Harbor Freight Workbench modifications

[@byronbuchanan3066]

I bought the new version of this bench today and put it together and have to say that I am very impressed for the money. I feel I got more than I paid for and I never say that. The bottom shelf is now solid wood like the top and can hold a lot of weight. It is true that dust can fall in the dog holes but I don't care.... I just blow out the drawers every few months with my air hose and clean. The table is very stable... which surprised me... its pretty heavy. I had the old version and it was wobbly... this one does not wobble. The vice is only good for small work but Im fine with that.... for the money, I consider it almost a freebie. The vise does have strong clamping pressure. I plan on putting a moxon vice on the opposite end for larger work. The drawers hold more weight than expected. The whole bench is hardwood... very hard and is easy to reinforce if need be. All in all a good little bench.

[@ShopRamblings]

I can't tell you how many comments I've gotten saying I could have just built a bench from scratch. That is true. But as you said for the price you can't beat these little benches. When I picked up the first one I was in a hurry and didn't want to take the time to design and build a bench. Over 2 years I was able to modify it several times to meet my needs. I could have built another bench but the first one worked so well I figured might as well have one that matches. Then I completely agree with you you can't find anything that's close to this bench for even twice the cost of this bench.

[@davidevans3429]

Great video. Straight and to the point. No fluff or chest thumping. Thank You.

[@newagainresurfacingn.q.ngu4218]

Sir you are the freakin man !!! The tools you have and do with it outshines all the snobby shiny sawstop guys .. no no , not all of them just the ones that have ''em and barely have any sawdust or scratches on them .. you've inspired me to get off my lazy ass off n get my $4k jet cab saw, and create more and first to mod the same HF workbench too .. you rock !!! Keep ''em coming I'm telling everyone about you and your humble tools at such precision results If you're in dfw texas I'd like to take you for burgers and beer

[@ShopRamblings]

Thank you for your comment. It means a lot to me. Expensive tools don't make a nicer product. It just makes it easier to make one. I have not made any videos of me building a finished product. I have been making videos in-between jobs of thing for the shop. My wife wants me to build some picture frames that holds plants this weekend. I will post a video Monday. Let me know what you think. My 3 most used tools are: 1. Tape measure. I measure everything. If attach two 3/4" boards together they might be 1-7/16". 2. Digital angle finder. Every time I change my blade angle. I never trust stops for tool setups. 3. Digital protractor. I am always checking for square. If everything is cut square and the right size it make assembly easy. I don't use it much anymore but a flush cut router bit can make any joint come out perfect.

[@LosingDrea]

I wish I had the tools and patience you have. That pocket hole tool WOW.

[@ShopRamblings]

It is really not that hard. It make perfect holes effortlessly. Building cabinets or boxes look like you spent a lot of time and effort when they are really quick and easy.

[@mark2talk2u]

Very smart clamping system when you glued the plywood to the underside.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@jasonpitre1249]

Might as well face it, you’re addicted to…work bench modifications! Nice work. Thank you for sharing.

[@ShopRamblings]

Love the reference, thanks for the comment.

[@tonya8276]

You did a great job on this modification. My husband and I both have one in our hobby rooms. He modified both tables to accommodate our craft. Replaced the cheap slides with slow close that allow the drawers to fully open and we added custom pulls from Hobby Lobby. We both also have added storage but that has been customized to each of our needs.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. Sounds like you did about the same as me. Slides for the drawers would be nice but would have cost more than the bench. Mine is in a shop and does need to be nice just functional. I have another one still in the box. I had thought I might build it different but for what I need I have not ce up with a better design.

[@pocketlint82]

That pocket hole machine is on another level of awesome. Also I will be getting one of those right angle bit adapters. Had no idea those existed. Just bought this bench and might be doing some of these mods to make it sturdier when I put it together

[@ShopRamblings]

I have the stuff to build another one for a friend. I just haven't had time. When I do I am going to do a build video.

[@niradonline4167]

@@ShopRamblings I definitely want to make one.

[@YerBrwnDogAteMyRabit]

It REALLY is!

[@geezerenduro2617]

As someone who knows nothing about carpentry I find it amazing to watch videos like this where people are so good at it. And the tools that I never knew existed... Can't help but thinking you were only a couple of pieces of wood away from a made from scratch bench :-). Pretty cool either way.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks, you are right. I could have made a better table from scratch but some times the hardest part is trying to decide what size to build a project. This made it where I could start and finish the project in one day.

