Suggestions for a portable tool box

[bimmerZ5]

I'm no pro, but I do quite a bit of DIY on my own cars and many of my friends and neighbors. All my tools are in my garage in 3 large tool chests. But recently I've been thinking of building a portable tool box set that I can bring with me if I need to go on the road to help someone out. I picked up this box from Home Depot:

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-3-Drawer-Portable-Tool-Chest-with-Tray-TB-303B/203206053#

It's a decent box and I don't think I'll want to bring more than I can fit in that. If I need to grab an extra piece or two from my main tool chests, that's fine. But for the most part I'm hoping I can throw this in the car and go.

So, now I'm thinking what tools do I need for this purpose? This is mainly for automotive repairs; for typical home repairs, I've got a separate box for that already. Here's what I've got so far:

1. 1/4-in drive standard and deep socket sets, 4mm-15mm metric sizes only
2. 3/8-in drive standard and deep socket sets, 6mm-19mm metric sizes only + 1 spark plug socket
3. 1/4-in & 3/8-in ratchet sets (these are my 84t Gearwrench flex heads + a stubby; these got retired from my main box since I upgraded to 120xp stuff)
4. 1/4-in & 3/8-in extensions (3 different lengths)

??? - should I consider adding 1/2-in drive stuff ???
??? - should I consider adding any ratchet adapters ???

5. a 7pc set of pliers (long nose, slip-joint, linesman, diagonal cutters, nippers, 2 different tongue & grooves)
6. a set of Wiha 6pc screwdrivers (3 PH0,1,2 and 3 different slotted sizes)
7. i have a LED HFT flashlight
8. also have a HFT multi-meter

That's all I got for now (mainly from tools I retired from my main boxes), but I'm thinking of adding the following stuff:

- a set of metric wrenches. but should I get combo wrenches? or double open end wrenches to get more sizes in fewer wrenches?
- I'm thinking of adding 2 different size adjustable wrenches that might cover something I don't cover with the standard wrench set above; thoughts?
- need a striking tool... should i add a ball pein hammer? or a 3lbs sledge? or?
- I need something for cutting... should i just add a utility knife? something else?
- torque wrenches... i was thinking of adding a 3/8-in 100 ft-lbs torque wrench as I have a spare one, but not sure...

Is there anything else that I might want to consider if I can fit it in? As of right now, I still have 2 drawers empty. Would appreciate any thoughts or tips to make this box as useful as possible *most* of the time.

 

[captain14]

There was a thread here the past 3-4 months on how guys arranged their 3 drawer boxes. You should be able to search for the thread. Might give you some ideas for yours.

 

[Dave455]

Having a separate 'portable' set of tools is a great idea! For years I struggled with all my tools stored neatly in my workshop, and a good half of my work done elsewhere! I was forever carrying tools around in old cutlery trays and wooden boxes! Now I just grab my 'travelling' kit and go!

Your list is much more comprehensive than I started with. I never bothered with 1/4 drive at all, and still don't, but I do carry a 7mm nut runner as that's smaller than my 3/8 goes to!

I do carry combination wrenches, and they are my most used tools, but it depends how you work! I carry some 1/2 inch drive as well, but only a few of the bigger sockets and a breaker bar! A 19mm wheel nut that hasn't been touched ina few years is a bit much for 3/8 drive!

It's worth taking along a few basic parts as well. I carry spare nuts and bolts in the popular sizes, a small tin of self tapping screws, a few hose clips in various sizes, a yard of 5/16 fuel hose, some hose repair tape and a roll of insulating tape! It's amazing how much you can do with these basics!

I use the same basic setup for working on machine tools, but just switch the metric wrenches for Whitworth or whatever as required!

 

[cburnscrx]

I started a thread on this awhile back. Lots of good suggestions.

I like the 3 drawer boxes, but I went the plastic route. Doesn't dent, rust, or scratch (the car or the box). The downside to mine...friction slides.

I've changes some things around since then, and am always adapting based on needs.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=185888

 

[ez-duzit]

A large, heavy duty, old, plastic, darkroom tray makes a good tool tray that is easy to search through when you are under or alongside a vehicle. My sockets remain on those strip clips.

