Snap On tool chest restoration

[Gat0rvean]

Guys, hoping some of you can help me out! I inherited a snap on tool chest from my grandfather, it seems to me to be in pretty good shape but I want to degrease it, give it a good paint job that will last for quite some time. I have absolutely no intention of ever selling it, so not necessary to do a perfect original restoration, just something that will look really, really good and last a long time!

I've never done anything like this so any step by step suggestions would be really appreciated! Here are some pics!

 

[gm350reratliff]

I would just clean it really good. That weathered look is cool.

 

[Ol'Blue]

I would just take it apart part by part. There are clips on the rails so just be very careful with them they break real easy, ask me how I know. Other than that just use a good lubrication when putting it back together.

Blue

 

[Gat0rvean]

There is a couple rust spots that have not gone all the way through yet, what's the best way to deal with those so it doesn't keep wearing away?

 

[blizz86]

There is a couple rust spots that have not gone all the way through yet, what's the best way to deal with those so it doesn't keep wearing away?

rust converter imo.. and just keep it lubed up. the "used" look is better than a brand spanking new chest with no signs of aging. :thumb:

 

[Nervo19]

Search garagejournal.com There are a ton of tool box restoration threads on there. I know they usually use a Rustoleum color called "sunrise red." There is also a paint code for the factory red if you want it mixed in auto paint. You can get new slides and casters from Snap On dealers. There are also some vids on YouTube, especially on how to get the drawers out.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=99670

Yours really seems to be in good shape though. I wonder what a wash and wax would do for it.

 

[cdrewferd]

^^^^^Agreed^^^^^

 

[BlackWorksInc]

I believe all modern boxes are powder coated now, rather than painted. But the weathered stuff looks nice.

 

[KidVermicious]

Sand off the rust, then mask off the shiny bits and rattlecan the thing with a flat black. Turn it into the ratrod of toolboxes.

 

[Hepar]

I agree with the others who say to leave it largely untouched. Take care of the rust and leave it largely alone. The patina is what gives it its character and it doesn't take away from its functionality.