Advantages of Aluminum Tool Boxes

Exceptional Durability: Aluminum is renowned for its robust and long-lasting properties, capable of withstanding extensive wear and tear over many years. An aluminum tool box provides formidable protection against environmental elements such as water, sun, wind, and can endure even the harshest weather conditions.

Lightweight Advantage: Unlike other metal tool boxes, aluminum tool boxes are notably lightweight, facilitating effortless transportation and mobility. They won't add unnecessary bulk or weight, making it a breeze to maneuver when the need arises.

Versatile Storage: Aluminum tool boxes excel in the storage and transport of a wide array of tools, including heavy-duty equipment. They are available in various shapes, sizes, and designs, ensuring you can easily select one that perfectly aligns with your specific needs.

Enhanced Security: An aluminum tool box offers heightened security for your valuable tools and equipment, shielding them from theft or misplacement. The combination of durable materials and a sturdy locking mechanism ensures your items remain safely stored, even when you're not present.

Aesthetic Appeal: Aluminum tool boxes boast sleek and modern designs that add an attractive element to your workshop or vehicle. This not only impresses clients and customers who visit your workspace but also simplifies the process of locating specific tools with just a quick glance.

In conclusion, investing in an aluminum tool box is a wise decision that can significantly enhance your work experience. With its unbeatable durability, versatility, security features, and aesthetic appeal, it becomes an essential tool for anyone seeking efficient organization of their tools and equipment.

Types of Truck Tool Boxes

Truck tool boxes come in various styles and configurations to cater to different needs. Whether you own a pickup truck, service bed, or trailer, there's no one-size-fits-all solution, and that's a good thing. Each truck owner has unique requirements, and we're here to assist you in choosing the right storage solution. We'll explore styles, materials, and discuss pros and cons along the way. Let's get started!

Materials: 

While most pickup truck tool boxes are traditionally made from diamond-plate aluminum or checkplate aluminum sheets, modern options include powder-coated steel and even plastic. These boxes can vary from basic polished aluminum to factory powder-coated finishes in matte or gloss black or white, depending on the manufacturer.

1. Crossover/Saddle Box:

Crossover tool boxes are the most common choice for truck owners. They span the truck bed and rest on the bed rails.

Installation is straightforward, typically using a single J-bolt on each side, securing the box to the bed rail with a washer and nut.

They typically range from 69" to 72" in width, offering versatility but requiring attention to fitment.

2. Side Mount Tool Box:

Popular among professionals who work from their trucks, such as electricians, plumbers, and contractors.

These boxes sit on each side of the truck bed and work well in combination with a crossover tool box.

Side mount boxes rest on the bed rails and extend downward into the truck bed, resembling an inverted "L" shape from the side.

Available in various lengths, usually about 12" front to back at the top and 8" at the bottom, with options for single or double latches.

3. Topside Tool Box:

Similar to side mount tool boxes but sit exclusively on top of the bed rails.

Instead of a lid, they have cabinet-style doors that open downward, providing easy access.

Top mount tool boxes come in lengths from 40" to 96", with varying heights (typically 16-18") and depths (12-18").

They offer ample storage while preserving bed space for materials and equipment.

4. Chest Tool Boxes: 

Chest tool boxes encompass a wide category of tool storage solutions available in various sizes and shapes. Essentially, they are versatile boxes that can fit wherever there's space. Whether you require a box for your truck bed beneath a tonneau cover, a job site, or any location where a lockable box is needed, a chest box might be the perfect choice.

5. Trailer/Tongue Chest Tool Boxes: 

These uniquely shaped trapezoidal boxes are designed to fit in front of trailers, specifically where the frame converges to form the tongue. While standard chest tool boxes can fit inside or on the trailer floor, tongue boxes are tailored to the front area, preventing interference during tight turns. They come in different sizes to suit your needs.

6. Underbed/Underbody Tool Boxes: 

Ideal for service beds and flatbeds, underbody tool boxes maximize storage by mounting beneath the truck. Available in lengths ranging from 24 to 72 inches, these boxes can have one or two cabinets, depending on their size.

7. Wheel Well, Fender Well, Pork Chop Tool Boxes: 
Designed for individuals who notice the wasted space behind their truck's wheel wells, pork chop tool boxes are the perfect solution. These quirky-shaped boxes are taller at the back and shorter in the front to fit over the wheel well. Some versions are essentially bins with lids, while others ingeniously incorporate drawers at the bottom, accessible from the rear of the truck, in addition to top bin storage.

8. Storage Drawers: 

Storage drawers can be classified into two main categories: commercial utility drawers and DECKED systems. Commercial utility drawers are metal enclosures with slide-out drawers, commonly found in vans but also suitable for pickup trucks. DECKED systems are in a league of their own, specially designed to fit perfectly in specific pickup truck beds. They form a platform on top, capable of holding up to 2,000 pounds, and include two sliding drawers, each with a 200-pound capacity. The top can be equipped with T-slot tracks or core trax rails for accessories like racks or load lock rings.

9. Foot Locker Tool Box: 

Foot lockers are essentially small chest boxes equipped with handles on the sides, making them portable if you have the strength to carry a loaded one. These lockers can be mounted to the front of flatbed trailers, providing a secure place for items like ratchet straps, gloves, and rigging supplies.

10. Transfer Tank Tool Box Combo: 

Designed for those who require both a fuel transfer tank and lockable storage for gear during fieldwork. Typically configured as an L-shaped transfer tank with a chest box attached on top, these combos offer fuel volumes ranging from 75 to 100 gallons for Class-3 combustible fluids like diesel.

In conclusion, truck tool boxes come in a variety of styles and size to suit your specific needs. Whether you opt for a crossover, side mount, or topside box, carefully consider your requirements and available space to make the right choice for your truck.the multitude of options for pickup truck tool boxes might seem overwhelming, but we're here to assist you. our expert sales staff will gladly help you find the perfect storage solution for your truck.

How to Properly Maintain Your Truck Toolbox

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your truck toolbox in excellent condition. Follow these steps for effective maintenance:

1. Cleaning:

Regularly clean the toolbox with a mixture of soap and water, ensuring a thorough rinse. Avoid abrasive cleaning products that may scratch the metal surface.

Enhance cleaning by adding a waterless hand cleaner and degreaser, such as Zep, to the wash water. This helps dissolve grease and residue for easy removal.

2. Protection from the Elements:

When not in use, store the toolbox in a dry, covered area to shield it from rain, snow, and environmental elements that can lead to corrosion.

Modern truck toolboxes often incorporate features like diamond plating on aluminum and heavy-duty powder-coating to provide extended protection against the elements, contributing to their durability.

3. Rust Prevention:

In damp or humid environments, where rust is a concern, consider applying a protective coating. Options include non-abrasive automotive wax or silicone spray to prevent rust formation.

4. Repairing Dents and Scratches:

If your toolbox sustains dents or scratches, you can restore its appearance by lightly sanding the damaged area with sandpaper and then applying touch-up paint.

Ensure that the paint color matches the original color of the toolbox for a seamless repair.

5. Lubrication:

Maintain the toolbox's functionality by regularly lubricating hinges and latches with a light oil. This ensures smooth operation.

Periodically inspect and tighten features such as knobs, bolts, screws, straps, and locks. Look for signs of wear, corrosion, or fatigue to address any issues promptly.

By following these maintenance steps, you can extend the lifespan of your truck toolbox and keep it in optimal condition for years to come.