Make and possible year

[PLOMB LOVER]

I recently came across this old 20-1/2" x 8-1/4" x 5-1/4" tool box..Inside were various makes of tools, mostly dating back to late 40's to mid 50's...Unfortunately, any decal or logo that was on the box has worn away ..I was hoping someone might be able to identify the make and possible year from the photos..If not, possibly point me to where I might be able to obtain such info..Thanks

 

[KnurledNut]

That Snap-on 3/8 drive 36mm/24mm flip socket is a nice piece to come across.

 

[WWheeler]

That Snap-on 3/8 drive 36mm/24mm flip socket is a nice piece to come across.

What's the use case for that? Oil filters?

 

[KnurledNut]

What's the use case for that? Oil filters?

Ford diesel oil and fuel filter caps in particular, but will work on any that size.

 

[3baygarage]

Brown crinkle paint?

 

[PLOMB LOVER]

I don't think so...

 

[Snaparxon]

Looks well made and tough as hell. I like the fact it has a stiffener plate added to the lid.
Were the Snap on tools in there when you found that box or did you put them there?
Like panning for gold and and finding a few nuggets, at least for me

 

[PLOMB LOVER]

They were in there as well..The Snap socket set w/ratchet was dated coded 1947, so I was hoping the box was that old..Not custom made but also no identification markings as far as brand...I'd love to know who made it.

 

[AEAdam]

1. This is a terrible thread title. If you wish to know about the origin of an old metal toolbox, make the thread title something like that.
2. If there were old Snap On tools in the box, I’d suggest you start looking for evidence it’s a Snap on box. Go to: Collecting snap on and start looking thru the catalogs to see if you can find something that looks like your box.
3. Paint could be a clue. Beneath that rust could be a bit of color. Red doesn’t instantly mean Snap on, but blue might mean it’s not snap on. Use an exacto knife or razor blade and try to scrape away a bit of rust.
4. Use your own sleuthing skills. Pay attention to the front corners of the lid, the handle, hasps, when you compare your box to those in the picture. Figure out the part number of the socket set.
5. Hint: the crisp sheet metal bends, the care with which the bottom was made, the reinforcement under the lid, all suggest skilled sheet metal workers whose countries’ industrial base was not bombed flat by my dad and his friends.

 

[orangeblood]

just for giggles...how much did you pay for the box / tools?

 

[Snaparxon]

Post some pics of the lid hinge(s) from the back side as well as the front with the lid closed. Dimensions would also be helpful. Have you checked the box for any stampings?

 

[esben57]

Post some pics of the lid hinge(s) from the back side as well as the front with the lid closed. Dimensions would also be helpful. Have you checked the box for any stampings?

Even on the hasp/ staple lock, although there does not appear to be anything in the photo.

 

[KnurledNut]

@PLOMB LOVER
I have a vintage Snap-on box of different dimensions, but similar build. I will try to post some pics when my schedule allows.

 

[Dodge]

AEAdam:This is a terrible thread title. If you wish to know about the origin of an old metal toolbox, make the thread title something like that.

Must have gotten your attention, you read it!!!

 

[AEAdam]

AEAdam:This is a terrible thread title. If you wish to know about the origin of an old metal toolbox, make the thread title something like that.

Must have gotten your attention, you read it!!!

Lol. I just feel bad for the OP because he seems really keen to get info and hes only had a few responses.

 

[Dodge]

 

[PLOMB LOVER]

Looks well made and tough as hell. I like the fact it has a stiffener plate added to the lid.
Were the Snap on tools in there when you found that box or did you put them there?
Like panning for gold and and finding a few nuggets, at least for me

I got the newer stuff at a different time..The old Snap On Set was in the box.

 

[seber]

Everything about it says Kennedy except the padlock hasp which I don't believe Kennedy ever used. Could that have been a substitute?

 

[PLOMB LOVER]

just for giggles...how much did you pay for the box / tools?

$100

 

[four.cycle]

@PLOMB LOVER -
Yes.... it is a terrible thread title... .I thought it was going to be a used car before I opened the link.
Try posting the photos over in the main PLOMB thread or alternatively in the vintage tool box thread and see if somebody recognizes it.
I would think with that doubled bottom panel, somebody will recognize it.

 

[KnurledNut]

@PLOMB LOVER
Check the back (possibly center) for stamped markings.