[@tgrubsov]

Dude you rocked this build and gave me want I needed to pull the trigger and buy that bench and mod it myself. Good job balancing content and speed in telling your story. You are good at thiis. Keep going.

[@ShopRamblings]

I made a few more mods that didn't make it into the video. This table has worked so good I built a second one. I have a design in my head of how to make it where the two can easily be joined to make a 5x9 table when needed and separate when not.

[@larryriffett918]

Nive job just picked this work bench up today & was looking at some videos to upgrade & stiffen the thing up right out the gate. You have some good ideas especially stiffen up the top table with plywood to add some weight. I already purchased the rockler workbench casters for moving it around for mobility & being able to drop it on the ground for stability. Gonna add some extra drawers like you did. Overall nice bench for the money & a good foundation to build upon to make a decent garage woodworking workbench.

[@ShopRamblings]

I might one day show a video of the final build Probably not. Yes it is a great foundation. The boards going across really add a lot of stability. I spend a lot of time in my shop so why not make nice things for me. I faced the front and all the drawers with walnut. It really makes it look nice.

[@larryriffett918]

@@ShopRamblings sounds like it i love walnut "wood" love to see the finish product lol like I saidnim just getting ideas i knew I was going to stiffen up the build like you did. 👍😎

[@ShopRamblings]

@larryriffett918 I got several comments on "how much I spent" on a Harbor Freight bench. If people were complaining about a sheet of 1/2" and a quarter sheet of 3/4" plywood they will blow a gasket seeing I actually replaced it with Walnut...maybe I will do a short tomorrow of it.

[@johndelepine4856]

I was just looking at getting one of these tables, but didn't. If I had run across this video before I definitely would have. Great job and appreciated the video. Really liked the drawer cabinet.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. It was a good way to get a workbench without a lot of thinking. Then, over the next couple of years, I made several more modifications to make it work perfect for my shop.

[@tom_schroeder]

I like how you made the bench much more stable. Very nice video.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I believe the lower shelf made the biggest difference in making it stable along with the extra weight.

[@pacmanxm]

Great job with this! I can hardly tell this started as that harbor freight bench. You did a hell of a job brother

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I wasn't trying to make it look different. I just wanted functionality. It works great for me.

[@kevinpecorelli3020]

Great build. Im just getting into woodworking and setting up a shop and I think that tables perfect for what I’m going to need. Thanks for the info and guidance.

[@ShopRamblings]

I have 2. I added spacers so they can double as an outfeed tables for my table saw. My next mod will be a mount for a router sled.

[@woodpeckercraftsandbuilds]

Looks great brotha! I am considering purchasing this bench and you just convinced me by making it deluxe! Thanks for showing me what can be done with the starting frame. You the man!

[@ShopRamblings]

You should see it now. After using it for over a year I went back and fixed all the short comings.

[@boydmerriman]

Nice work! You almost spent as much, if not more, updating it than the bench itself!

[@ShopRamblings]

You are right but for me the way comes doesn't work for me. Now it is used every time I am in the shop.

[@ltaml7390]

awesome beautiful job. I'm going to use the original bench, as is, for an island in my kitchen. perfect size. I might just add a better finish on it. I love this video. Going to show it to my nephew for a lego storage bench....... you did a great job and a great idea. Thank you so much. Wish you lived in St Cloud, MN......

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks for the comments

[@samspencer1534]

I'm new to this stuff and have so many ideas. Watching this build helped answer so many questions in my head.🤙

[@ShopRamblings]

Glad to be able to help. Let me know if you have any questions.

[@andydepaule3296]

Clever. Think I'll go do it to my Harbor Freight workbench. The drawers that came with it are useless. Thanks for the video.

[@ShopRamblings]

For the cost of a sheet of plywood I have 4x the storage that is rock solid.

[@scottmoore5719]

Thanks for taking time to make this video. You have inspired me to modify my harbor freight table. And wow, like the other comment said , awesome pocket hole set up!!!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks for the feedback. I put out videos because I like helping others. I have more projects that I can get done. I hope to soon get some time to increase the video quality. I have the part to build a pocket hole machine. It has been on my to video list for a year. I hope to get to it soon.

