I was wondering if any Mac Tool experts could give me an idea of when this model of Mac box was built/sold? I scoured the unit with drawers out even, to check it inside out for a model # at least. No luck. Im going to clean it good first before I decide on my plan, but I know I will have to at least paint over where the artist sprayed his initials on the inside lid. I have used rust oleum sunrise red on craftsman units I rehabbed but was wondering what is the consensus on the best color choice to match a Mac box? Boy, it is really much heavier built than my Craftsman units.
Any Help Dating This Mac Tool Chest?
- Thread starter demiandvm
- Start date
Believe it's early 1980s. I have a similar MATCO branded top and roll chest with that style drawer pull. I think pic below is 1981 MAC catalog which has that style box on cover. I had also purchased a couple of MAC roll chests around 1985/86 that used a full width pull.
senlow
Well-known member
The Mac box is late '70s to mid '80s. The drawer handles help to identify the era.
I'm not positive, but I think that model number and build date are stamped on the bottom of the box. as in, you will have to turn it upside down to see the stamping. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong.
A competent locksmith should be able to cut a new key from the code on the lock.
- Early Mac boxes had formed steel drawer handles.
- Mac then changed to die cast handles. I think this occurred in the early '70s, but I cannot be positive. These handles have the name "MAC" above "TOOLS" with a recessed oval background that is painted black.
- Around 1977-1979 Mac changed the logo on the handles. These handles have the name "MAC" beside "TOOLS" with a recessed rectangular background that is painted black.
- In the mid '80s they changed to a single extruded aluminum handle that is almost the full length of the drawer.
I'm not positive, but I think that model number and build date are stamped on the bottom of the box. as in, you will have to turn it upside down to see the stamping. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong.
A competent locksmith should be able to cut a new key from the code on the lock.
LopezBart
Well-known member
I was going to comment that he took it home on the first date, too.
I'm taking home anything chesty on the first date too.
Nutria
Well-known member
Perhaps also check on the lower left of the back side of the box, but OP probably already looked there.
pelletman
Well-known member
And don't forget to go for the kiss!
ganymede
Well-known member
Im surprised there’s no date code on it. There’s usually a month and year stamped in the lower left corner of the top compartment.
Jayman17
Well-known member
You should be able to order keys online with the lock code. I was able to on a Kennedy box I bought at an auction. Try Easykeys.com