Custom Tool Cart/Box

[KCarGuy]

While its still in its "build Stage", I thought that I would share this, and look for any more ideas.
It started as a Large Steel Box aquired with a homemade trailer over 20 years ago. It had welded hinges, welded side handles and welded on wheels (in the "step down" area).
I added to legs, cross bracing and bottom shelf (which holds my Jackstands now)
I added casters, and a handle.
I added an outlet, a extention cord, Cut up a 3 drawer Craftsman box and welded inside an opening in the front. I still need to cut the right side aluminum for the ext cord.
I am making my own trays or sections inside the box for tools.
It will hold sockets, screwdrivers, T wrenches, wrenches, nut drivers, hammers, tools for oil changes, and basic tools for working up and down the driveway.
I have an area for deep storage yet (still figuring out what to do with that)
Its overkill, its fairly heavy, yet rolls nicely.
I plan on painting it and (maybe) adding a rubber mat to the lid...as well as a fold away side shelf.
Please...any thoughts? Feel free and share.
Thanks.

 

[KCarGuy]

Here are a few more pics...

 

[JohnK007]

Hey KCar that looks pretty cool. Certainly looks sturdy!! I agree, a collapsible side shelf would be a handy addition when you have it rolled out into the driveway.

 

[KCarGuy]

Thanks John007 (love your Avatar),
I built and added my Collapsible side shelf today...I plan on adding 2 rececessed cup holders (beer) that will fit nicely in the "step down" area of the box when the shelf is folded.
Here is my addition...

 

[KCarGuy]

I also made and added a removable tray, that gives me access to a deeper area to store more tools, clamps, anything. to the right of that is an area for wire brushes.
Everything has been bent by simply scoring the metal with my grinder and using some angle iron in my bench vise to use as a sheet metal brake. Works!
After its all done, and the welds cleaned up...I'll prime and paint it all Orange. And use some 1/4 rubber matting for the top and shelf.
Its a beefy son of a Buck!
Comments....Ideas...Photos...Please!

 

[senlow]

I like it. You did a nice job of building the drawers into the cart. You may want to change to larger casters for ease of rolling. Rubber corner bumpers are always an asset to a steel cart that is used around painted surfaces. I can't wait to see pics of the completed cart.

Oh, you must paint the cart. A great project, like your cart, deserves a nice finish.

 

[jhn9840]

Gotta love it when you end up with something that is nice from just stuff you have laying around. Hope to see more pictures when you get it finished.

jhn9840
John

 

[KCarGuy]

Yes, It is cool to use stuff that I have laying around. Everything is Scrap from Old Equipment from work. All the Sheetmetal, the Tubing, and Casters were scavenged. A little beefier than needed, but it will outlast me.
Even all the tools are extras that I've had laying around.
All I bought so far was the 80th Anniversary Craftsman 3 drawer Box, and even that was on sale for $30.
Not the best box, but the size worked and all I needed was the Drawers anyway.
I like the idea about rubber corners/bumpers. I do have some larger casters, but it rolls nicely, and I do like keeping it low to the ground, just for stability.
Thanks for the ideas and comments so far.
I'd love to see more custom-home made carts that others have made or modified.

 

[Brad54]

Hang a small fire extinguisher on it, in that awkward spot left of the drawers as you're facing it.

A can rack for WD40, Brake Cleaner, etc. would also be handy.

-Brad

 

[KCarGuy]

Brad54...Good Idea. I really do need to mount a Fire Extinguisher.
I do have an area for a can of WD, Ill add another Hole for Brake Cleaner...Dont think of that.
Thanks.

 

[superautobacs]

KCarGuy,

Wow, I like it very much and you've given me further inspiration to put together a custom/frankenstein tool cart.

Any more updates?

 

[Frank Elson]

superb cart !
I do love the use of old salvage parts, it's what I like to do myself. Makes all that saving of stuff for years worth while.

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

Very cool. Looking forward to the finished product!

 

[Twoodie]

I wonder why Brad54 suggested a "A can rack for WD40, Brake Cleaner, etc. would also be handy." ? I have your article printed out and on my to do list. KCarGuy--great looking cart.
Tom

 

[Fins/413]

Kcar, Nice work I don't believe you will have any durability issues as it is built like a tank.

 

[december45]

Eric, not to change the subject but sure would love to see some pics of your New Yorker.... love the '59