[@TheMelvice]

This is a pretty solid little workbench. While once you figure out how it comes together, it is physically Easy to assemble kzbin.infoUgkxyFZUPFEey-PuqsPMxqaykBhgA1LWxFHh by yourself. But the diagrams explaining the steps are really pretty bad. I could not get the handle pins in all the way despite multiple attempts, so I just used a screw I had on hand for the 2nd handle. I could not get the first pin in further or pull it back out. You are supposed to hammer it in, but I had no leverage and the handle is plastic and I did not want to risk breaking it. I will get a lot of use out of the bench because of the convenient size and height. It does fold up nicely for storage. They even explain how to fold it so you don't get pinched...that is important!

[@ShopRamblings]

It is crazy what some of the work benches sell for. This is a great deal without any modifications.

[@devildog2345]

You did great. I've been thinking of doing it similar. I found your video when I searched for ideas. You earned my subscribe. GJ

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I use it almost everyday. It has worked great for me.

[@chrisp.76]

Great modifications. I have the same bench and need to make it shorter.

[@ShopRamblings]

It should be simple to make it shorter. That would be a good excuse to build some new drawers.😀

[@jacobburkett]

@ShopRamblings GREAT JOB on the build. I subscribed and looking forward to seeing any other builds you come up with

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@jjr6929]

Two thumbs up for this .....now I'll need one!

[@ShopRamblings]

I have two. One for each thumb.😁

[@christurner5473]

That sir came out incredible, nicely done sir

[@ShopRamblings]

Thank you.

[@christophermoore7244]

i just bought one and i am going to use alot of your ideas. thanks great video

[@ShopRamblings]

It has worked great for me so far.

[@lextheap1638]

The drawers are genius. Simple, strong

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@Woodworkjunkie]

Gonna follow this and turn it into a baking area!! And add tile on top!!Thanks!!!😎🤙

[@ShopRamblings]

Great idea!

[@rayaldridge2506]

Great video. Thanks for taking the time to share it. You mentioned that one of the flaws with the original bench was that the dog holds allowed sawdust to drop into the top drawers. When you added a sheet of plywood to reinforced the top you said you drilled the dog holds through the reinforced sheet. How did you solve the sawdust falling into the top drawer issue?

[@ShopRamblings]

I have a new Yukon workbench still in the box. Last night, I was modeling blueprints for it. After using these tables for a few years, there are a few things that could have been done better. I hope to have a new video up with a better, easier design, including a free download able blueprint, in a week or two. To answer your question, I cut a board that just fits above the top drawer on each side. I used pocket screws to secure it in place. I enclosed the back. I put a board to enclose the front, so any dust that goes into the holes can only fall out the back. I have a picture on my community page of my current one. It looks a little different.

[@rayaldridge2506]

@@ShopRamblings- Thank you for your reply. I have the same workbench and the same problem. I'm a fairly new woodworker and I wasn't sure how to fix it. I look forward to seeing your new video. Thanks again for sharing.

[@ShopRamblings]

If you want, you can email me, and I will send you the fusion 360 file of what I have. It is always nice to get other opinions. I work 12 1/2 hour shifts, so I don't have a lot of time to model until my days off. I am trying to make this one easier for people to build. Instead of dados in 3/4" plywood. I have this one with 1/2" plywood and straight cut blocks for the drawers. I am going to put microjig groves around the front and sides. I have considered connecting it to dust collection so you can sand on the table and it suck the dust down through the table. Any thoughts?

[@rayaldridge2506]

@@ShopRamblings - I sent you an email with my email address. Thanks.

[@vulpineking215]

Very nice mods! I was leaning against buying because of the 4 cheap drawers. Now... looks like I'm doing this. Thanks for the vid!

[@ShopRamblings]

I agree the drawers are not good. It is a good start to a work bench. This has worked out very good for me.

[@jhirn2957]

The drawer's aren't great, but I can't find enough wood plus a vice for $129 (sale price) to make anything remotely close.

[@eloscuro704]

I love that drawer design! Simple and easy to make, and your dados are your drawer slides. I ordered the Rockler slides for the original drawers based on another video, but I plan to use your design to make drawers for handplanes and such.

[@ShopRamblings]

8 set of slide were going to cost more than the table. I put slides on other drawers in my shop a few years ago. These work much better. Just be sure to wax them.

[@mauricelinton5867]

Lol I had no idea about those storage racks!!!! That is awesome!!!!

[@ShopRamblings]

They work great for small parts, especially when you get them on sale.

