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Modifying tool/service cart...

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Tejaas

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Ok, here's the rundown.
Got a free, brand-new craftsman service cart from a buddy. Wasn't even assembled yet...

I was aware that the newer Craftsman stuff is thinner gauge steel, but I figured I could use this as "rolling storage" for one of my Miller welders.

It was a perfect fit on the bottom shelf... However due to the thinner steel uprights and the weight of the welder down low, there is a bit of sway when using the carts pushhandle... As in the top shelf rocks forward a bit ahead of the bottom shelf.

I'm thinking of using some flat aluminum stock and pop rivets to crossbrace the upright supports of the cart, but still will need to be able to remove the welder from the lower shelf...

Anyone done anything similar?




~Tejaas~
 
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T

Tejaas

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ImageUploadedByTapatalk1390803652.282507.jpg

Sorry, had difficulties posting photo.

This is the cart... All hardware tight and I did add lockwashers!


~Tejaas~
 
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zkling

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Ah, one of those, what is killing the stability is the single bolt on each joint, acting as a pivot pin. It looks like they give you a 2nd hole in the uprights, just need to add a matching hole to each shelf and then bolts. Tight holes with proper fitting bolts should really tighten it up.

Outside of that you could weld each corner to get rid of the pivot points.
 
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Tejaas

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zkling said:
Ah, one of those, what is killing the stability is the single bolt on each joint, acting as a pivot pin. It looks like they give you a 2nd hole in the uprights, just need to add a matching hole to each shelf and then bolts. Tight holes with proper fitting bolts should really tighten it up.

Outside of that you could weld each corner to get rid of the pivot points.
Click to expand...


I like your style... I figured that was the easiest / most practical / cost effective method...

Just wanted to see if anyone had any modifications that added to the practicality as well as structural aspect!

Thanks!


~Tejaas~
 
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lonestarky

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If you're going to pop rivet or bolt/weld a diagonal brace on there, make sure to put the Low side on the handle side. You want that brace in tension when you push it. Depending on the matl you use, it may just buckle if it runs the other way. Adding a brace gives you a convenient place to bold holders for the gun, rods, pliers, a hook for the helmet and coiling the cord, beer holder, etc.
 
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gorilla

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I would run a diagonal brace from the handle down to the front caster area on both sides. I think that would transfer the pushing force down to the wheel where you need it to go.It would be easy to make it swing away if you need access.
 
K

kbs2244

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A solid piece on one side and a "X" brace on the other.
Don't be afraid to install the shelves upside down so you have a smooth edge.
That makes it a lot easier to get heavy, bulky stuff on and off.
 
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Tejaas

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JakeKohl said:
Ummm...this seems like the obvious solution....weld it together?
Click to expand...



vwracer said:
Just weld the damn thing!
Click to expand...


Welding the attachment points isn't enough. I suppose I didn't make that clear enough, so I apologize....

The steel is thin enough that the supports themselves flex... To the point that I feel if I were to torque this cart even a seemingly small amount the legs would fold over halfway up.

I planned on welding the attachments as well, but was also looking for a bracing pattern or format that would offer more possibilities for storage or practical use.

As a guy who has made a substantial portion of my income welding/fabricating, I am not above the opinion that not EVERYTHING requires having a bead drawn on it or isn't better served with a supplementary / alternate method of repair.


~Tejaas~
 
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