 

[Adam.C]

I have a similar need. I use those flat plastic boxes with the dividers that people put hardware in. I lined each compartment with foam, then made cut outs for the tools. The boxes hold shallow sockets in metric and sae, ratchets, extensions, pliers and screwdrivers. I couldn't fit the wrenches. The boxes have general purposes; 1/4 drive is for interiors. That box has a vast set of Torx, Allen's and screwdriver bits for 1/4 drive. 3/8 has Allen's and some larger Torx and triple squares. 1/2 box isn't shadowed yet, but has impact sockets, pry bars, etc.

 

[senor fozz]

That is a hard price to beat. I was going to suggest a used KR59, IT is about 2.5-3 times the size though. The only downside is if you are a smaller guy you might not be able to move it yourself. I work mobile and know this box is the best compromise in terms of space and being able to move it(subject to physical size and strength of user). I used to use a combo of bags and the two carry boxes mentioned below.

In terms of 3 drawer I have a red CM (overpriced, new $80, I have seen them used for 25, I bought the KR59 for 90) carry and its older brother, the three drawer rally. I prefer the rally because the top compartment has a box that comes up with the lid.

 

[zkling]

IMHO some of the best portable boxes are the craftsman 3 drawer, viper 3 drawer (expensive), kennedy 520 or the like. Lots of drawers to keep things organized. Then maybe add a standard hand carry box without drawers for the large heavy items. I think they are a good balance between size, capacity and weight. The problem with portable and having every tool needed is going to be weight.

 

[senor fozz]

Forgot about the 520 wish I bought one instead of the red craftsmen. There is also 4 and 5 drawer versions of many 3 drawers. If you are in set on this size(base width x depth) the additional drawers don't add much more weight even when filled with tools.

 

[zkling]

I was going to suggest a used KR59, IT is about 2.5-3 times the size though. The only downside is if you are a smaller guy you might not be able to move it yourself.

Are you talking about a Snap On KRA59, 9 drawer? Those are a really nice box, but portable they are not. Empty they are ~100lbs. I'd guess loaded is in the 300lb+ range. I'm not sure if the side handles could even hold to lift it up.
Another thing that kinda ***** about the full 27" wide boxes is they are really hard to walk through a door with. The little KRA53's might be nice. Or one of the KRA57, or 63's would be really cool with that top panel. Then again you get into full weight issues.

 

[zkling]

Two other possible options if $ is no object. The Hazet folding carts and the pelican box on wheels are slick, but dang $ wise. Then there are the cantilever boxes. Some of them look neat, but no personal experience with those.

As far as what to add to your current setup. I'd say that you are going to be the best one that could show what you need.

I'd add a med size ball pein. Unless you do quite a bit of heavy work, I'd forget about the sledge. About the only time I use a sledge during portable work is to get the drums off a rusty car. I'd also add a set of metric combo wrenches, most common sizes.

For cutting, at least a utility knife, a pair of scissors and a razor blade holder for scraping.
The 3/8 torque wrench is really going to be a personal work type thing. Have you ran into a situation where you need it?

 

[stage20]

the one you list i bought. returned! there is no lock for the drawers.... kinda defeats the purpose of portable, IMO. closed lid, drawers can still open and close. its nice wuality, ball bearing, etc...

i bought a nice 4 drawer at tractor supply. they also have a 3 drawer. the handle on the tractor supply box far exceeds any other brand. nice and thick for my big hand. most others are cheap hard, thin type plastic. stay away from the craftsman, it has cheap slides. dollar store type slides.

 

[bimmerZ5]

the one you list i bought. returned! there is no lock for the drawers.... kinda defeats the purpose of portable, IMO. closed lid, drawers can still open and close. its nice wuality, ball bearing, etc...

i bought a nice 4 drawer at tractor supply. they also have a 3 drawer. the handle on the tractor supply box far exceeds any other brand. nice and thick for my big hand. most others are cheap hard, thin type plastic. stay away from the craftsman, it has cheap slides. dollar store type slides.

