My vintage tool chest restoration projects

[DannySr]

I've been collecting tools for two years now. I've been searching Craigslist for bargains on tool chests that are in need of tlc. I would not be able to afford these boxes if I did not find them in this shape. Plus it's my hobby right now.

These are projects, some need more help than others
71 snap on top and bottom. 45$ on Craig's list
Unknown craftsman. Free
71 craftsman top and bottom. 200 Craig's list
81 snap on top. 25$ Craigslist
Unknown Thorsen top. 8$ goodwill


Does and one know the exact year of the craftsman that is blue or red? I'd like to find an online catalog so I can paint it to its stock color..

 

[Outlawmws]

You didn't post a pic of the Craftsman...

 

[DannySr]

I was having problem taking pics with the ipad. The pics are here now.

 

[jakemac]

In the 4th pic - How did you get the drill and sprayers to stick to the ceiling ? LOL

 

[DannySr]

Let's try again

 

[uniballer]

I used to have the whole set of craftsman like the blue ones. I believe the old man who sold them to me said he bought them in 1946

 

[Outlawmws]

The old craftsman roller is in the 1949 catalog. The Catalog isn't in color like that (rEd blacks and greys...) but the description was "light machinery grey" which may have been what the were calling Hammertone grey back then. Certainly a few years later they were using thet.

the matching Craftsman stack is 70's possibly into the 80's

 

[DannySr]

A lot of boozooka joe gum

 

[zkling]

That looks like a lot of cool vintage boxes for <$300

BTW Welcome to GJ Looks like you will fit in real well.

 

[DannySr]

I've been looking for images of the chest. I definitely like it. The sides of the chest remind me of a ships hull, extremely thick.


I found a stamp on each craftsman that said 71 on both pieces. What tools are meant for the deep tray in the middle? I was thinking chemicals, but they often leak and create messes.


Do you have a link to the late 40s chest so I could see the page?

Just curious? Is it worth anything? These tool chests take a lot of time and effort. Not that I want to sell it, but do you think it's worth putting in the effort.

 

[Carsandtools]

Seems like a nice hobby and a restored vintage tool chest combo would add interest to any garage. It also adds character if it is not restored. The old timer, weather beaten, rusted up look is genuinely attractive in the right place. Even better when you have an interesting story to go along with it. I might try to acquire one for my garage.

 

[zkling]

I found a stamp on each craftsman that said 71 on both pieces. What tools are meant for the deep tray in the middle? I was thinking chemicals, but they often leak and create messes.

On those boxes IDK . On a traditional machinist box, that is where a copy of machinery's hand book would go. I think Cman kinda went along those lines. I personally hate that drawer, it seems too narrow for its depth. Unless the item is really tall and bulky. It seems awkward to fit your hand in there to grab something.

Do you have a link to the late 40s chest so I could see the page?

http://www.roseantiquetools.com/id116.html

Just curious? Is it worth anything? These tool chests take a lot of time and effort. Not that I want to sell it, but do you think it's worth putting in the effort.

Every thing is worth something. I would say you got a good deal on those boxes when you purchased them. A collector wouldn't really be interested due to their condition. Likewise someone that wants a box to use right away probably wouldn't purchase them as they need some work.

Are they worth putting time in? Sure, in the end you will have some really nice boxes. HOWEVER if you plan on fixing them up to sell them at a profit, DON'T. The time, effort and materials involved to get them in good condition is going to be very high compared to the money you could sell them for once "restored". If you don't value your time at all. But realize you will probably be making <$1 hr. Sure go for it. Barring a few, very specific boxes the used tool box market, especially the 26" wide box market, is EXTREMELY competitive. YMMV though.

 

[softailgarage]

Just curious? Is it worth anything? These tool chests take a lot of time and effort. Not that I want to sell it, but do you think it's worth putting in the effort.

Nope, not worth anything at all and you cant just throw em away, there are laws. Go ahead, crate them up, pay for the shipping and send them to me, I'll take care of it for you.

Are they worth putting time in? Sure, in the end you will have some really nice boxes. HOWEVER if you plan on fixing them up to sell them at a profit, DON'T. The time, effort and materials involved to get them in good condition is going to be very high compared to the money you could sell them for once "restored". If you don't value your time at all. But realize you will probably be making <$1 hr. Sure go for it. Barring a few, very specific boxes the used tool box market, especially the 26" wide box market, is EXTREMELY competitive. YMMV though.

Amen, brother

 

[ZRX61]

Lower cover on this one shows original color:

 

[ZRX61]

I painted another one this color:



It looked like this when I got it:

 

[uniballer]

I wish I kept the one I had. Hope to find one set for sell near by!

 

[RatchetMan]

I painted another one this color:



It looked like this when I got it:

That is a clever idea where you made that wooden top. I like that.

 

[ZRX61]

Sides are 1x3, the base is a piece of what Lowes mistakenly call butcherblock. I was planning on putting pieces of wood (cut at 45deg) on the inside of the back corners & then cutting the outside to the same curve as the cabinet, just haven't got around to it yet.