File Cabinets as tool bases

[Scimonetti]

I need some new bases for a couple benchtop tools, something that doesn't waste space and is cost efficient. Having recently picked up a couple file cabs to build into a bench I really like how nice the slides are on the older heavy ones, and they are great for power tool storage and could be really nice for storing accessories for that tool.






I have no idea why I've never used them before and it got me wondering if I could use them as bases? For a 6x48" belt sander, 5" jointer, scroll saw and other stuff like that. As long as the heights work out and I use a plywood top or something, I think it should work? Or will the inevitable vibrations destroy the spot welds?


If you have done this before please post it up!

 

[metaldad]

fit them, so they're plumb and flush. cover with a sheet of 3/4 luan or whatever.
i have a pair of old cabinets (punch cards?), works great

 

[ruffryder]

If you check craigslist, they typically offer them for free all the time. I personally like the lateral file cabinets. I have use a small two drawer vertical file cabinet for my little drill press. Works just fine, though I had to put a piece of plywood on top of them.

They are great for storage, much better than shelves, and they keep everything protected as well.

Honestly, I am surprised this is the first time I have seen regular file cabinets mention on GJ. Know I have seen those nice Lista and Stanley / Vidmar ones, but I stay with the free cabinets. I am actually getting ride of three 4 draw vertical ones. I typically just put them on the side of the road with a for free sign on them.

 

[zkling]

Not really, at least not without modification. Most file cabinet aren't designed for top loads, and I think you will find most suffer from lateral stiffness along the Z axis (height). Meaning they sway left to right. I would built a small frame around them to actually hold the top weight if you plan to put anything remotely heavy on them.

 

[Spudland_Dave]

Really all depends on WHAT you get & find.

Home Office light duty stuff from Office Depot/Staples/Walmart...don't waste your time. If you can find real deal commercial brand/grade units, no issues at all.

 

[Parrothead]

I use lateral file cabinets to store things like nail guns, etc. They're great. I buy them used off craigslist for pennies on the dollar. They hold a good amount of weight, and I even put a frame and casters underneath.

*you can get good versions at Staples, but they have to order and are expensive.

 

[2oolhound]

Not really, at least not without modification. Most file cabinet aren't designed for top loads, and I think you will find most suffer from lateral stiffness along the Z axis (height). Meaning they sway left to right. I would built a small frame around them to actually hold the top weight if you plan to put anything remotely heavy on them.

Put them on wheels and tack an angle iron frame around them (as in bed frames). Then you'll have something.

 

[Mark in Indiana]

The best ones are around 50 to 70 years old. I usually find them for <10$ per drawer.

 

[Mr Ratchet]

Like tool boxes, not all file cabinets are created equally.Some are stronger than others and flex less. Lateral files are wider with widths from around 30" to 42" and 18" or 20" deep. Vertical files are narrow around 15" to 18" wide and similar depths. Pedestals are just a shorter vertical file.
The best file cabinets are made by Herman Miller (Meridian). They are very modular and can be set up in many ways. Some of these file cabinets have reenforced tops or they can be replaced with wood for even more strength. Some come with small casters or you can add your own.

I use quite a few different file cabinets and have posted pictures of them here at GJ.

Here is my stick welder mounted to a ped with casters. The drawers contain rods, cables, helment, chip hammer, leathers, gloves, wire brush, etc.


36"x18" 4 hi lateral file with half drawers in the top wrapper (section). It has casters to be able to move out of the way along with the Matco box. It holds things like drill bits, extension cores, air hoses, extra saw blades, work lights, clamps, etc.


Here's a 2 hi vertical file with half drawers on top to hold things like zip ties, sand paper, tape, and other misc things.


Here's a 2 hi vertical file broken down in half with the top and base removed and mounted under my bench in my hunting shooting room.


Another ped in the closet in my hunting/shooting room. This one has small casters with a handle to pull it around and a cushion top that doubles as an extra seat. I use it for hunting gloves, belts, socks and misc hats, etc.


Then there are others that are used as a actual file cabinet along with storage cases in the garage to hold car products like soap, wax, oil and other things to keep out of sight.

 

[turbowoodworker]

I read the caption afterwards but my first thought was, "Man that guy really likes camo!"