I don't know what you're talking about. Mine locks when the top is closed.

 

[stage20]

maybe i had a defective? either way, im happy with this tractor supply version.

 

[ez-duzit]

to-go kit

If you work on heavy stuff like chassis and suspensions, or heavy engine rebuilding, work on trucks and equipment, you will need 1/2" drive.

Besides filling in SAE sockets, to what you've listed, add:

3/8 breaker bar and cheater
3/8 swivel
Ford wrench
small and large Crescent wrench
Vise-Grip (s)
set combination wrench (mm & ")
jackknife-style hex and Torx key set (mm & ")
feeler gauge set
razor-scraper
Xacto knife
utility knife
putty knife (s)
hacksaw
engineer's probe
plastic dial caliper
cold chisel
punch (s)
battery post cleaning brush
small wire brush
articulated inspection mirror
file (s)
felt marker & chalk
small tape measure
hammer
scissors

There are many other items you will discover it is handy to keep in your to-go kit.

 

[senor fozz]

Are you talking about a Snap On KRA59, 9 drawer? Those are a really nice box, but portable they are not. Empty they are ~100lbs. I'd guess loaded is in the 300lb+ range. I'm not sure if the side handles could even hold to lift it up.
Another thing that kinda ***** about the full 27" wide boxes is they are really hard to walk through a door with. The little KRA53's might be nice. Or one of the KRA57, or 63's would be really cool with that top panel. Then again you get into full weight issues.

Empty weighs less than 50 by my gut feeling loaded I'm pushing between 125-175 depending on how much stuff is in it. I could load it to 300 but then I couldn't move it myself. I store a lot of electrical testing equipment, plastic pryers for interior, and I don't have tools on top of tools like I did with the smaller 3 drawers.

When I carry it, it is always between a 36" tall table and my truck bed. When I'm working I use my tailgate as a workbench(box never leaves the bed while working), never through a door way and never lifting it off the ground. Its portable but not walk upstairs alone portable. I like the 53's too, and I'm pretty sure I could fit at least 90 percent of the tool from the 59 it would just be more cramped.

 

[zkling]

Empty weighs less than 50 .

I don't think you are thinking about a KRA59. Those are a minimum of 85lbs completely empty. That or you are alot stronger than you think you are

http://collectingsnapon.com/catalogs/catalogs.php?loggedin=0&catalogPage=4916

 

[bimmerZ5]

hey guys, any thoughts on the questions I had?

- a set of metric wrenches. but should I get combo wrenches? or double open end wrenches to get more sizes in fewer wrenches?
- I'm thinking of adding 2 different size adjustable wrenches that might cover something I don't cover with the standard wrench set above; thoughts?
- need a striking tool... should i add a ball pein hammer? or a 3lbs sledge? or?
- I need something for cutting... should i just add a utility knife? something else?
- torque wrenches... i was thinking of adding a 3/8-in 100 ft-lbs torque wrench as I have a spare one, but not sure...

 

[zkling]

hey guys, any thoughts on the questions I had?

Did you see my response above?

As far as what to add to your current setup. I'd say that you are going to be the best one that could show what you need.

I'd add a med size ball pein. Unless you do quite a bit of heavy work, I'd forget about the sledge. About the only time I use a sledge during portable work is to get the drums off a rusty car. I'd also add a set of metric combo wrenches, most common sizes.

For cutting, at least a utility knife, a pair of scissors and a razor blade holder for scraping.
The 3/8 torque wrench is really going to be a personal work type thing. Have you ran into a situation where you need it?

Beyond that, I would just take a mental note of what you need on a routine basis. It would be nice to have everything with you for convince, but the downside will be more stuff = more stuff to get lost, more to inventory, more weight, more volume.

 

[senor fozz]

I don't think you are thinking about a KRA59. Those are a minimum of 85lbs completely empty. That or you are alot stronger than you think you are

http://collectingsnapon.com/catalogs/catalogs.php?loggedin=0&catalogPage=4916

You're deduction is correct it is a KRA 59c. How much bigger is the KR59 from the KRA59c then. I was under the impression they just changed the model numbers over the years but it was the same overall dimensions.

