Informational Guide

How To Install A Truck Tool Box

In this guide, we’ll show you how to install a truck tool box in a step by step mounting guide.

When you are trying to complete a job, you need to know you have the right tools by your side.

Having a truck tool box can help you keep everything nearby and handy. However, learning how to install a truck tool box can be overwhelming, especially if you have never done it before.  

In this guide, we cover how to mount a truck tool box for easy access to everything you need.  

truck tool box

Why Do You Need A Truck Tool Box? 

After you learn how to install a truck bed tool box, you may ask yourself if having a tool box in your truck is valuable at all. However, the benefits of installing a tool box into the truck bed are endless. Here are a few to consider. 

  • Protection From The Elements 
    When you keep your tools out of the weather, you prevent rust and corrosion. The more protection that’s offered, the longer the tools will last.
  • Organization/Efficiency 
    When you are looking for a particular tool, you want to know its precise location. With a truck tool box, you can ensure that the right tool is found every time, saving you time during a high-pressure job. 
  • Security 
    If you throw your tools into the truck bed, they can be easily stolen. However, locking them in a tool box ensures that people remain honest. After all, it isn’t easy to pry open a tool box without being noticed. 

Common Types Of Tool Box Materials (Which Is Best?) 

Aluminum 

Aluminum is a strong material and also lightweight, which is why it is commonly used for making tool boxes. Commonly, they contain a rugged diamond plate or rugged texture to reduce the smoothness. In general, the aluminum tool box isn’t going to get too hot to handle.  

Steel 

Steel is heavier than aluminum, but it is also tougher. It can bear more weight and is more resistant to damage. The inner and outer portions of these tool boxes are covered with a powder coat for more protection from the elements.  

Stainless Steel 

Stainless steel boxes are also strong and durable, but the cost is much higher. The material is resistant to corrosion and could last far longer than the other options. Additionally, they are resistant to wear and simple to clean.  

Plastic 

Plastic also won’t corrode, but the design is much less durable than its metal counterparts. Still, the plastic boxes are lightweight, and some are transparent, making it easy to see what's inside.  

Wooden 

Wooden tool boxes are mainly used for decoration and as heirlooms. These are susceptible to damage and not protected from the elements without additional work.  

mechanic toolbox

How To Install A Truck Tool Box (DIY Guide For Pickups) 

What You’ll Need

  • Some mechanical experience 
  • Tape measure 
  • Work gloves 
  • Craft knife or scissors 
  • Rubber or foam padding 
  • Drill 
  • Screwdriver 
  • Hardware (Screws, nuts, and bolts) 
  • A new tool box 
  • Friend for help and moral support 

Step By Step Instructions

Learning how to install a tool box on a truck isn’t as complicated as you might think. If you have basic mechanical knowledge and the right tools, you aren’t going to have any problems. You might choose to bribe a friend to help you out, especially if the tool box is heavy. 

  • Step 1 
    Pick a location for the tool box. You want to pick a location that allows for the most space in the truck bed without causing trouble with the lid hitting the cab of your truck. 
  • Step 2
    Measure the amount of foam padding you will need. If you have a truck bed liner, there’s no reason to install any padding. Otherwise, put the padding in place to protect your pickup.  
  • Step 3
    Position the tool box carefully. You want the lid to open all the way without any obstructions. Some tool boxes require some extra space for clearance, so it’s best to work that all out before you learn how to attach a toolbox to a truck.  
  • Step 4
    If there aren’t pre-drilled holes in the bed rails, you need to learn how to place them appropriately. Measure and drill new holes on both sides. However, if the truck has holes already, you can move on with learning how to install a truck tool box without drilling.  
  • Step 5 
    Next, you are going to learn how to install a truck tool box with J hooks. Place rubber J-bolt plugs into your drilled holes. Insert a J-hook into the hole from below the bed rail. Make sure the threaded part is pushed through the plug. Secure it with a washer and make sure you tighten it completely. Do this with every J-hook and J-bolt. 

You can use these same steps if you want to know how to install a flush mount truck tool box. We always recommend following the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. Our instructions are generic and may not work with all types.  

Popular Truck Tool Box Brands (How To Install Them) 

Installing A Craftsman Truck Tool Box 

Pickup owners want to know how to install a Craftsman truck tool box because of the reliability of the products. Following the steps listed above, you will be able to figure out the correct truck tool box installation for your particular model.  

Installing A Tractor Supply Tool Box 

When it comes to figuring out how to install a Tractor Supply truck tool box, you are in luck. The company provides detailed information about their products, ensuring you get the appropriate fit. If the bed rails already have holes drilled, the installation will be a breeze.  

Installing A Husky Truck Tool Box 

Do you want to know how to install a Husky truck tool box? The key to getting these installed correctly is to make sure your measurements are correct. You don’t want to drill holes in a spot where they don’t belong. Otherwise, you will need to make repairs to your truck instead.  

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Are truck tool boxes universal? 

Not only are tool boxes limited to the space between the bed rails, but they also come in a variety of sizes based on depth and height. Take measurements to ensure the tool box will fit your truck bed. Prices however, vary on all types and models.

How long does it take to install a truck tool box? 

If there are already holes drilled into the truck bed, the process requires you to place the box and secure it. This shouldn’t take you more than thirty minutes. However, you are looking at more time if you need to drill holes.  

What tools can you keep in the truck tool box? 

How do you know what to keep in a truck tool box? Depending on the size, you can keep a variety of hand tools, power tools and diagnostic tools. However, if you are keeping anything of value inside, you want to ensure the box locks for security.  

How do you clean a truck tool box? 

Learning how to clean a truck tool box depends on the material it is made from. For example, if you have a stainless steel box, you want to polish it with the appropriate cleaning products.  

Conclusion

How do you install a truck tool box? With our carefully laid out steps, you can have your truck box placed perfectly and secured quickly. Instead of spending a lot of time getting the tool box installed, you can get back to completing those tougher jobs.  

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