In today’s global market and with the help of the internet, consumers are equipped with more knowledge and purchasing options than ever before. In the quest for the best power tools at the lowest prices many people from around the world have found that a weak American dollar and the highest amount of online price competition, the United States is a great place to buy tools and equipment. Even with a higher shipping cost and a few days longer wait for shipping it is often still much cheaper to purchase from the US. A big problem many international consumers face however is that most US companies will not ship outside the US or the company will only accept wire transfer payments and not foreign credit cards or paypal. From the retail side even if they take the order many companies even the largest ones are not familiar with proper international shipping practices to every country and many mistakes are made.

For years customers from around the world have used the company International Checkout to purchase a wide variety of products such as shoes, clothing, electronics, musical instruments, house ware and more from well known US based companies. The company has built a strong reputation over the years and received very favorable press, including being named on a list of the 50 Great Ideas of the 21st Century. Recently International Checkout has partnered with Ohio Power Tool as their one and only source for name brand Power Tools such as Milwaukee, Bosch, Ingersoll Rand Makita, Ridgid, Power Team and many more.

The ordering process couldn’t be easier. Simply find the item you would like to purchase at www.OhioPowerTool.com and click the “Add to Cart” button. Once you are in the shopping cart choose the “International Checkout” button at the top or bottom of the page. This will import your entire Ohio Power Tool shopping cart to International Checkout. They allow for a wide range of shipping options at the lowest rates available and will accept almost any form of payment known to man.              

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 01:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Power Team Hydraulic Pullers Hydra Grip-O-Matic line has some serious advantages over previous models and most of the competition. These hydraulic pullers have a built in ram and pump assembly which eliminate the need to attach a hose and use a separate pump, saving time and just making things that much easier. There are 4 models of the Grip-O-Matics including 6 Ton PH63C, 8 Ton PH83C, 15 Ton PH113C and 30 Ton PH303C. All the models feature 2 and 3 jaw settings and the pullers design actually tightens as it pulls to increase the holding force. The size and jaw spread increase with cylinder capacity.

The hydraulic pullers have a wide range of heavy duty applications on bearings, gears, couplings, axles, pulleys, wheels, break drums, shafts and anything else you might need to pull. These pullers are built for one man operation, although the PH303C 30 Ton Puller does weight about 70 lbs and is a pretty good sized piece of machine. The Hydra Grip-O-Matic Pullers currently serve industries such as railroads, shipyards, aircraft, steel mills, repair and maintenance along with many others.   

Ohio Power Tool stocks and supplies a wide range of Power Team hydraulic equipment including all shapes and sizes of cylinders, pumps, hoses, couplers and specialty tools. SPX Power Team is a true leader in hydraulic power equipment and typically our recommendation for most applications. If you need any help selecting the right hydraulic puller or putting together a full hydraulic system feel free to contact the experts at Ohio Power Tool.      

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 09:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

On June 11^th the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire CST/Berger from Stanley Works. The purchase price amounts to $205 Million for the tool division that had $80 million in sales for 2007 (excluding $10 million in certain European sales). The CST/Berger is primarily focused on laser leveling & measuring tools in the North American markets.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 12:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Have you ever tried to lift a railroad car or change a tire on a 200 ton earth mover? Most people luckily will never have to attempt such a task but for those that do, the job has gotten much easier thanks to a new line of Simplex jacks. Lifting heavy equipment such as this requires very special kind of tools. The jacks need to be portable, maneuverable, have a large stroke and even larger weight capacity. The Pow’r Riser II™ fills this tall order with several very customizable options.

The Power Riser comes in 4 basic models 60 ton, 100 ton, 150 ton and 200 ton. Each model is available in two heights 26” or 37” with the option of air-hydraulic or electric-hydraulic power sources (200 ton is air-hydraulic only). A 20’ remote control is also available on most air-hydraulic models. To reach even larger heights there are a series of Sup’r Stack Extenders and spacers which can add an additional 21” max height to any Simplex Pow’r Riser 2.

If you have questions about the Pow’r Riser 2 or any other Simplex Mechanical or Hydraulic Jacks feel free to call the pros at Ohio Power Tool and they will help you find the right tool for the job.  

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 08:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Milwaukee recently announced the introduction of their 2 new inspection cameras the 2301-21 and 2300-20. We had a chance recently to get our hands on the M-Spector 2301-21 and compare it with the Ridgid Seesnake Micro. Here are some of my comparisons.

The basic feel of the M-Spector is that’s actually a little larger than I previously though. The handle is thicker than the Seesnake Micro and the vertical design makes it much taller than the Micro. The thumb locations do make it much easier to change light settings and the new digital zoom feature is an advantage over the Micro. The screen sizes are the same but the Milwaukee has better resolution at 320x240 vs. 234x160 with the Micro. The case for the Milwaukee 2301-21 is the typical red hard plastic case Milwaukee makes for each product. The case is also very large because it houses the charger and battery as well. The Ridgid case is a much smaller cloth case with foam lining.