 

[dave12b]

Great timing on this thread. I asked for portable box for Christmas. I've searched all over this forum looking for organization ideas. Perhaps someone could start a "show us your portable toolbox" thread for all the rally and cantilever tool boxes. Would be great to see pics of these workhorses.

Sent from my LG-LS720 using Tapatalk

 

[senor fozz]

Great timing on this thread. I asked for portable box for Christmas. I've searched all over this forum looking for organization ideas. Perhaps someone could start a "show us your portable toolbox" thread for all the rally and cantilever tool boxes. Would be great to see pics of these workhorses.

Sent from my LG-LS720 using Tapatalk

Check out the vintage tool box thread. There is alot of nice old portable boxes.

 

[dave12b]

Check out the vintage tool box thread. There is alot of nice old portable boxes.

Will do, thanks.

 

[GYPSY400]

I use one of these for portable jobs.. this and my 8 gallon compressor fit in the back of my jeep.
http://www.stanleytools.com/default...SDesc=FatMax®+4-in-1+Mobile+Work+Station

It might be a little too large to fit in a trunk of a car tho.

Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk

 

[cuengineer]

hey guys, any thoughts on the questions I had?

- a set of metric wrenches. but should I get combo wrenches? or double open end wrenches to get more sizes in fewer wrenches?
- I'm thinking of adding 2 different size adjustable wrenches that might cover something I don't cover with the standard wrench set above; thoughts?
- need a striking tool... should i add a ball pein hammer? or a 3lbs sledge? or?
- I need something for cutting... should i just add a utility knife? something else?
- torque wrenches... i was thinking of adding a 3/8-in 100 ft-lbs torque wrench as I have a spare one, but not sure...

I keep combination wrenches in my portable tool box. Also, 1 lb. ball pein hammer, utility knife, and large adjustable pliers. I have a larger size adjustable wrench but don't think ever have used it. NO torque wrench though. With the tools you mentioned, this should take care of most on the spot repairs.

One important item that I have learned to keep is my AAA card with 100 miles towing. Note that the AAA card does not require that it is your vehicle. This can be important if the serpentine belt breaks because of an a/c clutch problem.

 

[bimmerZ5]

thanks guys for the input... i've since added: 1/2-in dr ratchet and sockets (might play with this a bit as the Ko-Ken 1/2-in dr socket set duplicates a lot of what i have with 3/8-in and I'll probably try to find a way to consolidate later), 1/4-in & 3/8-in universal socket, folding hex(metric+sae) and torx keys, utility knife, scissors, pencil tire gauge, zip ties, safety glasses/mask/gloves, pickup magnet, screw/nut removal pliers (besides the intended purpose, i figure it would be useful to remove plastic rivets common in a lot of cars these days), flush cut pliers (for zip ties), inspection mirror (i had a spare), magnetic pickup tool, ...

still planning to add some more stuff... currently hunting for a good deal on the Snap-On HBBD16G for a striking tool. Have on order a 3pc adjustable wrench set from Gearwrench that I got with SYWR points.

BTW, on the adjustable wrench point... i've decided to not put any combo wrench set in the box and depend on the adjustable 3pc to cover my needs in that area. most of the time, I don't use wrenches as much as I use sockets, so if I do need it, i'm hoping that the adjustables will be enough.. the largest one goes up to 32mm. any words of wisdom against this idea?

i like the idea of extra hardware, but i don't even have that in my own shop other than random stuff left over from projects. i'll wait until i build up an inventory of hardware for my shop at home and then take some from that to put in the mobile tool box.

i've also been thinking of adding some sticks of anti-seize, steel epoxy putty, regular epoxy putty, plastic dial caliper...

i'm still pondering the idea of a torque wrench... i'm a bit obsessed with torquing things to spec, but i know it's not the end of the world if i can't.

right now, i've got about 1 and a half drawers of remaining space. the drawers are 17"x7" and 1-3/8" deep. some of that will be used by the 3pc adjustable wrenches and ball peen dead blow hammer when i get it. so, i'm getting close to full now... when it is full, that's it.

on the topic of breaker bar... totally agree... they are very useful and i have a few. but the most useful one to me is the 1/2-in drive 25" one that won't fit into this mobile tool chest. so, what do you guys do? add something to the back of the chest so you can hang it on the side or just pick one up on the way out when you're on the go? another possibility is for me to throw the W7150 and some impact sockets in another bag and go...

