Craftsman tool chest parts needed/question

[bugzilla46310]

Obtained a Craftsman top tool chest. It is missing the locking bars and key. No tags on the box. Looked some but couldn’t locate any. Does anyone know where one could get the locking bars? Or does anyone have pictures of them, as I could fab something up? Also need a key. Are these generic or lock specific? On the lock is the number 11 68. Is this a date code? Box is 26 x 12 x 15 high.
I made dividers for the drawers and plan on keeping it in the bed of my pickup with the majority of tools, fuses, etc. in it that go with us when we go camping. Thanks

 

[n8n]

1168 is probably the key code, it would be easier to get a replacement if you knew who made the toolbox ,is there a sticker anywhere inside with a part number?

my usual go-to, easykeys, did not list anything obvious.

Since it is open, you could just pop the lock cylinder out if you have a good local locksmith although they are getting harder to find.

 

[RTM]

On mine, the model number tags are in the top right drawer, if I remember correctly.

 

[RTM]

If go to eBay, put in

1168 toolbox key

See if they look familiar.

 

[Provincial]

Since it has all full-width drawers, if you only find or make one, it will lock all the drawers.

The dimples on each side of the lock cylinder suggest the box was made by Waterloo. That is sort of a Waterloo trademark.

There is a thread dedicated to the Red/Gray Craftsman boxes. Here:
https://www.garagejournal.com/forum...sman-tool-chests-and-cabinets-60s-70s.289206/

 

[RTM]

The dimples on each side of the lock cylinder suggest the box was made by Waterloo. That is sort of a Waterloo trademark

I changed my eBay search to change toolbox to Waterloo, and didn't see the 1xxx series, but I agree with Provincial, that is a Waterloo.

Cheaper answer might be to replace the cylinder and get two keys for about the same price.

 

[bugzilla46310]

Ended up making the drawer locking bars. Not much to look at but they function as should. For the lock I used one from our camper that I had when I upgraded the locks on that. Have one with a key if I decide I want it lockable. And yes, I kept the original lock. Made dividers for all three drawers. Finally found a used for the blind slats I kept when we got some new blinds. Have plywood dividers on the bottom drawer. Also added rubber mats to the top and bottom 2 drawers. Did a quick clean up and siliconed lubed the slides. Dated February 1974 and ready for another 50 years!

 

[Chipm]

Tell me more about the locking bars. I need some for a bottom cabinet. Looks like you did a good job.

 

[subroc]

OP, you have already installed dividers and if that is a permanent design, no need to upgrade. But, if that is temporary until you find another option, these might work.

I use them in several of my drawers.

https://www.amazon.com/Ernst-Manufacturing-Organizer-3-Compartments-Black/dp/B005Z3Z9N0/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[bugzilla46310]

Tell me more about the locking bars. I need some for a bottom cabinet. Looks like you did a good job.

The strip is from some stainless sheet metal I had. The bottom tab is 1/8” stock, 3/8” wide, the top tab is 1/16” stock, 3/8 wide. The hinge on top was a 1/4” bolt I drilled out. I inserted the strip/hinge assembly and closed the lid and scribed a line at the top of the drawers. The bottom of the 1/8 stock is at that line and the 1/16 stock is about 1/4” further down. Had to grind a little off the top latch as when you close the lid the strip moves out a tad and would catch. Welded with my mig.

 

[alinc100]

Without a close up I cannot tell , but I believe your original lock was an LL68

 

[RTM]

Without a close up I cannot tell , but I believe your original lock was an LL68

Those are easy to find on the web, hope you are right for his sake.