On 12 Aug 2018 22:23:55 +0100 (BST), Theo
wrote:


Does anyone actually buy stuff from Machine Mart?

snip

I have / do, typically when on special and generally only under
specific circumstances.

1) When the need is urgent and their prices sufficiently close to
other bricks-n-mortar stores to not make price an issue.

2) When the item is simple enough to not be likely to require any
warranty work or specific parts.

My first big purchase from them was a 6" steel cutting bandsaw and I
bought that in a bit of a rush when I built the trifold doors for the
garage / workshop. It was working well till the only real weakness on
it, the bearings failed so I just replaced them with some quality ones
and it's been fine ever since (20 years?).

The 10 tonne hydraulic floor standing press was similar. The needle
has fallen off the pressure gauge (well out of warranty by then) and
they want silly money for a replacement. When I getroundtuit I'm sure
I can find one on eBay.

The small parts cleaner worked well till the pump failed and again,
the replacement pump was as much as a new unit. An old electric fuel
pump works better.

The cast iron floor standing (bench grinder) stand was cheap enough
and there's nothing to go wrong. ;-)

Other than this it's generally just bits and consumables, when I need
stuff in a hurry, especially as there is now so much competition
online.

Cheers, T i m