Craftsman toolbox lock R&R

[rjmkn]

This is my first post here so, Hello to all. Hopefully someone can assist me?!? I have a Craftsman 56" Professional Toolbox and the lock cylinder for the top box failed. This box is 2 years old so Sears covered the part but not the service call (will fix free if I bring in the box...Ya Right!). Any ideas on how to repair it when the box is still in the locked position? (with out damaging the box ) Thanks in advance.

 

[tonydanzah]

Something similar happened to my montezuma built craftsman box. The lock came disconnected to linkage inside while the box was locked. Was loaded with tools so i could not move it. I tried drilling and pulling the lock out. Got it out with no damage. Then I tried for 2hrs trying to fish the linkage. But it had fallen 5 inch into the bottom of the drawer. Working in the 3/4" hole didn't help. After all the frustation I just gave up and cut the lock hole bigger and fished it out.

 

[rjmkn]

My fears are now realized. I was thinking the same thing. Thanks for the confirmation. I will post the results after I build up the nerve to take a drill to my box....LOL!

 

[9GUY9]

tip the whole box upside down and the lock bar should drop to the open position

 

[tonydanzah]

that would not have worked on my box, the linkage actually needs to be turn to pull the locks on either sides of the drawers in the front.

 

[9GUY9]

that would not have worked on my box, the linkage actually needs to be turn to pull the locks on either sides of the drawers in the front.

i just figured it was a bar that moved up and down. But it was a joke anyways, i didn't figure anyone was going to want to turn their large tool box (probably full of tools) upside down.

 

[tonydanzah]

yeah i wish that it would have been that simple. it was a bar on each side but they are held across by the linkage(at least on my box) I even tried a slimjim on both sides of a drawer at once pulling up without any success. It would just bind on the linkage. Always fun cutting a holing in a 3 month old stainless box

 

[rjmkn]

Slimjims, grab tools and coat hangers won't work unfortunatly. All good ideas but on the Craftsman boxes (at least my Pro Box) the locking mechanism from the lock and lever assembly is a cable the runs to the rear of the box to a lever that actuates the rear verticle lock bars on each side. Tandanzah I will be joining your club "Hole Cutting in my Box"...LOL! Thanks all.

 

[stroked93]

cut the backside of the box.

 

[tonydanzah]

not sure on his box, but the locks and linkage are in the front of mine

 

[crewchief888]

wow

i havent locked a tool box ( for security) in 15 years, some of my old boxes i dont have keys for anyway only time i lock mine is if they are being transported

 

[rjmkn]

just to update the progress. In order to replace the damaged lock I have to also replace the lock handle assembly too. I have been on the phone with Sears for the last hour and 45 minutes, spoke to 13 people, and was hung up on twice only to find that I have to obtain my "warranty parts" from Waterloo. I have to call them direct and of course they are closed now. Why Sears did not mention this in the first place I don't know. I should have listened to the person who answered a thread I saw here over the weekend that mentioned Waterloo as a source and original manufacturer of the box. At this point I say to all, be very cautious when you are considering a Craftsman Professional tool box. Inquire on the Waterloo, and of course the "Truck Dealer" boxes. Until the next episode!!

 

[mooman]

I went through the same BS with Sears about my pro box.
I ended up calling Waterloo direct and was very pleased with the level of service from them. Thay also mentioned that this wasn't the first time they have heard from someone not pleased about the Sears service.

 

[rjmkn]

Well after all the **** with Sears I finally called Waterloo. They had me try a couple of things, I called back and said it did not work. They said no problem, drill out the paddle handle to get in and let them know all the parts I needed. I did so and all the parts are covered under warranty. Waterloo is great to work with. Thanks to all.