If anyone is looking for a decent toolbox...
- Thread starter r0meyrome
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Lookin4'67Galaxieconv
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Lookin4'67Galaxieconv
Well-known member
Even the Pro Craftsman boxes? I've heard the drawers can stick on the HF boxes.
Chris Adams
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Can you source that?
Curious, not so much about the HF box, but I am into tool boxes and would be curious what 'sticks' on a ball bearing slide.
Or are you talking about the lock sticking on the back of the drawer?
I have had that on some of my many Craftsman boxes but don't think the HF uses that method.
Anyway, I'm interested about the 'sticking' if you can remember where you read it, or ask the person that told you, I would appreciate it.
Also, I would be interested in seeing a ‘sticky’ slide, if that was what is being talked about here. I wouldn’t mind knowing if the HF slides can be rebuilt for a couple bucks like the Craftsman.
Lookin4'67Galaxieconv
Well-known member
Just a comment I remember reading, I think on here, once upon a time. They were referring to getting the drawer open. Once it's open, there's no problem moving the drawer. Maybe he got a defective box?!
makgreens
Well-known member
i wish i read this before i bought 2 old smaller boxes for equal the price....bummer...i mean an old snapon box is cool but a new box that works perfec is even better
GeorgiaHybrid
Well-known member
The "sticking" drawers on the HF (or northern tool) boxes are designed that way. That is their system to keep the drawers closed while moving the box. If you don't push hard on the drawer when you shut it, it will not click into the lock mode and will be easy to open.
If you push on the drawer face until it "clicks" home, it takes a good tug on the drawer to get it to open. Once loaded, they can take a LOT of weight and still run smooth. Like I said in an earlier post, I have a lot of lead in the drawers of mine (I admit they are overloaded) and they are still smooth.
Are they as good as the top line boxes? No... I will not give up my Snap-on box but as a starter box for a young tech or a home box , they are more than enough. The biggest problems for me with these boxes are the depth (only 18" for the 41" boxes) and the locks on the box (not a concern for home use).
Appearance might concern some (crinkle style paint) as they woud prefer slick paint but then again, others prefer the they way these boxes are finished. All in all, they are a great bargain for the money despite them being chicom made and should give you years of service.
As for the rails being easy to service, be aware they you will need to drill out the factory rivet holding them in place (this can be replaced by a screw). Once the holding rivet is drilled out, they pop out of tabbed slots like most rails.
If you push on the drawer face until it "clicks" home, it takes a good tug on the drawer to get it to open. Once loaded, they can take a LOT of weight and still run smooth. Like I said in an earlier post, I have a lot of lead in the drawers of mine (I admit they are overloaded) and they are still smooth.
Are they as good as the top line boxes? No... I will not give up my Snap-on box but as a starter box for a young tech or a home box , they are more than enough. The biggest problems for me with these boxes are the depth (only 18" for the 41" boxes) and the locks on the box (not a concern for home use).
Appearance might concern some (crinkle style paint) as they woud prefer slick paint but then again, others prefer the they way these boxes are finished. All in all, they are a great bargain for the money despite them being chicom made and should give you years of service.
As for the rails being easy to service, be aware they you will need to drill out the factory rivet holding them in place (this can be replaced by a screw). Once the holding rivet is drilled out, they pop out of tabbed slots like most rails.
Chris Adams
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Just a comment I remember reading, I think on here, once upon a time. They were referring to getting the drawer open. Once it's open, there's no problem moving the drawer. Maybe he got a defective box?!
OK, that's a detent thing. Nothing to do with the slides.
Waterloo is the worst offender on that, under the name Craftsman Pro, Craftsman Industrial and Waterloo.
Diesel_Crawler
Well-known member
My carftsman does that...all my tools are always at the back of the drawer when you close it
I think the craftsman line of boxes in Canada is made by Waterloo Not sure. Just that it made me mad enough to get a new snap on box to replace it.fordracing200
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I love the HF boxes....I want one..and I want this coupon to get one for 349 that I've heard people speak of?? Could Someone who doesn't want one please send it to me...? One trick I've learned with any box, is to spray white lithium grease on the slides, it works wonders. (sorry for resurrecting an old thread, just want more HF toolbox feedback)
The Muffin Man
Well-known member
In store, they have fliers with a cut out coupon for 20% any single item. You have to fill out some information like address and phone number, which you can bull**** like I did. I used mine on the side cabinet that was already on sale for $189 which totaled to $160 after taxes
. Just wait till the chest goes on sale though that way you can save yourself more cash.When Harborfreight sends out their next coupon via email, I'll pm you the printable link too.
Also don't use white lithium grease on the sides. When the grease gets old and contaminated it will be a pain to clean out. I've used motor oil instead and it has been great.
Merkava_4
Banned
That SuperLube 21030 works even better because it's clear and isn't seen when you open the drawer; it's a pretty good lube too.