I had an earlier thread asking about ideas for a good/inexpensive MIG/Arc welder...

NOW, I'm wondering what a good/inexpensive ELECTRIC die grinder is...? I'm thinking of using it mostly for cylinder head/manifold porting if that helps... Xmas is rolling around soon, have to get my list together

 

So, no one has a die grinder they like?...

 

i like snap-on, but it isn't cheap.

 

This is one of the best ones out there as a kit ...... I used to have this but lost it during a move .... I miss it now BAD !!!

But this is what you are looking for: http://www.mytoolstore.com/ir/ir301-k.html

 

get a matco i hate those snap-on redneck truck drivers. Just look at there motto, (if were late its becasue the clan meeting ran long)

 

"Just look at there motto, (if were late its becasue the clan meeting ran long)"

That's funny. I have used Matco but their wrachets/air tools kept wearing out too fast or breaking (allthough one of my most favorite small wrachets is a matco). And they don't put as much effort in tool grip comfort. The best screwdriver out there is a snap-on barnone. I can't find another that will allow me to twist the crap out of it with out making my hand sore or hurt. As for electronics, they outsource that to someone else.

If you plan on using the diegrinder alot get a good quality brand that will last a while (dewalt,milwaukee,Makita,etc). BUt if you are using it seldon get a crasftman, can't beat the cheap price and decent quality.


[Modified by Bontke, 11:21 AM 11/8/2002]

 

I have a Craftsman Professional that I like. I use it a lot for Fiberglass work, etc, and it works really good. I agree that SnapOn is the best tool out there, but sometimes just not worth the price. For example Snap On air saw ~$300, air saw from Harbor freight tools $50. With the same blades they both work just as good, and if the one from harbor freight breaks, I throw it away and buy another and still save $200. Only difference is cheap one is way louder, I just wear hearing protectors, but I use it often and never had any problems. I think I paid about $90 for my craftsman die grinder ( before I had my compressor) and I would recommend it to someone wanting an electric. As with most tools, the bits/blades are the weak link. I would rather use a cheaper tool with the best blade/bit than a snap on tool with a cheap/dull bit. Don't skimp on the bits you use and you will get good results with any tool.

 

cool (cheap) stuff http://www.harborfreight.com/

 

harbor freight is complete crap. though I do own a few things from there

I happened upon a Milwaukee for $139...it's factory refurbished and even has their normal warranty, so it's a steal! I have the link on my other computer and will post it if someone wants it?

I did also see a "Heavy-Duty" Dremel tool that is the flex shaft kind where the motor would be optimally attached to something else, I guess...any idea on how good this is? I like the "stylus" idea and it has a variable foot switch for a low of $179 that I saw on Amazon.

 

Thanks for the link, but I want an ELECTRIC one...I don't have an air compressor and don't anticipate getting one any time soon, though it would be nice

 

Milwaukee makes good stuff. THe dremel will have high RPM but low torque. A die grinder will have lower RPM and much higher torque.

 

Actually...I think this particular model Dremel goes up to 22,000rpm and the Milwaukee goes to 21,000rpm...but, you're right, the Milwaukee should have alot more torque, since it's much higher amperage...I think it's also rated at 1/5HP, FYI.

I'm kind of tempted to go for the Dremel, though, because it's a nice design (a remote stylus witha 36"(?) long flex shaft from the base...that would make it MUCH easier to work on things, though I want POWER!

 

go to your local Sears Parts and Service Center and get a recondtioned Craftsman Die Grinder. I work at one and I have bought a few for myself and friends. 1/4 inch heavy duty die grinder ran around 40 bucks with year warranty! They only have an on/off switch, but you can splice in a dimmer switch to adjust RPM's. My boss' husband drag races and these are the only die grinders he uses- 11 second all motor 350 in an early 80's Malibu.

 

I was considering buying dirt cheap and just replacing, but I'm planning on using this alot and it'd be nice to own something of good quality, for a change