 

[ez-duzit]

Get a breaker bar that fits your kit. Then add a cheater pipe (that also fits your kit) to slip over the handle.

 

[John in OH]

Coincidentally, I posted a similar question here on GJ in mid-Dec.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=228203

Mine was directed more toward the box selection rather than the tools, but they both go hand-in-hand. My need is probably different than yours, but I think the best suggestion that I received was a portable toolbox built by permanently mounting a HF side cabinet on a HF two-wheel hand cart.



Lots of flexibility here with many drawers, easy portability (but not via a car!), small flat work surface, add trays to rear of cart for cans of oil, never-seize, penetrating oil, mount hangers for long prybars or breaker bars, easy to fit through doors, won't kill your back moving it around, etc. etc.

 

[jd_1138]

on the topic of breaker bar... totally agree... they are very useful and i have a few. but the most useful one to me is the 1/2-in drive 25" one that won't fit into this mobile tool chest. so, what do you guys do? add something to the back of the chest so you can hang it on the side or just pick one up on the way out when you're on the go? another possibility is for me to throw the W7150 and some impact sockets in another bag and go...

Just keep a 25" 1/2 drive breaker bar in your trunk -- even if it doesn't fit in the box. Put a 19mm socket on it and use it to loosen the lugs on your car or a customer's car. And it will be in there if you need it on a project for a friend/relative, too.

I keep one in every car. They are like $8 after coupon at Harbor Freight. One has an Ace Hardware 19mm socket, another has a Craftsman 19mm socket on it.

As for hardware, they sell those little plastic compartmentalized containers with some various nuts, bolts, washers, screws, wire connectors, etc.. Comes in handy and can save a trip to the store.

Another good thing to add is a small OBD scanner -- small and can save a lot of diagnostic time and hassle.

 

[fitz11]

the one you list i bought. returned! there is no lock for the drawers.... kinda defeats the purpose of portable, IMO. closed lid, drawers can still open and close. its nice wuality, ball bearing, etc...

i bought a nice 4 drawer at tractor supply. they also have a 3 drawer. the handle on the tractor supply box far exceeds any other brand. nice and thick for my big hand. most others are cheap hard, thin type plastic. stay away from the craftsman, it has cheap slides. dollar store type slides.

I just got the 4 drawer tractor supply box and it's awesome. I am starting to think about organization now.

Great timing on this thread. I asked for portable box for Christmas. I've searched all over this forum looking for organization ideas. Perhaps someone could start a "show us your portable toolbox" thread for all the rally and cantilever tool boxes. Would be great to see pics of these workhorses.

Sent from my LG-LS720 using Tapatalk

Done!
http://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3656626#post3656626

 

[bimmerZ5]

Get a breaker bar that fits your kit. Then add a cheater pipe (that also fits your kit) to slip over the handle.

Just keep a 25" 1/2 drive breaker bar in your trunk -- even if it doesn't fit in the box. Put a 19mm socket on it and use it to loosen the lugs on your car or a customer's car. And it will be in there if you need it on a project for a friend/relative, too.

I keep one in every car. They are like $8 after coupon at Harbor Freight. One has an Ace Hardware 19mm socket, another has a Craftsman 19mm socket on it.

As for hardware, they sell those little plastic compartmentalized containers with some various nuts, bolts, washers, screws, wire connectors, etc.. Comes in handy and can save a trip to the store.

Another good thing to add is a small OBD scanner -- small and can save a lot of diagnostic time and hassle.

Alright... you guys made me do it...


http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=232024