Buying used toolbox. What to look for?

[BBC71Nova]

It often seems there are a lot of high dollar used truck brand boxes available for sale. Many appear to be barely used. I've always assumed those were people that got in the biz, then hated it and moved on. It could also be that when you spend a small fortune on a tool box you tend to take exceptional care of it .

So anyway, what are the key things to look for before purchasing a used box? Even used the boxes are still a good chunk of money so knowing what to look for in order to avoid getting screwed would be helpful.

Thanks!

 

[AndrewV]

Has keys.
Drawers/slides work good.
No/little rust.
Castrers move freely.
Perferably has liners.
NO STICKERBOMBING, so much more effort if you don't like them.

All i can say.

 

[FJ 432]

Tool boxes can be like RV's. Sometimes a mechanic can out grow a box or see another mechanic that has a nicer set up.

Look for a clean box that is something you will be proud to own because chances are it will follow you around for the rest of your life.

As only a simple rule of thumb mechanics are usually easier on their boxes as opposed to body men.

 

[jakemac]

Make sure that the badge on the box is actually correct to that box.
Don't buy a HF box with a Snap-On or MAC badge on it unless the owner makes it clear that it's a HF box and prices it accordingly.

 

[Bill Ramsey]

I look at the underside of a roller cab. Is the frame/sheet metal in good shape? This is the part of the box that bears all the weight, so ensure there's no rust-out here.

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

As only a simple rule of thumb mechanics are usually easier on their boxes as opposed to body men.

This. Everything being equal, much better to get a box from a mechanic than a body man.

 

[chipper]

This. Everything being equal, much better to get a box from a mechanic than a body man.

That's interesting is it because of dust opposed to grease or just body men throw hammers around...get pissed and slam drawers? I've never heard this before

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

That's interesting is it because of dust opposed to grease or just body men throw hammers around...get pissed and slam drawers? I've never heard this before

Dust in a body shop. Gets in the slides.

 

[Waggoner72]

Look at all the sides of the box. Bring a flashlight, people like to rattle can scratches and it can be hard to see in dimmer lighting. Pull all drawers out fully extended. Check for rust, make sure it is what they are saying it is, bring tape measure.

 

[Bigplum]

Make sure it's theirs to sell, ie ,not stolen or still paying for it , kinda difficult but look around for clues

 

[fasteddie313]

price
can I fix it reasonably
will it be serviceable
will it be worth twice what I have into it

if those items get checked, id buy it..

 

[BBC71Nova]

Thanks guys. Having spent some time hanging out at a body shop over the years I was already thinking a box out of a service shop may be better . Good tips.

The biggest concern if mine has always been knowing whether it was paid off or not. I posted a thread inquiring about that a while back. Not sure there is really a way to know for sure.