[@cliffart7398]

me either and I have the same workbench and now have a great way to improve it. a lot of wasted space in the current one and the drawers are not deep enough. Off to Harbor Freight to get the storage boxes and Home Depot to get some plywood this weekend. are there any plans for this with measurements?

[@ShopRamblings]

@cliffart7398 I just measured and cut as I went.

[@georgeferlazzo7936]

Hello Robert Thank you for the Great Video. I appreciate your thoroughness in the details. I've been looking at this work bench for a while now. My mind just wasn't sure this could handle the work I am looking to accomplish. Your upgrades will will strengthen the work bench. I look forward to seeing more from your channel. Again thank you

[@ShopRamblings]

For the same money I could have bought some wood and built a bench. This was nice that I did not have to think about what size to make it and speed up the process for me. If you just replace the bottom shelf it will make the bench a lot more stable.

[@georgeferlazzo7936]

@@ShopRamblings Hello again Robert Thank you for responding, and the information on the bottom shelf. What is the heaviest weight you have used the bench for? Again thank you

[@ShopRamblings]

@@georgeferlazzo7936 I don't stack a lot of weight on it regularly but would not think twice about putting 500lbs on it. I had several 80lb bags of cement sitting on it for a few weeks with no issues.

[@georgeferlazzo7936]

@@ShopRamblings Hello again Robert That's very impressive, I was looking at the bench at Harbor Freight, and wondering just how sturdy it is. You mentioned you beef up the bottom shelf. What size board did you use to get that kind of results? Again thank you

[@southernblueblood5402]

I have the same work bench, this gave me some great idea's, you just gained another subscriber. Now to watch your other videos for some more great ideas.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@jerseyjoe781]

hi great project very good instructions. just wondering what type of plywood did you use

[@ShopRamblings]

I use imported birch. I get it for around $30 a sheet. It works great for shop projects.

[@jerseyjoe781]

I wish i could get that price of $30 in NJ . not at Lowes and HD . where do you get your plywood??@@ShopRamblings

[@ShopRamblings]

@jerseyjoe781, the price of plywood at Home Depot and Lowes is approximately $80 per sheet. Imeca, a cabinet supply store located about 45 minutes away, is where I usually purchase most of my plywood. Additionally, I have another supplier called Hood Distribution. The imported birch plywood from Hood Distribution has a thinner veneer, but it offers good value for its price. I recommend exploring options from cabinet suppliers, as cabinet makers typically do not source their plywood from Home Depot.

[@toyotakurtis]

Thank you for showing the ways to improve on the work bench. You video was great.

[@ShopRamblings]

I have another one I plan on putting together . I have not found anything to improve so I will probably build it the same. I have been waiting to see how it functioned.

[@OregonPanoramas]

Great work. We can tell you have a lot of experince. Your solutions are great. I wish I could just but a bench like this but it would likely be $1,000 or more. I subscribed because I like your solutions and you realize that people like quick information. Many videos are too slow.

[@ShopRamblings]

I used a coupon and got the bench for $120. One sheet of 1/2" and one sheet of 3/4" plywood. Just over $200 for a bench that works great.

[@OregonPanoramas]

@@ShopRamblings Thank you. I need to find that coupon.

[@ShopRamblings]

It was the Windsor that was $150. They changed it to the Yukon and raised the price to $200..

[@jamesshaverswoodworks3697]

Great upgrade. You did a great job Sir

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@flyty2134]

I love it great job you are definitely an inspiration thanks for sharing God bless you and yours❤

[@ShopRamblings]

That is very kind of you to say.

[@cdanielh128]

This is really cool. I need a new bench and while I am not a woodworker I like simple woodworking projects. I keep hearing about this bench. I am going to use your design and thank you for sharing. I liked and subbed. PS: Your pocket hole jig is sweet! It might be the first thing I make on the new bench!

[@ShopRamblings]

I really need to get on making a video on the pocket hole machine.

[@ShopRamblings]

When I have time I want to modify both of mine to add in the shelf.

[@sfurgas]

Excellent video, I've been considering getting one of these benches, have some good ideas on it now. Thanks.

[@ShopRamblings]

With wood prices going up it is getting to be a better deal.

[@scaryfriend1]

Any feedback to what those casters are? Nice project - i just picked one up today and stumbled onto your video. But ideally want casters of some sort - looks like you modified the feed to hold them.

