Mounting toolbox to hitch-haul

Tradarcher

Well-Known Member
Joined
Mar 20, 2005
Location
Creedmoor, NC
I have a hitch-haul and just picked up an aluminum tool box that fits it perfectly. I want to mount it semi-permanently to the hitch-haul. Whatever method I choose must be waterproof. I thought about using some turnbuckles. Any ideas?
 
Bolts through the bottom or just use a couple of straps across the top. I have bolts through the bottom of mine and it doesn't get any water in it. Well no more than the condensation that exists anyway. Even when mounting them in a truck most of them use bolts through the wings. I guess you could put eye bolts there and use turnbuckles but you would want to add some supports to the toolbox because that steel is just sheet metal. Also maybe just use one turnbuckle per side so that the box isn't adding rigidity to the totter. This stresses the welds and pulls the box out of shape.
 
Well after considerable thought here is what I ended up with. I added the handles and used rubber washers to prevent leaks. Under one of the mounting screws I used a Harley bungie tab for turnbuckle mounting. I did it this way because I did not want to drill holes in the bottom. I needed the chest to be removable yet secure enough to "keep an honest man honest" as the saying goes. The turnbuckle uses a jam nut so if someone wants it they would have to break out the tool box.

Pretty much my sole purpose for this project is for stowing hunting gear when I take the Jeep instead of the Suburban. I have also needed the space for fold up chairs, coolers and beach bag. If I had drilled holes in the bottom I would compromise any waterproofing that I would have done each time I removed it. I was fortunate enough to find the chest for $65 on craigslist and another $15 in hardware puts me at $80. Not bad. Came without a key but the mfg says I can get a replacement for $5.50.

Of course I am using a locking hitch pin. Lights on the hitch basket are required since the chest covers the Jeep lights. I may add some reflectors or tape to the lid too. I might also redrill the hitch pin holes so I can mount it closer to the bumper and still have the lid open.

DCP02480.JPG

DCP02481.JPG
 
yager said:
craigslist rocks
Click to expand...

For sure. I check it about 10 times a day. My problem is location. If I really want something I have to arrange to get it ASAP and usually have to drive to Raleigh, Apex, Garner, FV, Holly Springs to get it. Sending some motor mount lifts to RTP with the wife tomorrow.

I wonder if eBay has been on the guy about selling yet?
 
Back
Top