Craftsman VERSATRACK Starter Kit

Transforming a cluttered garage into an organized and efficient workspace can be quite the challenge. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Craftsman VersaTrack Starter Kit (model CMST22000) to see if it could help me tame the chaos in my garage. Here’s my detailed experience with this versatile storage solution.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Upon opening the box, I was greeted with an assortment of components neatly packaged and ready for assembly. The kit includes two VersaTrack trackwalls, four end caps, a variety of hooks—both short and long general-purpose hooks, curved pivot hooks, an outdoor power equipment hook, and eight snap-in hooks. The absence of screws and detailed instructions was immediately noticeable, which meant I had to gather my own mounting hardware and rely on my intuition for installation.

Installation Process

The installation process was fairly straightforward, though it did require some preparation. The trackwalls are made of a sturdy plastic composite, which initially raised some concerns about durability. However, once I started working with the material, it became clear that it was designed to withstand a fair amount of weight and stress.

I began by locating the studs in my garage wall, as securing the trackwalls to studs is essential for maximizing their load-bearing capacity. The trackwalls can support up to 75 lbs per linear foot, so ensuring a solid attachment was crucial. After marking the positions of the studs, I drilled pilot holes through the trackwalls and into the wall. This part of the process was somewhat tedious, as the trackwalls do not come with pre-drilled holes. However, it allowed for a customized fit based on the unique layout of my garage.

Once the trackwalls were securely mounted, attaching the hooks and accessories was a breeze. The hooks snap into place and can be adjusted along the trackwall with ease. Each hook has a small knob that can be turned to lock it in place, providing additional stability. The end caps provided a clean, finished look to the installation.

Versatility and Customization

One of the standout features of the VersaTrack system is its versatility. The variety of hooks included in the kit allows for a wide range of storage options. I was able to hang everything from power tools and gardening equipment to smaller hand tools and accessories. The ability to slide the hooks along the trackwall and lock them in place made it easy to customize the layout to fit my specific needs.

Additionally, the trackwalls can be cut to fit any space, which is a huge advantage for those with unique or irregularly shaped areas. I opted to install one trackwall in my garage and the other in my shed, both of which have different storage requirements. The system adapted seamlessly to both environments.

Performance and Durability

After loading up the trackwalls with various tools and equipment, I was pleased to see that the system held up exceptionally well. The plastic composite material of the trackwalls did not show any signs of stress or bending, even under significant weight. The hooks remained securely in place, and the locking mechanism provided an extra layer of confidence that nothing would come crashing down unexpectedly.

One minor concern is the long-term durability of the plastic composite material, especially in environments with extreme temperature fluctuations. Only time will tell how well the material will hold up, but so far, it has proven to be quite robust.

Areas for Improvement

While the VersaTrack system has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The most notable issue is the lack of included mounting hardware and detailed installation instructions. For a product designed to be user-friendly, these omissions can be frustrating, especially for those who may not have a well-stocked toolbox or experience with DIY projects.

Another potential improvement would be the inclusion of pre-drilled holes in the trackwalls. This would streamline the installation process and ensure more precise and consistent mounting.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman VersaTrack Starter Kit is an excellent solution for anyone looking to organize their garage, shed, or workspace. Its versatility, ease of customization, and sturdy construction make it a valuable addition to any home. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh the inconveniences.

I would highly recommend the VersaTrack system to anyone in need of a reliable and adaptable storage solution. Its ability to transform cluttered spaces into organized, efficient areas is impressive, and the quality of the components ensures that it will provide long-lasting performance. If you’re ready to take control of your workspace and enjoy the benefits of a well-organized environment, the Craftsman VersaTrack Starter Kit is definitely worth considering.