That reminds me that I need to post pictures of my version of the HF workbench. It's already cluttered with junk.
I also had the same idea to build a workbench with these as a base and when I started googling for exact dimensions I came across this thread. So nice to find Steve's original plans, experience and everyone else's variants to pick and chose ideas from. Thanks to all, especially Steve, for taking the time to post.
One thing to note is that HF has changed the design of these cabinets (spring 2018?) to make them deeper. They are now about 22" deep - as opposed to 18" originally(?). This happened just as I was getting started on my project.
For my take I used 2 cabinets with a hole for a chair/stool in the middle. The 2 long angle iron pieces on the top (front and back) that support the bench top, I bolted to the supports instead of welding, just in case I ever need to disassemble or move. Along the bottom, I eliminated the long supports and instead bolted the cabinets (using the castor holes) to the short (front-to-back) angle irons on the side. The cabinets are sufficiently supported there already. This saves some material, and allows disassembly, if ever needed, and maybe makes it easier to assemble (I laid the cabinets down on their backs, supported on some wood, bolted on the uprights at both ends and then tipped them up.). Although, it introduces some other complexities.
Scott.
Scott.