Got a 68" Epiq toolbox- some questions

[zarbat007]

I got a used 68" Snap-on Epiq with cover about 2 weeks ago. Its midnight blue, its considerably bigger than the KRL1022 I was planning to get, but at least I know with this box I will not be running out of room anytime soon.


I've noticed compared to a new KRL in the tool truck, the drawers on the Epiq seem a bit more stiff (box boxes empty). It does not glide like the YouTube videos I've seen.
The box is stored in a garage (not heated and I'm in Canada).

Is this normal? Snap-on driver suggested bearing grease, but that's too thick and would attract dirt/grime.

I also noticed orange peel on paint surface and some spot weld "impressions" (circles appearing, same with the KRL in shop) under paint. Is this normal or just my OCD kicking in?

Midnight blue looks great under all lightning conditions.























Thanks for looking.

 

[Cato]

I can't help you with your questions, but I have to say that is a pretty shade of blue!

 

[rayh91]

Nice box! Would love to get an Epiq. I've gotten two KRLs last year. One was replaced under warranty.

Both boxes, the slides were a bit stiff from the beginning but after use, they get better. I use Superlube for the slides.

http://www.harborfreight.com/85-gram-super-lube-grease-cartridge-93744.html

 

[zarbat007]

Thanks for reply guys.

rayh91:
Why was the box warrantied? What happened?
This box is used but I assume it was sitting in a garage for a bit since the guy quit his work at a dealership.
I've used SuerLube before, but isn't it a bit too thick to be used as drawer lube?

I'm guessing something with less viscosity would be ideal.

 

[rayh91]

Thanks for reply guys.

rayh91:
Why was the box warrantied? What happened?
This box is used but I assume it was sitting in a garage for a bit since the guy quit his work at a dealership.
I've used SuerLube before, but isn't it a bit too thick to be used as drawer lube?

I'm guessing something with less viscosity would be ideal.

The locks wouldn't work on the smaller drawers. The locking mechanism in the back ended up being broken and scratched the drawers so they just gave me a new one.

Superlube is just right in my opinion (I think SO recommends it?). It works itself in. For really stiff drawers, I like to spray some tri-flow then put lube on top of that.

 

[malykaii]

I don't know if this is relevant. When I bought my used Matco box (accuride drawer slides, which I believe Snap On also used) the drawers felt stiff. Cleaning and grease didn't help. It wasn't until I put tools in that it felt super smooth and right.

 

[TK-421]

I'd fill your drawers with tools and see if that helps, and if it doesn't then I'd find a nice slick lube that will stay in place but not attract a lot of dirt/grime.

 

[canuckian]

The drawers in my Epiq were a little stiff when new and before loading the drawers. Once I loaded it up and used it the drawers could be opened and closed with one finger.

 

[jdcompman]

Everything you mentioned is completely normal. As others have said, load up your drawers and start using the thing. They will be silky smooth in no time. I would NOT add any lube or anything to the drawer slides.

 

[warmpancakes]

fill it and use it, do not add lube to the glides

 

[MWEric]

I got my KRL in January. About 10 degrees f. Drawers were very stiff empty. Loaded they are better but still a little stiff. No heat in the garage. Should get better over time and warmer weather. Awesome box by the way.

 

[Mark in Indiana]

zarbat,

Beautiful cabinet that you have!

I have some vintage Kennedy & vintage Clarke HD cabinets. Both with straight slides and ball bearing slides. As far as my own experience with drawer lube, I use silicone spray once a year. It doesn't attract dirt like grease does, and you will (in effect) be cleaning the slides every time you spray them. Clean drawer slides are happy drawer slides.

IMO: Concerning the defects in the finish, I think that's something that you'll have to accept, since you bought it used.

 

[zarbat007]

Thanks for reply guys.
I will start filling the box when it gets warmer. We got a record snow storm on Tuesday and its going to be a cold week.

zarbat,

Beautiful cabinet that you have!

I have some vintage Kennedy & vintage Clarke HD cabinets. Both with straight slides and ball bearing slides. As far as my own experience with drawer lube, I use silicone spray once a year. It doesn't attract dirt like grease does, and you will (in effect) be cleaning the slides every time you spray them. Clean drawer slides are happy drawer slides.

IMO: Concerning the defects in the finish, I think that's something that you'll have to accept, since you bought it used.

Mark, thanks for reply.

I would not consider them defects, just imperfection. I like to do paint and body work as a hobby and my eyes can detect every imperfection in the car finishes: sanding scratches, shrinkage, orange peel etc... Most people would not even notice.
Being a bit OCD also doesn't help.

Nowadays orange peel is seen on nearly all new cars, even BMWs.
As for the weld spots, I looked at the red KRL box in shop and almsot every drawer has it. The Epiq doesn't have that much spots, but its a dark blue color and every imperfection will be easier to notice.

I guess I assumed considering the Epiq pricing, Snap-on would try and get a mirror like finish.

 

[Frunk]

Probabaly off topic but i just received my new 60" epiq box and it does have very noticeable spot welds. Sorry if they are bad pics, im on my phone and new to this forum.

 

[Wamsutta]

The drawers will slide easier when weighted down more.

Visible spot welds are normal.

Frunk: yours looks like an excessive amount of spot welds in a small area.

 

[Duster346]

I also bought a used 68" Epiq and the top drawer was also very stiff. Only mine was stiff once loaded down, and moved easier once empty.

My SO dealer warrantied the slides for my top drawer. All better now.

They did seem to be different slides as well. Maybe revised?

Good luck... and nice box, sir.

 

[Derek420]

Nice box and the orange Peel just ocd they are powder coated it's not unusual.. Sure wish I had one in green or white..