Keep and restore KR650/655 boxes or not?

[Super Sport]

I recently scored a great deal on a top and bottom SO box that could really use a restoration. It isn't in terrible shape, but has some surface rust and paint flaws. The boxes are dated 90 and have ball bearing slides. They are pretty much the perfect size for what I want, being 36" wide and over 20" deep.

I can keep them and eventually do a restore, where I would paint them the color of my choosing (probably blue). I can also sell them for quite a bit more than I paid and use my profit to buy a new US General or similar ~41" box. Note, I have no experience with sand/media blasting or painting something like this.

I have a set of 26" Cman QuietGlide boxes which suit me well except for the fact they are getting too crowded. I don't really need the high quality of the SO for my weekend DIY projects, but it sure would look good in the garage.

Not sure this thread will get me anywhere since there are diehards for both SO and the USG boxes, but I am curious in your opinions. Thanks!

 

[billymade]

How about some pics? That would help us see how things are; much depends on if you are time poor or time rich, if you have the money to buy new or better shape boxes. It is ALLOT of work to repaint and restore toolboxes; the time and paint supplies are not cheap, if not prepped well, paint applied well... you may not be happy with the end result. Maybe a strategically repairing just the worst areas and blending it in might be a great improvement; but first... I think in many situations; buff out, clean up the paint surfaces, compound and wax... you would be surprised how you can bring a box "back to life" with just detailing! The quality of the pro boxes is undeniable; most times cannot compare to retail cheaper stuff that is available today. A "worn" box has a certain patina and you don't have to worry about keeping it "perfect"; there is value in keeping the original paint, as they tend to be more durable then any non-electrostatic painting you would apply to it. Post some pics; good luck!

 

[Your Father]

Having a badass toolbox isn't always about NEEDING... a lot of it is WANTING. Do you want a bad box? I'd rather use a Snap On box over a Craftsman box, all things being equal. Of course, the correct answer is KEEP BOTH.

 

[e30bradley]

thats all for now.

 

[SIDECAR BOB]

Not a snap on fanatic, but there is no arguing that they make a nice box and I was alway told never trade down... agree with a previous poster, a good cleaning and detail and enjoy them would be my choice

 

[Super Sport]

thats all for now.

I knew this was coming! I will have to wait until tomorrow for decent lighting.

The paint that is on it is too rough to ever look great again. It's fully functional as it is, but it just doesn't look the best. Sooner or later I will need to learn and practice sand blasting and painting, just not sure I want to do it on this expensive of a box.

My choice would already have been made if I could get a cheaper box in a color/layout that I really like. Unfortunately I have not found an option that I completely like.

 

[crewchief888]

fwiw

whoever gets your toolbox when you go to the great garage in the sky, will probably thank you for the SO boxes..

the other choice probably not.

personally i wouldnt sell a truck brand box, then buy a HF.

i've had my kr550/555 since '86 when i bought them new, i set of friction slides replaced 4 or 5 years ago.

 

[ears]

No question keep the Snap on.