Old Toolbox ID

[craggus2000]

Hi everyone,
This is my first post on here, but I've been member for a little while, taking stock of the vast collective knowledge of all here!
I have a keen interest in vintage tools fully appreciating "they don't make 'em like they used to", and particularly in restoring.

To that end, I have a toolbox that was my grandfather's when he worked at Ford here in the UK, in the 50's - early 80's and wondered if anyone could shed any light as to what it might be...
There are no obvious codes or stamps on it, and I think the original colour is the slightly metallic purple you see on the 1st and 3rd drawers.
It is about 8 inches deep, 16 inches tall, and 18 inches wide, but that's only a guess as I forgot to measure it earlier
The drawers also have solid brass knobs on, and on top is a black/brown leather sprung handle.

It is also entirely possible he made it himself!

I plan to restore it, so would appreciate any advice too!

Pictures below:
<img src="https://blog.oroccowood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Toolbox-before/IMAG0184-e1500461126488.jpg" width="70%"/>

<img src="https://blog.oroccowood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Toolbox-before/IMAG0185-e1500461145395.jpg" width="70%"/>

<img src="https://blog.oroccowood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Toolbox-before/IMAG0187-e1500461183799.jpg" width="70%"/>

<img src="https://blog.oroccowood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Toolbox-before/IMAG0188-e1500461135512.jpg" width="70%"/>

<img src="https://blog.oroccowood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Toolbox-before/IMAG0189-e1500461158933.jpg" width="70%"/>

<img src="https://blog.oroccowood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Toolbox-before/IMAG0190-e1500461167383.jpg" width="70%"/>

Thanks very much

 

[Outlawmws]

Very interesting box; I was expecting it to be wood, not metal. I've never seen one quit like that but you are in the UK so I'm sure sources are different... I'd agree though, likely made by your grandfather or a one off in any case.

Latches may still be available. I happen to have a similar latch (I collect odd latches to use in repairs such as yours...), but the mounting plate is clearly different. but the mechanism should be very similar. the Hook par also provides the tension so its a real simple latch. Here is a pic so you know what to watch for:

 

[craggus2000]

Latches may still be available. I happen to have a similar latch (I collect odd latches to use in repairs such as yours...), but the mounting plate is clearly different. but the mechanism should be very similar. the Hook par also provides the tension so its a real simple latch.

Thanks Outlaw, one of the latches is broken, so I will keep an eye out!

I need to strip the paint and rust off to start the restoration, what method would you recommend? Electrolysis or good ol' fashioned elbow grease?
A little while ago I found a thread on here for electrolysis with a computer power supply, but can't seem to find it now.

 

[Outlawmws]

For boxes I generally use elbow grease, but if you setup a large enough tank, then an E bath is a great way to go for plain steels.

The PC power supply will be awfully small, unless you are doing small parts.

I have two older battery chargers, (real transformers) and have been using the smaller trickle/Motor cycle charger a lot for tools and the like , but for larger parts the big 20 A unit is hard to beat.