5 Craftsman Tool Box Locks

The Buyer’s Guide

Does My Toolbox Even Need To Lock?

When you invest in high-quality instruments and a sturdy toolbox, you want them to last a long time and provide you with long-term usefulness and enjoyment. Nevertheless, keeping your tools secure even after they’ve been utilized to avoid theft, loss, or other fundamental damage is critical [1].

Utility box locks can provide your tools and the truck bed’s toolbox with significant support and protection, ensuring that only you have access to them. The locks allow you to retrieve your equipment, which means other people without the keys can’t just open up the toolbox lid and grab your stuff.

A well-secured toolbox can also help prevent the loss and displacement of your tools. When you’re in motion, the lid of your toolbox flies open, or you go over a major pothole, your tools can easily fall out and land on the road or fly around inside your truck’s bed. You may keep all of your equipment secure while driving with a robust lock and secure top.

Why Do Thieves Target Tools?

The most important benefit of a toolbox lock is that it prevents others from gaining access to your toolbox and stealing your equipment. Keeping your tools in a secure location eliminates the worry of storing your truck in public or being afraid that they would be stolen.

They prevent thieves from stealing your valuable goods when they break into your toolbox. They’re also essential if you keep dangerous or specialized tools that only experts should have access to, such as personal firearms, which can be deadly if not in your hands.

External Tool Box Locks Types

When it comes to choosing a lock for your Craftsman toolbox lock, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

First of all, you need to decide what type of lock you want. There are two main types of locks: keyed and combination. Keyed locks require a key to open, while combination locks can be opened with a code or combination [2].

However, if you are looking for a lock that is easier to use, then a combination lock might be a better option.

Some people prefer keyed locks because they feel like they are more secure. However, combination locks can be just as secure if you choose a good one. It is really up to personal preference which type of lock you want to use.

Main Features

Style

Once you have decided on the type of lock you want, the next step is to choose a style.

There are three main styles of locks:

• Padlocks are the most common type of lock and can be found in most toolboxes;
• Deadbolts are more secure than padlocks but can be more difficult to install;
• Cam locks are the most secure option but can be difficult to remove if you need to get into your toolbox in a hurry;

Toolbox Size and Weight

The size and weight of your toolbox will also play a role in determining the type of lock you need. If you have a small, lightweight toolbox, a padlock will likely be sufficient. However, if you have a larger, heavier toolbox, you may want to consider a deadbolt or cam lock for added security.

You must also think about how you’ll keep each lid and compartment of your toolbox closed if it has several lids. If you’re only concerned with keeping the toolbox itself closed, a single padlock or deadbolt will suffice. However, if you need to keep each lid and compartment closed, you’ll need to purchase additional locks or install some sort of locking system.

Placement

Utility box locks are used to unlock and lift the lids or drawers of a toolbox. They must be firmly attached and inserted in the correct slots in the toolbox, which were designed for the lock. Trying to secure a lock somewhere other than where it is intended on the toolbox usually necessitates more drilling or hardware, so consider how many modifications you’re comfortable with making to your current design.

Some bigger toolboxes have side and front lifting locks that connect to the latching mechanism for the lid. When changing or implementing toolbox locks, it’s critical to keep in mind where they should be positioned in order to provide adequate security and pressure on each side of the box’s lid.

Locks without a distributed balance may be readily opened by others by prying one side of the lid open enough to access your stuff in the gaps.

Because of these reasons, you’ll want toolbox locks on the opposite front ends of the lid or a middle-mounted lock that can rightfully secure the top’s weight by balancing it with a bottom-mounted lock.

Structure and Assembly

Now that we know a little more about the features and benefits of using a Craftsman Toolbox Lock, let’s take a look at the structure and assembly.

The first thing you’ll notice is that the lock is very sturdy and well-made.

Once you have the lock installed, you’ll be able to use it with any standard-size padlock. Just insert the shackle into the hole in the center of the lock and secure it with the included set screws.

Waterproof

No matter what kind of lock you get for your Craftsman toolbox, it’s important to make sure it is weatherproof. This will help to extend the life of the lock and keep it working properly.

