r/toolboxmods

So I got this 26 in toolbox from my local tool store a while ago and my plan was to use it as my "do it all" box as i'm a part time mobile mechanic, however i'm facing 2 dilemmas here. For once, I have no clue how to properly organize it, mainly my sockets. It feels very messy and I would like some magnetic rails but I can't seem to find any good ones. Second, I'm starting to think the box is a bit to big for mobile work, as I have to carry it to and from my garage to my car when loading / unloading, and I don't feel like I need all the space. So my 2 questions are; should i downsize to smth like a 20in box, and how do i properly organize my tools? Any tips and tricks? Fyi the box has 4 drawers and an opening top, the bottom one being slightly deeper than the rest.
Thanks in advance

I am currently in school to be an automotive technician. I haven’t decided what route I want to take whether it be light heavy specialized or whatever. But I’m wondering. What’s a good brand for a solid stand up rolling tool box that is worth the money and won’t necessarily break the bank. I’ve heard controversial things about snap and Matco. I understand their tools are great but from what I’ve seen is they’re overpriced for what they are. I have a lot of tools currently but nothing super expensive as i can’t afford anything crazy right now. I don’t want to be the guy (and I won’t be) to owe 25k the snap on guy. So I’m wondering what’s a better alternative?

Anyone on here use j bolts to secure their tool box? I got a Kobalt tool box and am wondering if j bolts will be enough to secure it.

Got a new (to me) Kennedy 1022 cantilever toolbox and want to line the bottoms to dampen the sound as well as protect both box and tools a bit. I’m currently a bit confused on what material to use as a liner. The catalogue from 1989 has felt, foam, and cork listed

I kind of steered away from felt as I feel it will move around unless I glue it down which I’d prefer not to do, also tools would slide quite a bit on it imo

So then I’m between cork and the liner foams. I’d also prefer to buy something in person

For the foam or normal toolbox liner I was thinking perhaps the Harbor Freight option. Unless the Home Depot husky or Lowe’s craftsman options are significantly better. For the cork I was actually thinking maybe some gasket material like this felpro cork rubber (they have 3/32 and 1/16)

Big questions are which is best in y’all’s opinion. Any other materials I should consider? Also will these degrade and stick to the bottom or damage the original interior paint? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Edit: adding a question for when I online it, should I just do the bottom or should I kind of creep up the sides as well, perhaps like an inch or so?

Ordered a new box. Truck guy said about 6 damn weeks for it to get dropped at my shop. Is this normal? All my co workers say that shouldn't take that long. My reps kinda an ass so maybe he's just being an ass but that seems long

dont know if im in the right place, but here is my story.

I ve been using a Matco 6s triple bay box for 12 years and i just want something new, i ve looked at the Icon tool boxes and while i do like them, i dislike the added hassle should any warranty needs come up, Matco and Snap on ( ive had both) dont blink when i need new slides, or a lock shits the bed. they order it and the reps i ve had are happy to help with the actual replacement.

i mainly want a hutch and a locker, gaining tools over the years the old 77 inch 6s is filling up. to buy a matching locker and hutch for my current box will run around 10 all said and done.

but i can get a screaming (to me anyways) deal on a whole new setup. looking at a new 6s rollcab with a hutch and locker for right around 22k after tax (but not including total interest)

this setup with no promo/discount/trade in would run about 38k after tax (again not figuring interest)

yeah yeah its alot of money for a box, but my current box has had drawers opened and stood on, and multiple drawers get opened and shut about 1000 times a week, and ive had one drawer slide get jammed up and it was likely my fault (spraying the grinder sparks towards it with drawers opened.

for the guys who have spent money on big name brand boxes, would you do it again?

for clarity, of all the boxes i ve had in my 15 year career, ive never owned a new one. ive always just bought cheap trade ins.

I'm starting my own mobile mechanics business and I'm trying to figure out what is going to be the most optimal tool box to use for tool storage. The car I'll be using is a 2008 Jeep Patriot and I've done a rear seat and boot delete and put down a metal platform instead. I can't really find anything that suits my needs and I'm trying to avoid the pack out box kits as much as possible. TIA