Tools and Materials
Tools
Materials
Rubber padding
- Screws
How to Install Truck Toolbox: Step-By-Step Guide
You can install the truck tool box using mounting hardware. Here are the detailed instructions explaining how to install truck tool box:
Find a toolbox that best fits your needs. Measure the area where you plan to install the toolbox. Check the manufacturer's instructions to see if the toolbox is compatible with your truck model. Some popular toolboxes include:
- Crossover toolbox: A crossover truck toolbox usually sits behind the cab. It does not touch the bed floor.
- Underbody toolbox: It is mounted under the truck bed in commercial trucks. It is best for those who don’t want to lose the bed space.
- Top-mount toolbox: It is fixed on the top of the truck bed's sides. This toolbox also does not occupy the bed floor space.
- Side-mount toolbox: A side-mount toolbox runs along the side rails of the truck bed. You can access the tools without climbing into the truck.
Before attaching toolbox to truck, brush away all the dust and dirt from the installation area. Use a cleaner to clean the truck bed area. Make sure you remove all the grease and any debris. Use a rust-remover to clean the rusted surfaces.
When installing the side-mount toolbox, ensure it does not obstruct other truck functions.
Since most toolboxes are made of metal, they can scratch the truck surface. Add rubber padding to your truck's bed. It will also prevent any noises when you drive over uneven ground. Cut the rubber padding roll with a utility knife.
Use a utility knife with care. Its sharp edge can cause injuries. After use, store it properly inside a case or box.
Place the toolbox in your selected location. Confirm that the lid is opening freely at this position. Take help of someone to position the toolbox correctly. Mark the drill holes when you’re satisfied with the alignment.
Check if your truck has pre-drilled holes for toolboxes.
Use a power drill to make holes at the marked places. Skip this step if your truck has pre-drilled holes. You need not follow this step if your toolbox comes with a J-hook.
Wear safety glasses when drilling holes. Check to avoid any wires, cables or other parts of the truck before drilling.
Toolboxes often include screws and other mounting hardware in their packaging.
- Toolbox with bolts: Insert the included bolts or screws through the toolbox and holes you created. Secure the bolts with washers. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the bolts.
- Toolbox with J-hook: Slide the J-hooks under the bed rail lip. Insert bolts through the toolbox and attach them to J-hooks. Tighten the bolts with a wrench. Use a washer to keep J-hooks from sliding out of place.
Once you’ve tightened the bolts, check the stability of the toolbox. Move it to confirm it is not wobbling. Check the connection and tighten the bolts if needed. Recheck the lid to see if it is opening and closing freely.
Many toolboxes are already weatherproof. If yours is not, consider applying a weatherproof seal. Take the seal and secure it along the edges of the toolbox. Close the space between the truck and toolbox completely. This will also help prevent dust from accumulating in that space.
Wipe the toolbox clean from the inside using a soft cloth. Arrange all your tools inside. Use a truck box organization tray if needed. If you need to keep small tools inside the truck, consider installing a small drawer unit inside the truck. Lock your toolbox after keeping all the tools.