Tool Cabinet Suggestion

[bobcatdan]

One last idea, do live where there are Menards? I'm not one to recommand import boxes, but how about the 36" Masterfoce. It's only 18" deep, but the drawers are wider then a 40". It's $350, add side boxes to both sides, I think they are about $200 a piece and add a plywood top for a worktop. I'm trying.

 

[DeereTech]

I have looked at the menards boxes online, and I really like them...a lot. I think they look like excellent boxes for what they cost. But like I said before I live in MD and the closest Menards is in Ohio...its something like a 9 hour drive one way.

I would love to have a box if they would ship to a residential address. But I'm pretty sure they only ship to store.

Thanks again Bobcat.

Sorry if I seem difficult.

 

[DeereTech]

Well, the nearest Harbor Freight is roughly an hour and a half away. I called them up last night and they did not have the box in stock...nor did they know when they would get one. All they could tell me was to call every Wednesday because that is the day their truck comes in. Great customer service

 

[bimmerZ5]

Well, the nearest Harbor Freight is roughly an hour and a half away. I called them up last night and they did not have the box in stock...nor did they know when they would get one. All they could tell me was to call every Wednesday because that is the day their truck comes in. Great customer service

actually, at most stores, you need to call a day or two AFTER the truck delivers... otherwise they haven't had time to unpack and inventory stuff and put it on display. i speak from experience dealing with HFT.

 

[bimmerZ5]

also, for a lot less money, i've been very happy with this 72" :

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=106647

 

[DeereTech]

I called 2 other harbor freights. One was able to tell me that they would have a bunch in on Wednesday and that they could reserve one for me, the other was able to tell me that they would not have any for at least a week.

I think I'll just wait for them to stock it. It's just getting to the point where I really need it...

The 72" chest looks nice, but I think it might be a little long to push around every day.

Talked to the snap on man again today and he has nothing used for $2,000 or less. Is that typical? I thought I could have found a KRA for that price.

 

[bimmerZ5]

I called 2 other harbor freights. One was able to tell me that they would have a bunch in on Wednesday and that they could reserve one for me, the other was able to tell me that they would not have any for at least a week.

I think I'll just wait for them to stock it. It's just getting to the point where I really need it...

The 72" chest looks nice, but I think it might be a little long to push around every day.

Talked to the snap on man again today and he has nothing used for $2,000 or less. Is that typical? I thought I could have found a KRA for that price.

when dealing with HFT, I'll believe it when they can tell me they are looking at the item in front of them. Just last week, they said inventory system showed 41 in stock, and then when i went to the store they couldn't locate any of the supposed 41 in stock! the location on the shelf where the item was suppose to be was completely cleared out. WTF? This happens all the time... and unless your local HFT runs a really tight ship, it usually takes them a few days to make available the items that were delivered by truck. So, if I want to know something is actually available, I always make sure they are looking at it in from of them when I'm speaking to them on the phone, otherwise I don't believe they have it.

Yeah, the 72" might be a little long if you're going to roll it around a lot. It does have nice casters on it, but only two on the right side lock. It rolls around easily even with a few hundred pounds loaded inside. But, 72" inches is pretty long...

 

[DeereTech]

Well, having been unable to get to HF, Ive still been shopping around. I have one last question. I found another box that I think could suit the bill, but I can't find much feedback on it. Its a Kennedy 13 drawer roller cabinet. MADE IN USA.

It can be seen here:

http://www.alexgs.com/product/kennedy-46005.html

It's more than I want to spend, but I like the drawer configuration and sizes. Also, I like the matte finish. Its a "benchmark" which appears to be their top of the line box. What do you guys think and does anyone have experience with Kennedy?

 

[wornoutoldman]

Check this out:

http://www.strictlytoolboxes.com/all-toolbox/montezuma-tool-boxes-56-11-drawer-tool-cabinet.html

Free Shipping too!

 

[DeereTech]

I like it, I wish they offered it in a 13 drawer combo though. Maybe eliminate the 8" drawers and put 2-4" drawers in place of it. I would definitely go for it.

 

[bobcatdan]

If you can swing the Kennedy, go for it. Napa sells that box under the Homark big dawg name if that helps at.

 

[DeereTech]

Repost of greasemonkey44 post #15?

 

[DeereTech]

Bobcat...are they comparable to a kra box? I really like the drawer layout, just want to make sure they're worth the extra money. Unfortunately, I will not be able to see one before ordering if I end up going with it.

 

[Outlawmws]

Well, having been unable to get to HF, Ive still been shopping around. I have one last question. I found another box that I think could suit the bill, but I can't find much feedback on it. Its a Kennedy 13 drawer roller cabinet. MADE IN USA.

