubing. The advertised belt speed is ~1300 fpm so its not great on heavy material removal. The sheet metal stand is kinda flimsy, the casting is kinda rough, and the hardware is cheap...but for $160 w/ a 20% off coupon im not complaining.

You can also find a 6X48 sander at ENCO
http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INPDFF?P...MITEM=163-4900
The quality on this one is better overall. I think the ENCO sander is made in Taiwan vs the Chinese HF unit.

 

I just picked one up about 3months ago... So far so good

 

Good thing about harbor freight is when the equipment goes out on u u don't have to feel bad or save up for new **** since it was cheap and u prolly got ur worth out of it before it broke...

Just my .o2

 

U can also get like a 3yr warranty for it and they will replace it w no questions asked