Fabbed tool chests . . . .

[big_dan]

So a few years back I changed jobs and ended up with a little more free time around the shop in the mornings. I built myself a large tool chest / storage locker for work and then . . . . POW. Seemed like everyone wanted one. I've built a bunch since, several for fellow guys at work, several for locals and a few more. This "top chest" was designed for a fella at work - he owned a large Homak bottom tool cabinet and wanted storage for his larger items. I generally have "creative freedom" in the design of the project, so this is my idea; and the latest to date. The "stamped" trucker girl was cut out of 1/8" plate and then hammered in with a soft rubber mallet and a little heat, by the way.

Enjoy. I'll post more as they come along.

Dan

 

[Daves69]

Dan,

That looks great. I like the look of the Mud flaps.

 

[longlivepunk]

I've been hoping you'd start this thread! Subscribed, and hoping you'll show is the process a bit!

 

[big_dan]

OK-

Here's another one. Framed with 1 1/4" box tubing I had laying around, sheet metal is standard 18ga. Simpler sheet metal; just straight beads except the doors; the "flames" were rolled in using a 1/8" step die. For scale, my oldest climbed in way back when. Doubt he'll fit now! Box was 4' wide, 5' tall by 2" deep, which gives the max space and minimum scrap.

Dan

 

[big_dan]

And another. For whatever reason I don't have finished pics of this one. Used the same 1 1/4" tubing I had on hand and got a little silly with the layout. Eventually had 5 shelves, some "Equipto" drawers down low, and a small intermediate box built in up top for smaller items. I'll try to dig up some finished pics later.

Dan

 

[captain14]

Does the helper stay in the box when it leaves to bring and retrieve tools?

 

[big_dan]

LOL. No - he stays here. Quite the good hand to have around, I might add.

Dan

 

[MN Battery Chuck]

Very nice job on those boxes! !

 

[willymakeit]

More. I need to build some.

 

[paul2112]

Wow,,very nice,what machine are you using to make ur cool doors?Pics? What gau. We're doors made out of?

 

[big_dan]

paul2112 -

I use box tubing (usually 1" up to 1 1/2"), angle (3/4x3/4x1/8 or 1x1x1/8) and 20 gauge sheetmetal for the majority of the projects. Most of the sheet metal "designs" are made using a half round and/or step die on the bead roller. The "trucker girl" was stamped by hand. Thanks for looking.

Dan

 

[motobilt]

Looks cool.

 

[JZHeyde]

Awesome work! I love the box with all of the heat marks on it. I would clear that thing and leave it as is!!!

 

[jimmybread]

Very cool stuff. More pics.

 

[big_dan]

Thanks guys.

One more - the box that started it all. I work as a millwright foreman and had a job site box at work for larger items. I needed a little more space so built this box to go under that for hoses, chains, rigging, etc. After this one it just kind of exploded from there.

Dan

 

[Tig Master]

Here is a great setup.

http://swivel.pro/index.php/about-us/video

T

 

[big_dan]

One more. A more common request these days is to fab a box to protect a higher priced unit like this Snap-on. Works for me and keeps these guys' high dollar boxes protected as well.

Dan

 

[mopar65]

those are super nice great work

 

[Iroc-Z]

Really cool and looks like great craftsmanship