Help to ID vintage tool cabinet

[kbuhagiar]

Hello folks,

I've had this old rollaround bottom tool cabinet for several years. I would like to identify it so I can put a value on it and sell it.
Based on the age of the original owner I figure the box was purchased, probably new, in the late 1950s or early 1960s.

I cannot find any markings on it anywhere; I looked in all of the drawers but no company name or model number can be found. It appears to have the original orange paint. The drawer slides are old-school and can be locked (but I do not have a key). It is a nice heavy-duty unit, and it's construction (i.e.metal gauge/thickness) is equivalent or better than currently available professional-grade boxes. Hopefully some can give me a clue on its origin based on the color and the drawer handle configuration.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

I'm wondering if it's not an MBC, out of Chicago. Regardless, I would put the value about $50-75. Nice little box to have around for specialty use.

 

[kbuhagiar]

I'm wondering if it's not an MBC, out of Chicago. Regardless, I would put the value about $50-75. Nice little box to have around for specialty use.

Truth be told, I'm having second thoughts about selling it. It really is a solid, heavy, well-made cabinet. The drawer slides aren't anything remarkable, but they were the standard at the time. It rolls around well. It would make a good tool stand. I wish I could find a key for the lock. I'd replace the lock, but it's buried behind welded panels and there's no way I can see to get to it.

I did a search for 'MBC' cabinets, and the pictures that came up do look similar. However, all of the pictures I found have the lock located at top center; on mine, it is in the upper right-hand corner.

 

[FJ 432]

This is a top cabinet that I owned at one time that was made by MBC.

I see some similarities. Could you provide some dimensions?

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

I've never seen a lock on the right side like yours. Usually they're center top. Sometimes center bottom. But never on the side.

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

This is a top cabinet that I owned at one time that was made by MBC.

That is sweet!

 

[1982fxr]

I've never, ever seen a side lock like that. The edges of the drawer pulls are somewhat unique.

 

[y'sguy]

Looks like a keeper to me.

 

[kbuhagiar]

This is a top cabinet that I owned at one time that was made by MBC.

I see some similarities. Could you provide some dimensions?

Sure - 26 3/8" wide x 18 1/8" deep x 31 7/8" tall.

That box looks like a perfect mate to my bottom box. Same design features.

 

[RTM]

I've got an older Kennedy with the lock on the side, and will concur it's a PITA to get out. At some time in my life I will ping our resident locksmith, but won't waste his time til I am serious.

Craftsman Tool Chest 0val Lock

Anyone familiar with this lock setup on Craftsman tool chest and where I can purchase one? Thank you.

www.garagejournal.com

 

[kbuhagiar]

Close-up of the code on the lock:



Any way to use this to get a correct key?

 

[RTM]

Any way to use this to get a correct key?

Maybe Google?

Google Search

CompX National Replacement Key Series C01B - C100B

You are purchasing 1 replacement key for file cabinet or desk drawer lock. Other manufactures using these keys include Sentry. Keys are cut to your lock code, the code is located either on the original key or on the lock next to the keyhole. All Gkeez keys are guaranteed to work.

gkeez.com

 

[kbuhagiar]

Maybe Google?

Google Search

CompX National Replacement Key Series C01B - C100B

You are purchasing 1 replacement key for file cabinet or desk drawer lock. Other manufactures using these keys include Sentry. Keys are cut to your lock code, the code is located either on the original key or on the lock next to the keyhole. All Gkeez keys are guaranteed to work.

gkeez.com

Thanks for that!

I tried to Google that key code number but did not come up with that web site.

Key has been ordered!

 

[RTM]

I tried to Google that key code number but did not come up with that web site.

I think it was my 3rd result on the first page. Here might be a few clues as to the maker.

Search Results -> C27b : Lostakey.net