How to Choose and Install a Truck Toolbox

How to Choose and Install a Truck Toolbox

Learn how to select the right toolbox for your truck bed and install it securely without drilling holes.

Truck toolboxes are compartments typically installed in the bed of a truck, just behind the cab. These allow you to store your tools safely and securely while eliminating clutter, especially when carrying heavy equipment. Installing a toolbox is fairly straightforward, provided you choose the right one for your vehicle. Here are some tips on how to select a toolbox suited to your needs and how to install it in your truck bed.

• Determine exactly where you want to set the toolbox. Most trucks have enough space in the bed directly behind the cab. In fact, it is highly recommended to use this space, provided nothing obstructs accessibility. If you find this area suitable for the toolbox, you will need to measure the width of the bed. Remember that truck toolboxes come in different shapes and sizes. While you might think bigger is always better, the ideal size really depends on the types of tools you plan to store.
• Pick the right toolbox. Toolboxes are made from various materials. Plastic models are the cheapest, but they lack durability—especially when constantly exposed to sunlight or when loaded with heavy tools. A metal toolbox with diamond plating offers greater durability due to its high-quality material. You can also choose a wooden toolbox, though its durability in rainy climates may be questionable. Whatever you choose, make sure to get one that comes with J-bolts, which allow you to install the toolbox onto your truck bed without drilling holes.
• Read the instructions carefully. Regardless of which toolbox you purchase, make sure to thoroughly read the accompanying instructions. They will explain how to secure the toolbox in place and how to properly care for it.
• Prepare your truck bed. Unless your truck bed is coated with rubberized paint or a protective mat, line the area where you will place the toolbox with a rubber mat. This protects the bed's paint job from constant vibrations caused by the toolbox, which can otherwise chip the paint.
• Install the toolbox. Assuming you purchased a toolbox that includes J-bolts, locate the J-bolt hooks on the sides of the box. These are the bolts you will use to secure the unit to the sides of the truck bed. Place the box in the designated area and work on one bolt at a time. Latch the hooks onto the side rails of the truck bed and install the nuts and washers inside the box. Tighten the nuts with a ratchet just enough to hold that particular bolt securely in place. Repeat these steps for the remaining three bolts.

Once you have secured all the bolts, open the box and place your tools inside. Close and lock the lid. Take the truck for a test drive and check whether the toolbox shifted. If it remains firmly in place, the installation is complete.