[@ShopRamblings]

These are the ones I have used on 3 benches. They have held up well. amzn.to/3BHLKHH

[@joeechegaray6506]

Really nice work, gonna have to pick up one of those and beef it up.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@craigmonteforte1478]

I’ve had a Couple of them ,for the money it is what you paid for IMO , there will be a good chance something may be broken,Missing ,or need to be modified in some manner

[@ShopRamblings]

I think they are a great starting point. I have just modified a third one. I hope to get the video up soon. I turned out great.

[@obie224]

damn great video. it had never occurred to me to make shop drawers like that - brilliant ! and that pocket hole driller... sweet. subscribed !!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I am trying to make a video on the pocket hole machine. I hope to have it up in a month or so.

[@eanorton72]

Next level WIN!! Super work

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I have built a new one with all the modifications I have done over the last year. I have over 12 hours of video. I am trying to get edited down to 20 minutes. I should have finished already. I hope to finish it soon.

[@Dunc2222]

Terrific modification, structurally and functionally. Really shows the possibilities when you use creativity and skill. I envy your confidence that comes from experience. Great job on the video production, too. I happen to be in the midst of a project that similarly uses the drawer bottoms for support into dados on the side of the cabinet. The idea came to me one day (to save money on drawer slides), and I since then I haven't seen many other videos that use it. I like the way you've done it; your drawer design is a little simpler than mine (which is for a furniture cabinet). I see you chose not to fit the drawer fronts between the cabinet sides (as most conventional design advice suggests); I suppose this is because you don't expect much stress on that glued joint? (I'm a beginner woodworker, so just learning what conventions I can and can't break.)

[@ShopRamblings]

When I am building furniture i build my drawer boxes in the traditional way. I have a video on the way I build my drawer boxes. That way when the drawer is open and you look from the side you just see one solid piece of wood. Then when you attach the front to the drawer box it covers the end of the two side pieces. With this build I was not going to put a drawer front on them so I wanted them to look nice while closed.

[@refinersforge1781]

Great video! Did you end up doing anything to solve the issue of the sawdust and and wood chips falling through the holes into he drawers?

[@ShopRamblings]

On mine I placed wood blocks above the drawers and slide a piece of 1/4 in plywood on top. My friend did it a better way. On top of the legs he put a 1/2 in piece of plywood all the way across. Then put some spacers before attaching top. This was to bring the top up level with his table saw. It also gave an inch and a half space. This works great for sliding squares ot other flat tools in and keeps all dust out of the drawers.y second table I filled the hole with epoxy and cut dovetails to use the micro jig system.

[@refinersforge1781]

@@ShopRamblings great! Thanks for the reply.

[@crossgrainwoodproductsltd9230]

Great job with the modification. I still think you could have made one for the same amount of money if you didn't use Baltic Birch. That is almost $100/ sheet where I live. I do wish you hadn't sped up some of the video, though. I had to rewatch it a couple of times to catch everything you said. May I ask what the dimensions are of your shop? I love it!

[@ShopRamblings]

I use import birch. I can't afford Baltic Birch. I pay around $30 a sheet for 3/4". The original front part of my" Shop" is a 12x24 shed. I built it like you would a house in this area with 2x4 studs but used osb painted white instead of sheet rock. I added 20' to the back, so it is now 12x44.

[@asyangmdphd]

You should add a tool well. That helped my bench a lot. Great video.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@jeremiahsanders1103]

God dang this guy knows what he’s doin!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@jerseyjoe781]

also, i forgot to ask in my previous comment, what size dado did you make for drawer slides? 3/4 " for 1/2" drawer bottom to facilitate drawer slide sliding without binding. Much appreciate your help with a newbie wood worker.

[@ShopRamblings]

It only needs about 1/16" of space. The more you put, the more the drawer will tilt down while opened. This is one of my older tables. I filmed building a newer one. I did it without dados but works about the same. Be sure to put wax on where they slide. It makes a huge difference.

[@jerseyjoe781]

Thanks for quick response

[@drderrp]

well done sir! would love to those kind of skills

[@ShopRamblings]

There was nothing I did that anyone else couldn't do. Even on shop furniture I try for perfection. That way when I mess up it is still good enough. The only difference really between a great wood worker and a decent wood worker is one know how to fix errors better than the other because they both make them.

