Craftsman Side Mount Truck Tool Box

A well-crafted truck tool box is an essential asset for anyone who relies on their vehicle for work or travel. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Craftsman Side Mount Truck Tool Box, model number CMXTBAK1133479, and I found the experience to be quite enlightening. While Craftsman has historically been a trusted name in tools, my time with this particular tool box was a mix of satisfaction and disappointment.

Initial Impressions and Installation

Out of the box, the side mount tool box appeared robust with its aluminum construction. The included mounting kit and leg brackets simplified the installation process significantly. Installing it onto my truck bed was straightforward and took around an hour. However, I had to ensure the alignment was perfect to avoid any future issues with the lid or locking mechanism.

Design and Build Quality

The tool box is moderately sized at 46.9 inches in length, 15.7 inches in width, and 13.3 inches in height, with a weight of 35 pounds. The aluminum construction gives it a shiny, professional look, but I quickly noticed a few dents and minor imperfections on the lid. Whether this was a shipping issue or a manufacturing defect, I can't say for sure, but it was a bit disheartening to see on a brand-new product.

One of the standout features is the push-button open and close mechanism, which theoretically should make accessing my tools more convenient. However, in practice, I found that the locking mechanism was finicky. If not perfectly aligned, the lid either wouldn't close properly or would pop open while driving. This required me to frequently check and adjust the latch, which became quite tedious.

Security and Durability

Security is crucial for any tool box, and this model comes with two keys for the locking mechanism. Unfortunately, the lock didn't inspire much confidence. On more than one occasion, I found the lid had popped open despite being locked, compelling me to use additional bungee cords to keep it secure during travel. This is far from ideal, especially for a product designed to protect valuable tools and equipment.

As for durability, the aluminum construction should theoretically resist rust and weather-related damage, but the initial dents and the issue with the lid not staying closed made me question its long-term reliability. It's worth noting that the tool box does come with a five-year limited warranty, which offers some peace of mind.

Practical Use and Organization

In terms of storage capacity, the tool box is spacious enough to hold a good number of tools and equipment. However, the lack of internal compartments or trays limits its organizational capabilities. I found myself having to dig through a pile of tools to find what I needed. Adding some custom dividers or smaller storage bins might be necessary for those who prefer a more organized setup.

The tool box's weather resistance was tested during a rainy week, and I'm happy to report that it did a commendable job of keeping my tools dry. Despite the visible gaps when the lid was closed, no water managed to seep in, which is a definite plus for those who often work in inclement weather.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easy Installation: The included mounting kit and leg brackets make it simple to install on a truck bed.
• Weather Resistance: The tool box effectively keeps tools dry even in heavy rain.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The aluminum construction provides a sleek, professional look.
• Five-Year Warranty: Offers some reassurance regarding long-term durability.

Cons:

• Locking Mechanism: The finicky lock and lid alignment issues are significant drawbacks.
• Build Quality: Initial dents and imperfections on the lid raise concerns about overall durability.
• Organizational Limitations: The lack of internal compartments makes it harder to keep tools organized.
• Security Concerns: The lid popping open despite being locked undermines its primary purpose.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Ultimately, the Craftsman Side Mount Truck Tool Box has some redeeming qualities, but it falls short in critical areas such as security and build quality. Its weather resistance and easy installation are notable advantages, but the frequent issues with the locking mechanism and the initial dents on a new product are hard to overlook.

Would I recommend this tool box? If you are looking for a budget-friendly option and are willing to make some modifications (like adding bungee cords for extra security), it might serve your needs adequately. However, for those who prioritize reliability and durability, it would be wise to consider investing a bit more in a higher-quality tool box.

In conclusion, while the Craftsman Side Mount Truck Tool Box offers some convenience and aesthetic appeal, its practical shortcomings prevent it from being a wholeheartedly recommended purchase.