What a Wonderful Reel!
Written: Sep 08 '07
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Well built, innovative clutch to reel in hose.
Cons: Price will discourage tightwads, but you get what you pay for.
The Bottom Line: If you have to buy, buy quality.
Rapid Reel hose reels are quality.
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| gardenerbob's Full Review: Rapidreel& Hose Reel Cart (Gh164 Ct) |
Rather than repeat what lllopez has written on the Rapid Reel Hose Cart, I merely wish to add some comments on this product as I have been using Rapid Reel for many years.
As a professional gardener (hence my moniker), I have a deep appreciation for well built hose reels. Some years, I have to be the irrigation system for my customers-many of whom don't have a clue as to how to water properly(Trust me, it is an art not easily learned.) Hence, my need for a good, functional hose reel to make my watering duties as smooth as possible.
Rapid Reel hose reels have undergone a lot of changes in the past ten years. They were originally steel construction, but are now mostly aluminum and are much lighter in weight. They now have a clutch system which makes reeling in all that heavy hose much smoother. I know of no other manufacturer with such a device. In fact, I didn't even know it existed until this spring when I put together a new reel for one of my customers; when I started to reel in the hose, I was shocked at how much easier it has become.
Now for a few negative features...
As I have mentioned, the new reels are mostly aluminum and have less weight. Though aluminum is corrosion resistant, the lightweight nature tends to allow the hose cart to tip, especially if you have a lot of heavy hose to reel in. I find it best to have the hose collected near the reel as opposed to trying to pull it in from a long distance.
Second, the semi-pneumatic wheels have an annoying tendency to deflate over time, requiring a trip to the air hose or a portable compressor.
On the plus side...
The semi-pneumatic wheels allow for smooth rolling on all surfaces- lawn and hardscape.
All parts of the reel can be replaced, should they break.
Rapid reel has a wonderful customer service phone line. Just tell them what you need, and they'll ship it out 1-2-3.
My original Rapid Reel hose reels (steel)are still functioning perfectly after 10+ years of service. They stay outside in the winter(drained, of course). They have some rust, as well, but are still in good shape. How many other hose reels can claim that longevity.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
gardenerbob
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Member: Bob
Location: Northeast US
Reviews written: 8
Trusted by: 1 member
About Me:
Gardener for hire, so to speak.
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