Best way to refurbish tool box?

[demighost]

Hey all I found this site recently while searching for a used tool box. Quick info about me I just graduated from a tech school over a year ago. Have been working at a Sears auto center to get my experience up. And came across a used tool box deal from my local snap-on dealer. He had a good but used KRL-661 I bought for $1000. Ive been searching in my area and a box half that size goes for well more.

Anyway, Like the title states I wanna get this box to almost new condition. I did a quick wipe down with paper towels and soap. And The older red paint looks good if I clean good enough. My idea was to hit it with soap+water and a drill buffer. Is there any suggested way to go? I dont want to repaint it. As the red looks good aged, Im not a fan of the shiny red you know?

Thanks for any help, and Ive been searching through post the info here is awesome. I'm looking into the toptul brand for cheaper but quality tools. I would have never found that on my own.

 

[Mike83]

Car wax and rubbing compound might work well to take some of the scratches out and shine her up nice.

 

[Davefr]

Use the same process you'd use for detailing an automotive finish. Clean it then progress through the various cleaning and polishing compounds and use a wax/sealant for the final finish.

I wouldn't use a drill buffer. Use a orbital polisher instead.

Not everyone understands the value of detailing a toolbox. Don't worry, there are other members that do.

 

[demighost]

Ok, kool. I Have a mother master detail kit I use on my mustang for knicks n scratches. So ill just use that also. I wront really need compound, The box does have small scratches. But I'm going for the overall finish of the paint. Thanks for help!!! Ill get a pic of my box up soon.

crappy blackberry pic but here she is.

 

[selohssa]

Start polishing on the back side of the box to get a feel for it. The paint on that box is very thin and it is easy to burn through. GO SLOW!

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

Not a bad looking box!

 

[Tim G]

Try using some 3M Imperial hand glaze {You'll probably have to get it at a body/paint jobber}
Kinda like a cleaner wax,has a real mild abrasive to take out swirl marks on freshly painted/buffed cars.
I use it on everything I own,works real well to clean up a mildly worn finish without the risk of burning thru with a buffer.