To improve the waterproof properties of your toolbox locks:

• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the keyhole. This will help to keep water out and make it more difficult for dirt and debris to build up in the keyhole;
• Use a silicone-based lubricant on the moving parts of the locking mechanism. This will help to keep rust and corrosion at bay;
• If possible, store your toolbox in a garage or shed when not in use. This will help to protect it from the elements;

Accessibility

You want to be able to easily get to your tools when you need them, so it’s important to choose a lock that is easy to use:

• Choose a lock that is the right size for your toolbox. You don’t want a lock that is too small or too large;
• Make sure the keyhole is in an easily accessible location. You don’t want to have to fumble around with the lock when you’re trying to get to your tools;
• If possible, choose a lock with a built-in key light. This will help you to see the keyhole in low-light conditions;

Other Features

Now that you know how to install and use the lock, let’s take a look at some of the best features:

• One of the best features is if a toolbox comes with two keys. This is great if you lose one or if you want to have a spare;
• Another great feature is that the lock is pick resistant. This means that it will be very difficult for someone to break into your toolbox;
• The last thing we want to mention is that this lock comes with a limited lifetime warranty. This means that if anything goes wrong, you’ll be covered;

FAQ

How do you open a Craftsman toolbox without a key?

There are a few ways to open a Craftsman toolbox without a key [3]:

• The first way is to use a screwdriver to pry open the lock. This method will usually damage the lock, so it is not recommended;
• The second way is to use a bump key. Bump keys are specially cut keys that can be used to “bump” open pin tumbler locks;
• The third way is to pick the lock with a tension wrench and pick the set. This method requires some skill and practice, but it is the most effective way to open a Craftsman toolbox without damaging the lock;

Where is the Craftsman toolbox key code?

The lock code is a numerical combination that identifies the right key for your lock and will be etched on your key or the face of your lock if you lose your keys.

Craftsman tool boxes and tool chests frequently use the below key series.

How do you open a stuck Craftsman toolbox?

If your Craftsman toolbox is stuck, there are a few things you can try to get it open:

• First, try using a lubricant like WD40 or silicone spray on the keyhole and lock mechanism;
• If that doesn’t work, you can try using a small wire or paperclip to jiggle the locking mechanism open;
• If all else fails, you can always call a locksmith to help you get into your toolbox [4];

Craftsman makes a variety of different toolboxes with different locks, so it’s important to know which one you have before trying to pick it open. Some of their newer models have electronic push-button locks that can be opened with a code, while older models usually have keyed locks. Either way, picking a Craftsman toolbox lock is relatively easy as long as you have the right tools.

Where is the model number on a Craftsman toolbox?

On a Craftsman toolbox, the model number is easy to find. On the left side of a Craftsman toolbox’s Product Identification Label, you’ll locate the 11-character (including alphabets and numbers) model number (excluding hyphens) [5].

How do you remove the drawers from a Craftsman toolbox?

To remove the drawers from a Craftsman toolbox, you’ll need to open up the top lid and locate the two latch release levers on either side of the box. Once you’ve found them, simply push down on both levers at the same time and pull the drawer out.

Craftsman toolboxes are known for their durability and quality, but even the best toolboxes can have their problems. Sometimes, you may need to pick the lock on your Craftsman toolbox if you’ve lost your key or if the lock is jammed. Other times, you might need to remove the drawers to clean out your toolbox or to access something that’s stored in the back.

How do you remove a drawer without a lever?

If your Craftsman toolbox doesn’t have latch release levers, you can still remove the drawers by opening up the top lid and locating the two small tabs on either side of the box. Once you’ve found them, simply push down on both tabs at the same time and pull the drawer out.

Whether you’re trying to pick a lock or remove a drawer, it’s important to know where to find the model number on your Craftsman toolbox. The model number is easy to find and is located on the left side of the Product Identification Label. Once you know your model number, you can easily find instructions online for picking or removing different parts from your toolbox.

Video Tutorial: New Craftsman Tool Cabinet Locked Drawers Fix

Final thoughts

So, what’s the verdict? What are the best locks for Craftsman toolboxes? Well, that depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a basic lock that will keep your tools safe, any of the options we’ve listed above should work well.

However, if you need something more heavy-duty, we recommend either the DeeZee or JQuad products. Keep in mind that these locks may be a bit more expensive than some of the others on the market, but they offer excellent security and peace of mind. Where can you buy them? You can find both of these locks available from most online retailers, as well as many local hardware stores. Thanks for reading!

References:

1. https://www.gearhands.com/truck-utility-box-locks/
2. https://decked.com/blogs/decked/decked-tool-box-locks-3590
3. https://www.quickprolocksmith.com/how-to-open-a-locked-toolbox-without-a-key.html
4. https://toolvisit.com/how-to-open-craftsman-tool-chest-drawers/
5. https://rxmechanic.com/how-to-date-craftsman-tool-box