Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/150744
Cattleman TOOL BOXES: CROSSBED MATERIALS & FINISHES Today aluminum and steel are the materials of choice for the majority of toolboxes. High-end versions are showing up in stainless steel, while poly-formed plastics are coming in at the opposite end of the toolbox spectrum. Steel is less expensive, and, in some brands, stronger than aluminum. The key to a good steel box is the finish: If it's poor, there'll be rust issues in short order. What most contractors are going to find the best value are the heavy-duty aluminum models. They are much more expensive than entry-level or consumerlevel toolboxes. But they will last for years without issue. When it comes to finishes, that's generally a matter of personal taste. Black looks nice, but in the heat of summer it will bake whatever is inside the toolbox. Aluminum, polished or brushed, keeps summer heat at bay better than black. But it will show signs of light corrosion if not kept maintained. Diamondpattern aluminum is sturdier, but a lot harder to keep polished. Powder-coated surfaces are only as good as the prep work done before the coating is sprayed on and baked. Good powder-coatings are hard to beat when done right. Also pay attention to the toolbox's height above the bed. Yes, high-top toolboxes allow you to store the same amount as a toolbox that may sit on the floor, while leaving more underbox space to carry longer items in the bed. But they do block some of the view out the rear window. OTHER CONSDERTIONS Other items to consider are how the box is mounted, the type of lid supports used, and the type of internal cargo management. Toolboxes that use "J"-hooks to mount it to the bed rail are the most common and least expensive. They allow the box to be installed without drilling holes in the bedrails (an important consideration if the truck is being leased or you are worried about resale value.) Clamp-style installations are also popular. They don't take much more time in the installation process, but are easier on the bed rails. Whatever you do, don't use self-tapping lag bolts or screws to mount the toolbox. They are more likely to tear loose from the bed rails that either "J"-hooks or clamps in severe use. Lid support is also an item to think about. You don't want to hold up the lid with one hand while you rummage around in the box or try to store tools and gear. Good toolboxes have strong pneumatic struts holding up the lid(s). Looks for the mounting design and check how strong the mounting brackets are and how they are attached. Sealing from the weather is an even bigger concern. Look for boxes that have channels to drain moisture away form the interior – and double-sealed gaskets around the lids. Make sure the latches are sealed as well. Water inside a toolbox is the last thing you want to find. Think about toolbox lighting, too. A good toolbox design will accept interior lighting. Remember, choose a toolbox by considering how the bed is going to be used and what you'll be storing inside the toolbox. They should complement, not compete against, each other. And if you have – or are going to add – a tonneau cover or bed cap, get a toolbox that is designed for such use. The Cargo Buddy from Cattleman Heavy Duty Truck Accessories will give you more space in the bed of your truck. Built from custom expanded steel, the steel rack base and solidbead-welded frame basket can carry cargo, tools and gear while mounted in the two-inch receiver hitch off the back end of your truck, leaving the truck bed free for other equipment. www.cattlemanhd.com UWS Truck Accessories UWS's most popular toolbox box, the TBS-69, features stainless steel locks for security and a fully foamed lid that creates a rigid wall between outer aluminum layers to help prevent bending or warping. The 0.063-inch aluminum one-piece tub supports heavy loads and prevents leakage. The company also offers its ProGrade PGS-S70 Aluminum Truck Box, built extra tough with a 14-ga steel tub. A quick-pull handle for easy one-hand access and key lock protection is also offered. uswta.com; (800) 432-4685 Highway Products Highway Products offers a multitude of storage products for tools and gear including the new "Leopard" Gull Wing Toolboxes. They are built using 1/8-inch aluminum and use theft-resistant T-handle stainless steel locks. These boxes also feature black powder-coat, shaved diamonds and welded rope loops on the front for cargo ties downs. 800toolbox.com; (800) 866-5269 114 PROPICKUP Big Book 2013 ProPickup_2013BB_Tool Boxes Crossbed.indd 114 8/6/13 10:37 AM