In terms of performance I felt both did a very similar job actually viewing items. I couldn’t see any difference in light strength. One problem I still have with both cameras is there is no way to change orientation of the camera so the image is constantly sideways or upside down. I did see on the Milwaukee M-Spector that it says it only allows a 9’ reach with extensions (which is only 2 extensions). The Ridgid allows up to 9 extensions for a total of 30’. The Milwaukee is digital so in theory it should be able to handle many more than 2 extensions without image loss but there is no way to test it until it comes out. I was also told the 3’ extensions are not interchangeable between Ridgid and Milwaukee. The Ridgid Seesnake, unlike the Milwaukee, does come with 3 attachments (mirror, magnet and hook) which are good for pulling wires, picking up items, etc. The final big advantage for the Milwaukee is that it works with existing 12 volt lithium ion system that includes the 2401-22 Micro Driver and many more tools to come.

Overall I think it’s a pretty even match. The Milwaukee 2301-21 is $20 more than the Seesnake but you can use the battery with your other Milwaukee tools. I think the deciding factor for me would be if I were also going to put a 2401-22 Micro Driver in the tool box than I am going with the Milwaukee. The 2300-20 (M-Spector that comes out in Aug-Sept) works off regular batteries like the Ridgid Micro and in that case I would stick with the Seesnake Micro.  

You can *PRE-ORDER* the Milwaukee 2301-21 M-Spector at Ohio Power Tool for $239.99. The pre-order means you will receive the product when we receive it. There is no promised date (because these are often delayed) but the credit card or paypal will not be fully processed until the product is ready to ship, so the pre-order is similar to a reservation.                     

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 12:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Recently Bosch Tools added several products to their Dust Extraction line which should make many peoples lives easier and healthier. Working with concrete specifically can create Crystalline Silica or Silica Dust. When this substance enters the lungs it can cause the lung disease Silicosis. Silicosis can be disabling or even fatal as it blocks the lungs from absorbing oxygen when inhaling. There is no cure at this time for Silicosis but there are many ways to prevent breathing in the Silica Dust in the first place. Simply keep it out of the air as much as possible and that is just what Bosch has made much easier and cheaper.

Bosch’s SG-Series (18SG-5E & 18SG-7) attachments are designed for concrete surfacing applications where aggressive dust removal is a must. Optimized for use with Bosch’s AirSweep vacuum system, the SG-Series attachments keep concrete dust out of the air and off of the work surface. A removable nose piece enables up-to-wall surfacing, while a replaceable brush ring maximizes the attachment’s lifespan in grueling environments. The SG-Series attachments are ideal for concrete restoration work and other surfacing applications.

Bosch’s DC-Series (18DC-5E & 18DC-6E) attachments are designed for efficient dust removal in masonry cutting applications and keep worksites dust-free without sacrificing performance. Featuring a large, stable footplate and fast single-screw depth adjustment, the DC-Series attachments allow for a full depth of cut and outstanding line-of-sight in precision concrete cutting applications. Like the SG-Series attachments, the DC-Series attachments are optimized for use with Bosch’s AirSweep system.

The new lines of grinder attachments feature vacuum outlets that are made to work with the Bosch Airsweep Vacuum 3931A. This system previously has worked amazingly well with the Bosch Tuckpointer Grinder 1775E and the 5” Concrete Surfacing Grinder 1773AK. These tools are both great to have on the job site but neither one is cheap or multipurpose. The new grinder attachments simply add function to your existing tools and for relatively little cost. If you don’t currently use Bosch Grinders they start at $75 at Ohio Power Tool.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 10:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Air tool systems have some significant advantages and disadvantages in comparison to electric tools. The main advantage of air tools is there is only 1 motor which is on the compressor where as with electric tools each tool has its own engine. What this means is the individual air tools last longer, are more durable, cost less, weigh less, have smaller size and can provide more torque. The disadvantage is they require a compressor to operate which can be very large in size and inconvenient to move around. Once you have decided to commit to buying an air compressor you need to pick the right one that will work for you.

There are many factors in selecting the right air compressor including horse power, tank size, pounds per square inch (PSI), cubic feet per minute (CFM), noise, portability and power source. In addition to the stats of the air compressor you also need to make sure you are buying a quality product. A good compressor should last you years and years so make sure you can get a quality machine from a known manufacturer and that it will be easy to find maintenance supplies and replacement parts.   

Horse Power is typically the first consideration when selecting a compressor but it is only part of the whole equation. In electric compressors it’s important to also look at voltage and amp ratings to see how much power the unit is truly able to produce. For instance, a 3 hp Ingersoll Rand compressor using 230 volts can probably out perform many import 5 hp compressors using standard 110 volt. In another case you are may be comparing two models of portable compressors each rated 2 hp 110 volt but if you look at the amp rating one may be 12 amp while the other is 15 amp.

Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) is also very important but again don’t over look the basics here. You only need enough PSI to power the tools you operate or plan to operate. If all your tools are 90 PSI a 110 or 135 PSI compressor is more than enough power and you don't need to purchase a 175 or 200 PSI compressor.

Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) perhaps is the most telling single stat for compressors as this measures how much air is flowing in a minute. CFM is used interchangeably with the terms Actual Cubic Feet per Minute (ACFM) or Inlet Cubic Feet per Minute (ICFM).  Check your tool owner's manual it should clearly provide your CPM for the tool. It is important to remember air pressure can change based on environmental variables such as temperature.

Tank Size is also an important factor however it is almost counter intuitive as a larger tank is actually more beneficial when using a smaller motor. The larger tank is used to store air so that the tool can actually use more air than the motor is able to produce for short periods. When a more powerful motor is used there is less need to store compressed air so the tank can actually be smaller in size. You would think the larger machines would need equally larger tank but that just is not the case.

Portability can be another big factor and often a disadvantage for air systems. The best environment for an air system is a shop or garage where there is room to permanently place a unit in a controlled environment. If you need a portable unit there are some options that do work well. A smaller electric unit such as the Ingersoll Rand DD2T2 works well with portable tools such as air nailers which typically have lower CFM. For a heavier user there are the air sled designs good for up to 14 CFM. For real power on the move the best solution is a truck mounted gas compressor which is capable of 25 CFM.

Hopefully this post will help you select the right air compressor for your needs. Ohio Power Tool carries a wide range of compressors from Ingersoll Rand and Chicago Pneumatic. Ohio Power Tool also offers free shipping on all compressors anywhere in the continental United States. If you have more specific questions about air compressors or air tools in general feel free to call the experts at 800-242-4424.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 02:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 10:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Recently Ohio Power Tool added the Rotozip tools to its growing number of product lines. The Rotozip tools are extremely well built tools and have great applications with drywall, ceramic tile and many other building materials. The DR1 (or DR01-1100) is one of the most popular models available and currently sells for $73.

For a limited time you can purchase the Bosch Screw Gun SG45M and with it you can also get a Rotozip DR1 for $0.01. This is not a mail in rebate. These items are in-stock and ready to ship out today. With Father’s day a week away you might want to take advantage of this deal and give the Rotozip as a gift and keep the Bosch SG45M. Both of these tools are perfect for any handyman or craftsman.

If you have any questions about this limited time promotion please contact Ohio Power Tool at 800-242-4424 and they will be happy to help you find the right tool for the job.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 02:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

When it comes to plumbing & utility locating Ridgid has to be considered the leader in the industry. Ridgid has 4 different locators depending on the specific applications. Two models are designed specifically for plumbing applications and the other two for utility applications however several models serve double duty.

Ridgid NaviTrack Scout ($1,284) – The basic Ridgid Plumbing locator is designed specifically for plumbers to find sondes and Seesnake camera heads. This model is not intended for those looking to locate plumbing or utility lines.

Ridgid NaviTrack 2 ($2,217) – This model is ideal for plumbers. It locates sondes and Seesnakes as well is also excellent at locating energized lines. The NaviTrack is very easy to learn and use thanks to the simplified display and options.

Ridgid SeekTech SR-20 ($2,217) – This is the most common utility line locator. Similar in size to the NaviTrack 2 this unit offers some advantages when locating utility lines. This unit will also locate sondes and camera heads as a secondary feature.

Ridgid SeekTech SR-60 ($2,794) – The most advanced locator Ridgid has in the lineup. This unit is closely related to the SR-20 but has a few advances features such as the ability to trace two lines at once on the display. If you’ve ever run into a situation where you hade multiple lines overlapping you will certainly appreciate this feature.

Of course Ridgid also offers several options for 5 & 10 watt transmitters, signal clamps and sondes. Red models are intended to work with plumbing locators and yellow with the utility locators. The Ridgid locators will actually work with any Ridgid transmitters and even other brands of sewer cameras and equipment; the coordinated colors are just for show.

Above is great video of the SR-20 locator which really gives you a good idea how easy these units are to use. If you have never used one of these locators I would recommend calling Ohio Power Tool at 800-242-4424 and talking to one of the professional there before making any purchases.  

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 09:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

 Irwin Industrial Tool is holding the Ultimate Tradesman Competition again for 2008. This is a skill competition which measures your speed and accuracy for measuring, marking and drilling. Irwin is well known for their high quality hand tools and power tool accessories so this competition is a great way to showcases several of their products. The competition is easy to enter, simply attend one of the upcoming events (View Schedules Here) and compete. For complete information, to see standing, see a video of the time trial, information on prizes and more; visit www.irwinchallenge.com.

Prizes include Cash, Irwin & Dickies clothing, Irwin Tools, race tickets & VIP packages, Ultimate Irwin garage, Roush Ford F150 and a chance to win $1.26 million. The top 20 regional winners get to attend the semi finals at the Texas Motor Speedway. The top 4 finalist will then attend the Phoenix International Raceway and compete for the Grand Prize and a chance to win $1.26 million. For more information on Jamie McMurray, Irwin Racing and the Number 26 Car you can visit www.irwinracing.com.

Ohio Power Tool is proud to offer a wide variety of Irwin Tools including their locking tool Vise-Grips, Marathon saw blades, Strait-Line chalk reels, tap & die sets and much more. For more information on Irwin Industrial Tools call 800-242-4424.