Four tool box work bench island (1 Viewer)

[firestopper]

With the new shop in full swing, I found myself requiring tool storage for both automotive (4th bay) tools and machining tooling (3rd bay). Having too many rolling toolboxes would eat up space and probably get a bit counter productive.
Sometime back I found a work bench build by a guy that goes by "Steevo" on Garage journal. I reviewed his post of his build using four HF 42" toolboxes. I really liked his choice of materials for his build and decided to build my own with a twist. This will not be a welding table, but will serve to tack jigs for axel work and such.
I also incorporated two stool pockets (on either side) for those tedious assemblies such as rebuilding carbs or building guns rifles etc.
The main frames are 2"x2" .120 wall, the angle iron that supports the toolboxes are 3/16" x 1.5"x1.5". The same angle iron will tie in the two frames and run along the sides to secure the plywood decking.

I built the frames then had to tie them in on the floor due to the size of the work bench.

I purchased some HD leveling feet and was very happy with the results.

At this point, a test fit of the boxes was next. They load in from the top and rest on the angle iron cross pieces.

 

[firestopper]

Loading boxes.

Prior to welding the two into one, I used a laser level to ensure all was good.

The top angle required notching for lock and badging. Next was to add two receivers off center for future jigs, vice etc.

 

[firestopper]

Two more 2"x2" cross pieces added with receivers just behind the outer top angle. This jig secures a third member for performing work and taking accurate measurements.

Two 3/4" BC plywood was added to top and will be covered by 1/8" steel sheet. a 2" leg will be broken on all four sides to finish the top.

I used # 14x 2" self tapping fasteners. I counted bored 3/8" deep with a 11/16" spade bit for sub flush fit. I also used 5/16" hardened washers between the screw head and wood. All holes where pre drilled to ensure no broken screw heads.

Next up, I will fit the top and install threaded 1/4"-20 inserts to secure the top with counter sunk allen screws. Then on to disassembly and prime and paint. I will post more once completed.

Thanks for looking.

 

[KLF]

Can I come work for you? Damn that is nice work.

 

[firestopper]

Haha, sure! work with me NOT for me, been there done that. I've been a one man show since 95. Prerequisite are Loud classic Rock n Roll and cold beer! Thanks for the nice words KLF.

 

[firestopper]

Got the top legs broken and it fit nicely over plywood. Almost done!

 

[OGBeno]

EPIC!!!!

 

[rusty_tlc]

Nice. That would be easy to scale down for a home shop.

 

[firestopper]

Nice. That would be easy to scale down for a home shop.

Yes, the back to back boxes could be side by side to create a 24" deep workbench along a wall or even 90 degree corner/wall scheme.
The shop is at home and I work mostly on my projects but have a small client base.

 

[Tapage]

sweet setup to say the least ..

 

[firestopper]

^^Gracias amigo^^

 

[firestopper]

The naked workbench. Getting ready for prime and paint.

 

[TLC Norway]

inspiring!!!

 

[firestopper]

Primed and painted.

 

[jynx]

This is amazing, I want one, but I will have to settle for the HF boxes in mine. I will have to tuck this little jewel away in my memory for a later date.

Very nice work!

 

[firestopper]

I have a confession......These are HF boxes with chi-com "Snap-on" badging. Money don't grow on trees man. hahaha
Anyway, all done and loaded with tooling. The boxes where purchased on sale for $359 ea. and slide nice loaded down. The Serrett's are real lol...

 

[warezdog]

BAAAAAADASS!! Source on the leveling feet please!

 

[firestopper]

BAAAAAADASS!! Source on the leveling feet please!

Thanks.

The feet and inserts came from J.W. Winco inc. The website can get tricky as you scroll the options.
The ones I purchased are (insert) 448V2V1788T (1/2"-13 threads).
and the feet: 8T4LIT yellow zink (1/2"-13 X 4")

J.W.W offers a ton of goods at reasonable prices.
another good source is fixtureworks.com

 

[warezdog]

Thanks! The static load on those inserts was way higher than I thought they were!

BTW are those dimple dies on your press I see?

 

[GLTHFJ60]

That's an amazing box. Thanks for the JW Winco recommendation, I've finally found the feet I want for my welding table!!