[@StreaminFreedom]

Amazing creativity!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I have another one. I am deciding if I am going to do it the same or make any changes.

[@ethanholshouser5648]

This looks great. Thinking about doing something similar, but I'm a little concerned with gluing the plywood to the underside of the bench like that... The solid wood top will want to expand and contract with seasonal humidity changes while the plywood will not, which can create stress in the top and lead the issues like cupping or splitting. How is it holding up for you so far?

[@ShopRamblings]

First, I will say I am in Florida. Things are different here in other areas. I have had no issues. I am currently putting together a third one and have already attached the plywood to the top. I use the crap out of mine. I build on them. I stand on them. I have stacked way more weight than I should with no problems. A friend has one with the top the way it came. His has cracked. The top is only about 5/8" thick, and while the wood it hard, it is brittle. I feel the plywood helps strengthen and hold together the top.

[@ethanholshouser5648]

@@ShopRamblings thanks for the insight!

[@ShopRamblings]

👍

[@aldemirfawcett5697]

Great upgrade! 👍

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks! 👍

[@mrgunn2726]

Loved the video, was thinking of getting one of these tables, they way you modified it was great. However, you need an outfeed table, watching you rip and dado those large boards was scary. Speaking of scary, watching you work with the router was also scary, please get some push blocks, your hands were close to that bit, I would hate for you to get hurt. I only say these things b/c a guy I work with lost four fingers to a miter saw.

[@ShopRamblings]

Your are right about an out feed table. That is what I use these tables for. You can never be too safe. I have a couple of fingers that still don't work as good as they did before I had to put them back together. Here is a link to a video I will be releasing soon. I actually reshot the ending after getting your comment. Check out the last 30 seconds and let me know what you think. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppXFgWCqltmEiK8

[@edwilliamsen2516]

Nice Job. Straight forward common sense upgrade.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks 👍

[@OscarPerez-uq7zt]

Very nice great wood working

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks, I am thinking of getting the new Yukon table and seeing if it is any better.

[@OscarPerez-uq7zt]

Kind of difficult to beat wat I just saw but I would like to see it

[@hurley122964]

I have two of these benches I want to modify. Great ideas!

[@ShopRamblings]

I have one more to do. I have not come up with any better ideas so I may just make it the same as this one. Is there anything mod you are thinking of making?

[@wessunde2801]

Great job !! Good mods..👏 I have one of these benches that I want to repurpose as an outfeed/assembly table. I was thinking of modifying it similar to what you did, but wasn't sure exactly how.. I'll definitely use your method of slides for my H.F. organizers.. & i also like using drawer bottoms as the slides.. Like your trick using the table saw miter grooves for assembly 👍🏻 Except that it gets glue on the saw table, but it might be removed easily if the saw has a good waxed surface.

[@wessunde2801]

As for possible mods.. Maybe make the underside of the table, around the sides, flush with the bottom of the edges for clamping down workpieces easier... Also put a bracket system on the ends to keep small clamps & tools handy during assembly, etc... Sorry my reply was getting pretty long winded, imo, so I divided it into 2.. Again, great job👍🏻, & thanks for the extra insight ahead of time for those of us still thinking about this project.

[@ShopRamblings]

I currently am putting together a second table. I have epoxy'ed the dawg holes. I am going to route groves for the micro jig system were I will be able to clamp any place on the table. I have in my head a system were I am going to add a 2in board to each side but will be removable with an attachment to hook two tables together for when a bigger table is needed. This would also make for a clamping area when not in use.

[@ShopRamblings]

I try to keep my saw waxes as it has a cast iron top and will rust if I don't. I have a scraper that holds razor blades. It scrapes the glue off in seconds. I glue on top of my saw more than my table because it is easier to clean. If you notice at the end of the video I added spacers to the bottom of the legs to make the the right hieght for an out feed table. I also added drop down wheels to make it easy to move around.

[@jthomos21]

Nice work...just subscribed and turned on all notifications.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@jerseyjoe781]

when you added the bottom shelf, you screwed and glued it to the bottom of the leg cross beams instead of the top of the cross beams, which i thought would be stronger. did you choose this approach to get more overall heigh height for the drawers? Thanks.

[@ShopRamblings]

Yes, and it is plenty strong enough either way.

[@BostLabs]

Awesome video, Robert. I'm just hunting around for a woodworkers work bench and came across HF's bench. I like the mods you added to it. How are you liking it now?

