Union machinist box restore

[Bamacruiser98]

Hello all, I did a partial restore on this Union box that was all but destroyed when I found it, almost to the point that I didn’t bother but I can usually put a shine on a nightmare. I didn’t go all the way with it bc I was planning on using it like my other daily tools then I found another one, that won’t ever happen again so now I’m going to go ahead and do a full restore on this one bc it’ll be upstairs with the nicer stuff. I’ve read over some of the restore stories posted by other members and it was a help. I wanted to ask if anyone had found a closer match to the lid latches, I’m missing three unfortunately. I found my missing drawers on eBay and they’ll be here in a few days. I need the three latches mentioned above, a Union logo/badging if possible, some domed split rivets and a key but I will probably just make that. I talked to a fella about the rivets and he got his from mcmaster-carr but once I pulled them up they didn’t look to have the right dome, a little flatter but maybe that’s the best I can get. Could use a good leather source. I wrapped the handle in twine temporarily just to see how the inner handle felt and it’s fine, the original leather cover fell apart like old paper. So my main needs are the 3 latches and the rivets. If anyone has a good source to dead on or close enough I’d appreciate it. I looked at some gerstner latches but the ones I like were stamped so that would have to go but they were reasonably priced.

 

[Davefr]

If you're looking for domed head rivets I think Terry sells them.

Terry's Toolboxes

Quality restoration and sales of restored and repurposed vintage machinist's tool chests and boxes.

terrystoolboxes.com

Union decals might be available on Ebay. (at least they used to be)

Original latches will be tough to find.

I have a excellent document covering the handle recovering process. PM me if you'd like the file. You should be able to find leather locally or on Ebay. It has to be fairly soft leather for best results.

Good luck

 

[RTM]

I have a excellent document covering the handle recovering process. PM me if you'd like the file. You should be able to find leather locally or on Ebay. It has to be fairly soft leather for best results.

Buddy of mine recommended goatskin for recovering tool chest handles, seems to be the appropriate weight and good flexibility.