I am looking to get one of those 3-n-1 brake/shear/roller setups. For what I do I don't need to spend the money on three separate peices of equipment (although I would if I had the funds). So I am wondering which ones people have and if they are happy with them. I have looked at Eastwood, Woodward Fab, Clarke (Tractor Supply), and Baileigh. I want one that can handle at least 18 guage. So far the only one advertised to do so in the 400 dollar range is the Clarke unit form Tractor Supply. The units from Baileigh all say 20 guage except for the really nice one I can't afford. Eastwood and Woodward Fab also say 20 guage. So does anybody have any of these? Can they handle some smaller 18 guage projects even though they say 20? Thanks in advance for any input.
I think this was discussed a couple of weeks ago....and it was agreed that you get what you pay for. A lot of guys said the frames/brackets break if you try to do any real work with them...
Save your money, the shear ain't worth a crap 20-22 ga is about the limit and the slip roller is just that, it slips. won't get a piece tin around straight for nothing.
A shop I visited a few years ago unwrapped a new 3 in one from harbor freight and broke the frame of it in half on its first use. I'm not impressed with the light duty ones and you definatly get what you pay for.
they pretty much suck for any real fab work. but like was said it's been discussed to death. One of the first hits from the search. http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=423425
I have the large one from Harbor Freight, Was $1100. Works great, The shear and brake as well as the roller works fine. I use the shear more than anything else. A lot of cash to pay out but saves a lot of time and trouble, W V
A friend of mine is a professional restorer who specializes in wood cars, tops and trim. He uses one of these units to fabricate wood veneer panels for Chrysler Town & Countrys. I do not know the brand, but he buys most stuff at a liquidator where they sell cheap imported tools. As soon as he gets one, he removes all of the fasteners and replaces them with USA made fasteners. He says that he then never has problems. Buyt I can't say what gauges of metal he works with in making those metal panels that fit within the wood framing on the body sides.
With all the school and shop closings I'd wait it out as long as you can and hope for a decent auction. You might try some used industrial equipment suppliers as well. Nobody's buying much these days and a deal is just an offer away. All that super duty Pexto stuff from high schools sells for pretty cheap because it's old but we all know that means it's good. Shop around and be ready to jump. I have 4 pieces of old high school stuff in my shop, a foot shear, slip roller, short bead roller and a break. We got it all for $500. Shop around, you'll be glad you did.
The Jalopy Journal
