Rusty toolbox?

[RocketTR]

What's the best option for buying a new box (for home use) that will survive typical heat/humidity/condensation that is typical throughout the year here in New York? My old Craftsman box started to rust after about three years in my detached two-car garage. I'm in the market for a new box and I want something that won't rust. Should I look at stainless steel boxes? Or do any of the painted boxes have a finish on them that won't rust within a few years?

 

[SlowPoke-Canada]

Krown or Fluid Film will do a nice job protecting against rust. Paint chips a wear-through invite corrosion. If you keep your box clean and paint maintained, it should last damn near a lifetime. I sold my last Beach box for more than I paid new because it was purchased 20+ years ago and in excellent condition.

 

[absolutelybillsmood]

My Craftsman box rusts inside the drawers. I started keeping the inside of the drawers lightly oiled. I figure its good for the tools anyway.

 

[jerryd68]

In the drawers you can keep the small packages of dessicant that you find when you purchase electronics, this will also protect your tools.

 

[RocketTR]

In the drawers you can keep the small packages of dessicant that you find when you purchase electronics, this will also protect your tools.

Ironically, none of my tools rusted at all. Only the outside of the box developed rust.

 

[RocketTR]

Krown or Fluid Film will do a nice job protecting against rust. Paint chips a wear-through invite corrosion. If you keep your box clean and paint maintained, it should last damn near a lifetime. I sold my last Beach box for more than I paid new because it was purchased 20+ years ago and in excellent condition.

I never put any kind of coating on my box, but I will say that the paint was perfect. No chips, dings, or anything that could promote the formation of rust. That's why I'm so surprised that the box developed rust in the first place, although it wasn't a top-of-the-line box or anything....just a $500 Craftsman box purchased about 15-20 years ago.

 

[lilredex]

Camphor blocks and mothballs, year 'round, work to my stuff rust free in my unheated garage. Smells good too!


small screenshot software

 

[Outlawmws]

Just like your car, the box finish needs to be waxed to seal it from damp. It may seem silly, but not in really humid environments...

 

[Kevin54]

Camphor blocks and mothballs, year 'round, work to my stuff rust free in my unheated garage. Smells good too!


small screenshot software

I thought Camphor was taken off the market. Next time I'm in the drugstore, I'll have to check if they have them.

Years back, that's all I would put in a toolbox to prevent rust. Lot's of the older toolmakers had the camphor blocks. Walking through the Toolroom would certainly clear your sinuses in the summer