It can be seen here:

http://www.alexgs.com/product/kennedy-46005.html

It's more than I want to spend, but I like the drawer configuration and sizes. Also, I like the matte finish. Its a "benchmark" which appears to be their top of the line box. What do you guys think and does anyone have experience with Kennedy?

Kennedy typically makes first class boxes, and while I don't have experience with that particular box, I do have 13 Kennedy boxes in my collection, including 2 rollers, an intermediate, two regular boxes and the rest are tops of different sizes and configs. All are excellent tools boxes, and wear well. (the 2 rollers are from the late 50's maybe early 60's and are still great boxes even today.)

 

[bobcatdan]

I would rate that box maybe then a kra. Kra's are the standard that all boxes 40" and under should be rated. The one you are looking at I thinks is a "Benchmark", Kennedy's best line of boxes. It may not be a krl, but I'm sure that box will last the rest of your life. Kennedy made cornwell boxes for years before cornwell switched to waterloo. There are several guys on here with the older boxes and say they are top notch. If you can swing it, do it!

 

[gabeancounter]

Went by northern tool this weekend. Noticed the H2PRO series boxes when I walked in the door. These boxes are much nicer than HF boxes. The top and bottom togther make a great setup.
http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200494287_200494287

 

[DeereTech]

For anyone interested there is a pretty good price on this craftsman right now:

http://www.craftsman.com/shc/s/p_10155_12602_00959624000P

 

[bobcatdan]

Craftsman tool boxes are not what they used to be. Based on when I worked at a Deere dealer, the boxed rolled around a lot and was loaded heavy. Go with the Kennedy, they also have a line called the maintance pro that are designed to be pushed around plants all day. Those are only 20" deep. Auto shops are one thing where your box next to never moves, but if you are in an enverioment where to box racks up the miles, you shouldn't cheap out.

 

[DeereTech]

I didn't intend to purchase that box, just putting that out there for anyone who may be interested.

You're dead on about how the box will be used bobcat! I desperately need one, I'm just having trouble biting the bullet. Money is tight and I can't afford to second guess my decision.

 

[DeereTech]

I bought the Harbor Freight box last night for $699. I was a little skeptical as the drawers felt light and the slides were a little sloppy. I unloaded it at work this morning and was pleased with the packaging. It slid around quite a bit in my truck (forgot my ratchet straps) and while the wood and cardboard took a little damage, the box itself stayed in perfect shape. I then found that I had to cut the drawer liners to fit--they came in a roll. So needless to say, I didn't get all of my tools swapped over because I had work to be done. I did get the top two drawers semi-done, one for all of my sockets, ratchets, etc and the other for my hammers. While neither drawer is completely filled, the little weight in them definitely gave them a dampened, quality feel. It is a big improvement over the black 4 drawer HF cart I previously had. The work surface is a dream to have and I actually have a place to lay the tools I'm currently using without making clutter. I brought the drawer liners home to cut so they'll be ready for Monday. When I get all of my tools swapped over I'll be sure to take pictures and post them up. Thank you everyone for your opinions. If anyone has any questions about the box, I will do my best to answer them.

Oh and it blows the Craftsman box in post #57 away. A kid at work has one and this box makes it look like a toy. Well worth the money!

 

[SpiderGearsMan]

talk about another beaten to death subject ..firestarter

 

[DeereTech]

huh? Sorry, I'm new here. Didn't mean to do or say anything offensive.

 

[Butters]

I wouldn't worry about it.

And congratulations on the new box!

 

[DeereTech]

Thanks Butters

 

[Scuderia-F1]

I bought the Harbor Freight box last night for $699. I was a little skeptical as the drawers felt light and the slides were a little sloppy. I unloaded it at work this morning and was pleased with the packaging. It slid around quite a bit in my truck (forgot my ratchet straps) and while the wood and cardboard took a little damage, the box itself stayed in perfect shape. I then found that I had to cut the drawer liners to fit--they came in a roll. So needless to say, I didn't get all of my tools swapped over because I had work to be done. I did get the top two drawers semi-done, one for all of my sockets, ratchets, etc and the other for my hammers. While neither drawer is completely filled, the little weight in them definitely gave them a dampened, quality feel. It is a big improvement over the black 4 drawer HF cart I previously had. The work surface is a dream to have and I actually have a place to lay the tools I'm currently using without making clutter. I brought the drawer liners home to cut so they'll be ready for Monday. When I get all of my tools swapped over I'll be sure to take pictures and post them up. Thank you everyone for your opinions. If anyone has any questions about the box, I will do my best to answer them.

Oh and it blows the Craftsman box in post #57 away. A kid at work has one and this box makes it look like a toy. Well worth the money!

Congrats to the new box!
Looking forward to the pics.

 

[Microship]

Has anyone here seen the John Deere stainless 26" top box? I'm still on a quest for a stainless chest for my boat, and keep coming back to the Viper... but there are some pretty convincing negative reviews. Here is the Deere product page.

The hard part, of course, is actually seeing these things before making the decision... my environment will be rough (movement and corrosive air) so I don't want anything too flimsy...

Thanks!
Steve

EDIT: I just spoke with a John Deere dealer and he says they are made by Mighty M and he's never seen one.

 

[bobcatdan]

I can't coment on the Deere stainless box, but the other boxes are just rebadge waterloo. If you work for a Deere dealer, you can get a pretty damn good deal on them. For everybody eles, way over priced for what you get.

 

[Microship]

Thanks... this is really frustrating. I need a 26" wide box that sucketh not, and that is proving to be a challenge. I called a Sears down in Seattle to find out about the Viper and the guy barely knew what tool boxes were... the big box stores are no help... and I've been looking online at Gerstner and other wood options. How are the green ones from Grizzly? I know stainless is mostly an illusion; if my old shop Kobalt is the norm, than it's just the veneer anyway with painted steel bodies and raw steel slides. I just want something robust and corrosion-resistant (normally it's a dry environment, but it IS a boat... inevitably I'll go galumphing through in wet foulies and scatter salt water droplets... not to mention spindrift and general humidity).

In another thread about this, someone suggested I carry the theme of the rackmount lab console with a Middle Atlantic cabinet and locking rack drawers... this is probably the most elegant solution but is pushing $1K. I keep imagining that a 26" chest is out there, and it's getting timely as we're laminating the desktop next week with a wing devoted to supporting the tool cabinet. (We're embedding a sheet of steel under the laminate in the central work area to allow magnetic fixturing... I'll post about this when it's done!).

Anyway, sorry for the thread hijack - it came up when I was researching the Deere. Thanks for the reply, bobcatdan!

Steve

 

[bimmerZ5]

Thanks... this is really frustrating. I need a 26" wide box that sucketh not, and that is proving to be a challenge. I called a Sears down in Seattle to find out about the Viper and the guy barely knew what tool boxes were... the big box stores are no help... and I've been looking online at Gerstner and other wood options. How are the green ones from Grizzly? I know stainless is mostly an illusion; if my old shop Kobalt is the norm, than it's just the veneer anyway with painted steel bodies and raw steel slides. I just want something robust and corrosion-resistant (normally it's a dry environment, but it IS a boat... inevitably I'll go galumphing through in wet foulies and scatter salt water droplets... not to mention spindrift and general humidity).

In another thread about this, someone suggested I carry the theme of the rackmount lab console with a Middle Atlantic cabinet and locking rack drawers... this is probably the most elegant solution but is pushing $1K. I keep imagining that a 26" chest is out there, and it's getting timely as we're laminating the desktop next week with a wing devoted to supporting the tool cabinet. (We're embedding a sheet of steel under the laminate in the central work area to allow magnetic fixturing... I'll post about this when it's done!).

Anyway, sorry for the thread hijack - it came up when I was researching the Deere. Thanks for the reply, bobcatdan!

Steve

I'm not sure how you define doesn't ****. to some that means made in USA, to others it means something else. To others it might mean lots of shallow drawers, to some it might mean more deeper drawers. if you want stainless, have you looked at csps?

http://www.amex-csps.com/toolchests/index.html

i'm currently fixing a csps toolbox that I think might have dropped out of a truck cause it's really beat up. but in spite of the abuse, none of the damage got to the insides and all the drawers work smoothly. it is 304 stainless, not the cheaper stainless with no nickel content. the deeper drawers all have double sliders, all ball bearing slides. so to me, csps seems to make a decent quality box, but they are made in Taiwan.

There is also the HFT option:

http://www.harborfreight.com/26-8-drawer-roller-cabinet-with-8-drawer-top-chest-67831.html

I like that one for the shallow drawers.

As far as viper is concerned, i have a suspicion that they may go out of business soon. I believe they are a local company in my area and they've been doing some pretty desperate marketing campaigns locally, practically begging locals to come by and they are ready to make a deal. I've seen their stuff at sears and they seem OK, but they seem to have a lot of damaged returns; I'm not sure if that's because they are a bit fragile or they need to change the freight company they use.