[@ShopRamblings]

I just modded a second one almost the same. It works great for me. I want to do a mod where they can be connected together to make one large table when needed.

[@thegoodfight365]

Awesome upgrade 👍🏾

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@gregmize01]

Hi, great vid! How's the bench holding up?

[@ShopRamblings]

Great. Every so often I will sand down the top and apply some wax. I do a lot of glue UPS and don't always put down paper so I keep the top waxed good and glue will just chip right off.

[@gregmize01]

@@ShopRamblings awesome, thanks! SUBSCRIBED!

[@ShopRamblings]

@gregmize01 thanks for the sub

[@jetsettergeorge2675]

Thank you

[@ShopRamblings]

Your welcome

[@mariaprince3228]

Thank you big time

[@ShopRamblings]

You are very welcome.

[@niradonline4167]

Have you been pleased with the wen track saw??

[@ShopRamblings]

Yes, I got the Wen because I could afford it, and later, I could upgrade to the Makita or Festool and not have to buy a new track. After using it, I no longer plan to upgrade. It does everything I need.

[@beckirae100]

I stand corrected. I just went and looked at some with the drawers etc. LOL $845-$1700. Holly cow.

[@ShopRamblings]

For my shop and less than $200 it works perfect.

[@enterprise59]

I know this is old, but do those casters get in your way at all? Looking for ideas to move my bench around.

[@ShopRamblings]

I use the same casters on all three of my tables. They work great. They flip up so the table is stable when I don't need them. Kick them down and the tables roll just as easy today as when I installed them.

[@haugdaug1679]

Can you still use the dog holes? Or you chose not to drill them out to keep sawdust out of the drawers?

[@ShopRamblings]

Yes, I use my dogs. I modified it where the dust goes out the back. I have a new table still in the box. It is my next project. I plan to do a new build video with plans to include all the modifications I have done to my older tables the last few years. I hope to have it out in a couple of weeks.

[@devincoronado3025]

What attachment was that for your drill when you pre-drilled the leg support holes? I’ve never seen something like that before.

[@ShopRamblings]

I believe you are talking about the right angle bit holder. They are great to have around. Now is the time to get one. They are in black Friday deal at Home Depot. www.homedepot.com/p/DEWALT-MAXFIT-Steel-Screwdriving-Bit-Set-with-Right-Angle-Adapter-36-Piece-DWAMF36RASET/316524565

[@ClintsHobbiesDIY]

Great job hoss.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@jerseyjoe781]

just wondering, when you made your drawers, did you use 3/8", 1/2" or 3/4 plywood? thanks

[@ShopRamblings]

I used 1/2".

[@jerseyjoe781]

As always, thanks for your help​@@ShopRamblings

[@morrisonsusan]

Gee! I want one of those!

[@ShopRamblings]

They look much better now. I did a few more modifications. I just did a complete build. I am editing the video now. I hope to have it posted in the next few days.

[@ryananthony4840]

Good work!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@cjbfire95]

I can’t believe your wife even bought you something like that when you’re an expert builder from what I can tell. Looks like you have a whole woodworking shop. I’m trying to repair my bench with a hand saw😢😢😢😢

[@ShopRamblings]

Yes, I have more tools than I have room for. I also have an account at a wholesale hardwood dealer. The thing is, I had been rearranging my shop. I was taking out a 24' built-in workbench. I wanted to go to movable workbenches. The problem is that when I start to design something for myself, I want to add in all the features I can. I tend to try and maximize the size and try to figure in the size of material so I can use every inch. This was a great foundation. It locked me into a decent dimension. I was able to make a great workbench in one day without any planning. In this case, good that I can get done today is better than fantastic that I may never get around to. I have one of the new Yukon tables still in the box. I will be building a new workbench with it in January. This time I am going to try to make blueprints to share as I think you can make a fantastic workbench with a few modifications. Check out my community tab to see a picture of one of my HF benches. It might surprise you how nice they can be.

[@cjbfire95]

@@ShopRamblings you’re very gifted in woodworking! Thanks for sharing

[@carlos_tbg8]

Excellent!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thank

[@PDillz]

Wow wish I had access to a shop so I could learn how to play with these tools.

[@ShopRamblings]

Maker shops were becoming popular where you could get a membership and come use a shop full of tools. A friend was telling me about one he was in. They had all your basic tools plus cnc, lasers, lathes, and more for I think $30 month.

