1930 1931 Model A Ford Accessory Tool Box

[GJRoberts]

Does anyone have experience with the 1930-1931 Model A Ford Accessory Tool Box that mounts between the front frame horns? I have seen several that were hand made over 20 years ago, and they were fantastic. I now see newly manufactured ones for sale for around $225. They are designed to look like an original part of the body, rather than a clunky box shape.

[Jim Huseby]

Some years ago I designed a tool box that matched the shape of the frame horns. It can be identified by some small ribs and a hidden hinge in the front so if it didn't get latched properly, it wouldn't blow open. I tooled up and manufactured about 200 of them for MikesAfordable Model A parts supplier out of Georgia. He may still have pics of them in his catalog.

[denis4x4]

Here's mine...a $20 tool box and some 1/4" X 2" strap.

[Y-Blockhead]

I have the tool box sold by Mike's. http://www.mikes-afordable.com/product/T1005.html I think it looks better than the square box because it blends in with the front end. I carry my jack, some tools and other items in it. The thing I don't like about it is since it is hinged at the front if you pull the lid toward the front of the car hard enough you can open it. (Effectively bending the lid.) But I suppose if someone want to get in bad enough they could get into almost anything...

[C26Pinelake]

I ordered two from Mikes and returned them as I was not satisfied with the quality. They were somewhat flimsy and looked home made! Wayne

[Tom Wesenberg]

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I'm surprised no one has made a tool box that fits under the running board. It would slide out and only need to be a couple inches thick to hold a lot of tools. It would be completely out of the way of the spare tire and hand cranking the engine.

[Houdini]

inex01,
How does the toolbox you have attach. Does it come with some type of saddle clamps that slip over the bumper brackets, or do you have to drill into them to provide a mount?

How do others support a toolbox, with clamps or do you drill and bolt on brackets? the steel on the bumper brackets is very hard to drill through.

[katy]

How does the toolbox you have attach. Does it come with some type of saddle clamps that slip over the bumper brackets, or do you have to drill into them to provide a mount?

How do others support a toolbox, with clamps or do you drill and bolt on brackets? the steel on the bumper brackets is very hard to drill through.

The answer can be found on page 170 of Bratton's catalogue.

[DougVieyra]

The square box tool box is MUCH larger than the 'contoured' (and more aesthetically pleasing) box sold by Mike's. In wanting to Keep my '28 Phaeton as stock as possible, I chose Mike's 'Contoured' box for it's looks, even though it holds much less tools and supplies than does the square box one.

On the other hand for my 1931 Coupe, built up as a daily driver 'Touring A', I was less concerned about original appearances. So for that car I installed the much larger capacity Box type. I have had this larger square box in service for over thirty years, and I LOVE it. With careful packing, it holds a huge assortment of items. It was especially useful when I drove from California to Alaska and back. I believe that these type of front-mounted tool boxes are still available at some of the Parts Suppliers.

Additionally, the square box that fits snuggly behind the front bumper, makes an excellent sitting chair for frequent 'fireside chats', as well as a handy shelf to set stuff on while parked.

So having and using both types of boxes, if I had to choose only one - it would be the square box. Once you get past the fact that it does look like an 'after thought', it is infinitely more useful.

P.S. - Do be mindful, that when you install either box, you lose the ability to access your crank hole, and thereby you lose the ability to use a hand crank to turn over your engine - for timing, starting, etc.

- Doug Vieyra, Eureka, California

[Tom Wesenberg]

I find all the tools I need to carry fit under the front seat, as well as the spare parts, such as coil, and distributor. If you don't want to lift the seat for the tools, just pack them into an old suitcase, and that way they can be carried to your friend's car being worked on, or to another car you might drive.

[Jwilli]

Does not meet the approval of the purist, but it serves the purpose.

[armchair67]

I have the "Basement" in my 31 Tudor and love it. I am able to carry tools, extra oil, repair manuals, tools, etc.

[bettlesr]

I have the contoured tool box and I think it looks great. Most people don't even notice it. It will hold a gallon bottle of antifreeze , a couple bottles of oil and a spare distributor. (Just in case the electronics one goes south). Keep a lot of tools in it also. I rekeyed the lock so the same key fits all the locks on the car. My hot water heater takes up about 1/2 the space under the seat.

[Mike V. Florida]

Originally Posted by Jwilli

Does not meet the approval of the purist, but it serves the purpose.

Purists don't approve of any tool box.

[1927reocpe]

Originally Posted by Mike V. Florida

Purists don't approve of any tool box.

( Until they break down and need some tools)

[Mike V. Florida]

Originally Posted by 1927reocpe

( Until they break down and need some tools)

If built right they don't break down.

[DougVieyra]

Mike: "If built right they don't break down."
-------------------------------------------

So Mike, is that why every dealership had a 'Repair Shop', which provided much, if not most, of their 'bottom-line' income?

Even 'Perfection' has a bad day from time to time.

[Mike V. Florida]

Originally Posted by DougVieyra

Mike: "If built right they don't break down."
-------------------------------------------

So Mike, is that why every dealership had a 'Repair Shop', which provided much, if not most, of their 'bottom-line' income?

Even 'Perfection' has a bad day from time to time.

You did see the grinning smiley faces after what I wrote right?

[inex01]

Originally Posted by denis4x4

Here's mine...a $20 tool box and some 1/4" X 2" strap.

That is a super idea!

[apbright]

I have used the contoured box for about two years, bought from Snyder's. I do find it useful for basic tools, extra oil, and the gas filler extension neck. However, it does tend to fall open while I'm driving, and the paint finish went 'cloudy,' requiring some touch-up polish. I have considered changing to the square-type.