OT Hydraulic Press

[Scott Eakers]

I am considering buying one of those cheap hydraulic presses ($129.99) are they reliable or should I spend more. I am only gonna use it for old tractor work.

 

[CJ in Michigan]

I got one from HF when I was quoted $300 a side for wheel bearings on our Honda. I've used it about 10 times- pretty simple device. I am in the process of making a cider press using it as the motive force. No complaints here.

 

[jonallgrow]

i have a cheap one too and for basic 8N use that you will come across it works perfect. yes, it is cheap and not shop quality but, it does the job and keeps me able to do more jobs at home...
We have " Princess Auto" in canada which sells cheaper shop tools from China but its all the average guy needs to get the job done..
good luck my friend

 

[Paul in MN]

They are really easy to make, if you have some channel iron and angle iron. You can use almost any hydraulic jack. Years ago, I made my own, but I was able to scavenge a used hand hydraulic pump, ram, and pressure gauge. A little welding makes it quicker to build as compared to drilling and bolting. I built mine as a floor mounted H frame, but never have used any of the structure below about the 4 ft level. My table rails are adjustable in height, but I seldom use that feature. Having the "table rails" (6" Channel iron) about 5 inches apart has worked quite well. And I didn't build it with any opening in the side verticals, but have since cut oval shape holes about 2.5" wide in both sides to allow longer pieces to be passed through (for straightening shafts and radius rods).

I only use it a few times a year, but it sure is handy when needed. With my pressure gauge, I find that I seldom exceed 10 ton, although it will do 20 tons.

HTH

Paul in MN

 

[old]

If and when you come to see me I'll show you my shop. I have a cheap 12 ton harbor fright one and for the most part it fits the bill just fine. I also have a 12 ton pipe bender which I use a lot and a lot of other tools. Some I do not use much but would be lost with out them some times

 

[dlplost]

We have the 12 ton HF, have had it for about 5 years now, works great, have had no problems at all with it.

 

[Anonymous-0]

Ive used a 12 ton for many years.I would rather have a 20 ton.The 12 ton is built too light for some jobs.