[@PDillz]

@@ShopRamblings oh that would be sweet. Even a little shop class for a date night with the misses would be kind of cool, build a bird house together or something. I'm just fascinated with woodworking but have zero background with it.

[@ShopRamblings]

@PDillz if you are in Central Florida you can come by my shop. I would be glad to have you. If you don't live close Google "make and take" + your area. Here is a local one but I am sure there are simular places around d the cou try. hammerandstaincfl.com/

[@PDillz]

@@ShopRamblings I'm up I. Eastern Washington. Wish I was in Florida this time of year.

[@Sanctified_Leather]

Absolutely awesome 👏

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@tim8767]

Loved this video.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@Schten]

What is that pocket hole machine you got? Have a video on that build?

[@ShopRamblings]

I built that pocket hole machine. I was going to make a build video. I just looked. I bought the stuff for the video in 2021. I really need to get that done. I am trying to get caught up on videos along. Sorry I haven't gotten it done yet.

[@MLZ1957]

Frigging awsome!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. They stopped selling this workbench but the Yukon is basically the same. They are just charging more.

[@JG2HTT]

What was the dimensions of the plywood you cut for the under table?

[@ShopRamblings]

I am sorry. That was 3 years ago. I don't remember the dimensions.

[@chuckspeer2163]

Great skills

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@carloscrockett8808]

That came out great !!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thank you.

[@dennismacwilliams196]

Came out good

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@somebodypeculiar]

You mention a sale price for the basic bench. How many dollars went into all the changes?

[@ShopRamblings]

It has been awhile so this I'd the best I can remember. The bench was $120. I think I used a little under two sheets of plywood, about $100. I already had the storage boxes, but I think they were about $6. The wheels were $35. So this one would be $250-$300. I just built another one. I tried to make it easier to build. No dados. It is made from the new Yukon bench. It looks much nicer. It came in $350-$400. There is no other bench as nicer for close to the price. I hope to have it edited and uploaded soon.

[@somebodypeculiar]

@@ShopRamblings Thanks, that's exactly what I was asking about.

[@dannmarks]

Love it

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@kentkoehler4460]

You did great

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@823Steve]

Fantastic!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@je9661]

Thanks for a good video

[@ShopRamblings]

I am glad you liked it.

[@kle2217]

Harbor Freight doesn't seem to sell their Windsor Design workbench anymore. They have the more expensive Yukon version for $200.

[@ShopRamblings]

I just took a look and you are right. It looks very similar. Maybe they corrected the problems with the Windsor.

[@kle2217]

@@ShopRamblings Yes, and are charging more for it.

[@ShopRamblings]

@@kle2217 Aug 15th it is going on sale for $159.. not as good as $119 that I paid for mine but it might be worth the extra. I have to pass by HF tomorrow. I might pick one up and see.

[@kle2217]

@@ShopRamblings Thanks for the info on the sale. I’ll look out for this sale when it comes.

[@smellycoyote]

Looks good!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@miamited69]

How thick are the legs? I want to add locking casters when I put mine together.

[@ShopRamblings]

I will try to remember to measure them for you next time I am in the shop. I think they are about 2in. These are the wheels I put on mine. DOZAWA Workbench Stepdown Caster, 600 Lbs Set of 4 Durable Heavy Duty Steel, All Steel Construction Urethane Wheels [New Version] www.amazon.com/dp/B082781T4S/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_874JZAFY7X310FCCJE31

[@oldmanwithaplan7982]

Where did you get the casters you showed at the end?

[@ShopRamblings]

I have 2 sets, two workbenches. They work great. I didn't use their screws and I think a measurement in the instructions was off but the product is heavy duty. amzn.to/3Tn6CIv

[@djmerlyn2]

Did you solve the issue of sawdust falling down the holes in to the drawers or is that still an issue?

[@ShopRamblings]

I did not want to plug the holes so the dogs would not work so I cut a piece of 1/4 plywood. I attached it to the bottom of the table top edge. I made it removeable. That leaves a space between it and bottom of the surface to collect stuff that falls through the dog holes. For me the space is not filling up that fast. If I have to pull out my drawer and clean it out every few years it will be much better than it getting into my drawers. Until I seen the comment I had forgotten I about it since nothing ever gets in my drawers.

[@Leisosa]

damn, great work

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks