Buyers Guide to Tool Boxes for Trucks
In buying a toolbox for your truck, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, what do you intend to keep in it? I tend to carry as a minimum a wheelbrace and a suitably rated tow strap, along with basic tools such as a socket set. Depending on what you use your truck for, you may want to carry more equipment or less. In other words, you need to begin by amassing your tools and working out how large a box you will need.
Your next decision will be based on whether your truck has an open pickup bed or some form of lockable load cover. If you have a pickup, you will need a box that is weatherproof and lockable, and you will need to secure it to your truck bed. A simple way to do this is to drill through the bottom of the box and the load bed, then bolt it down. Obviously you will need to rustproof these holes, painting any bare metal edges and possibly using silicone sealant to waterproof the holes. Check that you can still access any removable panels or hatches that you will need to open for routine maintenance work before drilling anything.
For those with a closed truck, you will still need to secure the box in place but this can be done using existing tie-down points and a couple of ratchet straps. Do not be tempted to leave it loose, as in a collision or even worse a roll it will turn into a wrecking ball. People have been seriously injured or even killed by loose cargo in accidents, and a couple of inexpensive straps could well save your life in such an event. You may still want a lockable box, depending on your locale and how confident you are in the lock mechanism on your load bed cover or back door. Many lock mechanisms are remarkably flimsy and could be defeated in seconds with hand tools, so be aware of this risk.
Having decided what you want to carry and where you want to install it, the time comes to look for a box. I have had great success with army surplus ammunition boxes. These are usually steel, have a weatherproof seal to the lid, and can have a tab welded on to allow them to be padlocked if they don't have one already. If you find a good supplier then they will be inexpensive and in excellent condition barring a little cosmetic damage. Larger boxes can double as a bench if removed from the vehicle.
An alternative would be to seek out a commercially-made tool box. In doing so, you should judge the design on its merits rather than the brand name. Look at the thickness of the metal or plastic, the quality of the paintwork and finish, and the strength of fittings such as hinges or catches. Look for water-resistant seals on lids, and a lid design that curves over the top edges of the box to make water run off. As with many things, you should buy the best you can afford now as it will last longer. If it does not come with a lock or padlock, you will need to find a suitable one at the same time. Look for one that is a close fit, as this will make it difficult for would-be thieves to attack the shackle.
Whichever you choose, ask around for advice. See what your friends are using and how well it stands up to daily use.