 

[dcm223]

Thanks... this is really frustrating. I need a 26" wide box that sucketh not, and that is proving to be a challenge. I called a Sears down in Seattle to find out about the Viper and the guy barely knew what tool boxes were... the big box stores are no help... and I've been looking online at Gerstner and other wood options. How are the green ones from Grizzly? I know stainless is mostly an illusion; if my old shop Kobalt is the norm, than it's just the veneer anyway with painted steel bodies and raw steel slides. I just want something robust and corrosion-resistant (normally it's a dry environment, but it IS a boat... inevitably I'll go galumphing through in wet foulies and scatter salt water droplets... not to mention spindrift and general humidity).

In another thread about this, someone suggested I carry the theme of the rackmount lab console with a Middle Atlantic cabinet and locking rack drawers... this is probably the most elegant solution but is pushing $1K. I keep imagining that a 26" chest is out there, and it's getting timely as we're laminating the desktop next week with a wing devoted to supporting the tool cabinet. (We're embedding a sheet of steel under the laminate in the central work area to allow magnetic fixturing... I'll post about this when it's done!).

Anyway, sorry for the thread hijack - it came up when I was researching the Deere. Thanks for the reply, bobcatdan!

Steve

The Professional and SHD series boxes from SPG International seem to be well made.
Company website with more info: http://www.spginternational.com/en/Company.aspx

Sears sells the Pro and Value series boxes with free shipping.
http://www.sears.com/international-27inch-professional-5-drawer-top-chest-blue/p-00933473000P?prdNo=15

I’m going to buy one of the Pro series bottom boxes.

 

[Microship]

Thanks so much for the input... you've provided new info. Walking-in-the-front-door web searches for this sort of thing are nigh impossible, and there's no brick-and-mortar with a decent selection anywhere nearby. I was not aware of International... though there appear to be big differences between Value and Pro series. Other threads here alerted me to SOME of the Griplatch ones as well...

I get the feeling that quality/price ratios in the 26" size class are quite different from the larger ones... considered more entry-level stuff. For my boat, it's just a space constraint, so I'm stuck with that as much as I'd love to go larger. I'm less enamored of stainless other than for looks; it offers little that a good powder-coat won't do when it comes to corrosion protection, and bigger issues are overall quality, gauge, weight capacities, decent latches, etc.

Thanks again... I'll let you know what I decide, and continue to welcome suggestions.

Cheers from S/V Nomadness,
Steve

 

[Souljer]

Hi,

Would be very interested in the original posters experience with his new Harbor Freight tool box.

After a few months how have things been working for you? Is the box holding up to your daily needs? Anything you don't like or would change?

 

[bimmerZ5]

Thanks so much for the input... you've provided new info. Walking-in-the-front-door web searches for this sort of thing are nigh impossible, and there's no brick-and-mortar with a decent selection anywhere nearby. I was not aware of International... though there appear to be big differences between Value and Pro series. Other threads here alerted me to SOME of the Griplatch ones as well...

I get the feeling that quality/price ratios in the 26" size class are quite different from the larger ones... considered more entry-level stuff. For my boat, it's just a space constraint, so I'm stuck with that as much as I'd love to go larger. I'm less enamored of stainless other than for looks; it offers little that a good powder-coat won't do when it comes to corrosion protection, and bigger issues are overall quality, gauge, weight capacities, decent latches, etc.

Thanks again... I'll let you know what I decide, and continue to welcome suggestions.

Cheers from S/V Nomadness,
Steve

Steve,

Have you looked at the Trinity offering? Available at Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006JJNHWY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I just noticed they rate their drawers for 160lbs each!! And 2000lbs for the entire 27" top+bottom combo... I suspect it's very sturdy if they dare rate the weight capacity that high... I can't even think of how to fill a 2" drawer 25" wide up to 160lbs!

 

[Microship]

Follow-up: I went to Sears and played with GripLatch. Much too wimpy (beer-can-like, I believe someone said). Also, the lid had no gas springs...

They had a new Montezuma product, a 26" top chest (not crossover). I liked the feel, it was $100 less, and there is room to drill the side rails for ball-detents to lock drawers individually if needed. It has 7 drawers (top ones side by side).

The weird thing about this is that Montezuma appears not to have heard of it... the product is not on their website, and when I wrote them about this, they said: "Sometimes companies order products with their own configuration which may vary from the original item. While it may be branded Montezuma it also may not be exactly the same and we do not have any specs on these since we do not process them at our facility." This was followed by a link to their 26" crossover product. I guess this means I should remove the logo... *grin*

All very strange, but it looks like it will do the job. Thanks for the input here and on the thread that I started last year (sailboat tool chest).

Steve