Hinge for cart with top?

[fatboysoffroad]

I've purchased a Harbor Freight cart that intend to use for storing some of my welding stuff. i.e. clamps, helmet, etc. as well as another work surface.

I can have additional storage under the top if I put a hinge on it but I'm uncertain if I should find a piano hinge or a couple of 3" ones would work.

Certainly not a big deal but I thought I'd get an opinion before I tackled the job. Anyone?

Jerry



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[cburnscrx]

Looking at that cart and the top...I'd be REAL careful with whatever hinge I put on that top. The top itself looks heavier than the cart! I see a tipped over cart in your future unless you're very aware when you open it.

*those HF carts are really useful!

 

[fatboysoffroad]

Tipping is something I hadn't thought of but I think as long as I don't extend the top past 90 degrees when open I don't think it'll be a huge concern.


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[Outlawmws]

I'd go with piano hinge. There is a reason tool boxes use it...

 

[BD1]

I'd go with piano hinge. There is a reason tool boxes use it...

Piano hinge for sure. You'll be happier.

 

[fatboysoffroad]

I've noticed the piano hinges on toolboxes and such but have never really had or read a discussion about the reasoning. No biggie. Just wondering.

Thanks for the feedback!

Jerry

 

[zkling]

I've noticed the piano hinges on toolboxes and such but have never really had or read a discussion about the reasoning. No biggie. Just wondering.

Thanks for the feedback!

Jerry

Full length, continuous hinges are more efficient strength per size wise (longer wire, more hinge loops, so for a same load divided by more supports, each support can be smaller compared to fewer supports). Technically either would work. If you already have the door hinges, they would work, just be a bit bulky. Make sure to line them up carefully so there is no binding. You also may want to put on some hinge supports or even gas shocks to limit travel and slow down opening/closing speed.

 

[Outlawmws]

Sheet metal is fairly flexible. The full length piano hinge will add stiffness, and as the top on a std box opens that stiffness is multiplied as the two chunks of sheet metal deviate from flat to 90 degrees.

With individual hinges the stresses develop at the edge of the hinge plate and at the fastener locations and I've seem many more failures with individual hinges than with piano hinge.