Index

Every question this site answers

408 questions, grouped by topic, each one linked straight to its answer in the guide that covers it. If your question is not here, it is a gap worth telling us about.

Chests and Cabinets Modular Systems Boxes and Bags Truck and Jobsite Drawer Organization Shop Storage Care and Security Calculators

Tool Chests and Roller Cabinets

Slides, steel, casters and capacity, decoded before you spend.

Are 100 lb slides enough for a socket drawer?Drawer Slides on Tool Chests, Explained
Can I upgrade the slides in a budget tool chest?Drawer Slides on Tool Chests, Explained
What is the difference between full extension and overtravel?Drawer Slides on Tool Chests, Explained
Why do some big drawers have two slides per side?Drawer Slides on Tool Chests, Explained
Do soft close slides reduce capacity?Drawer Slides on Tool Chests, Explained
Should I worry about the plastic parts in a slide?Drawer Slides on Tool Chests, Explained
Is 16 gauge always better than 18 gauge on a tool box?Steel Gauge on Tool Boxes, Decoded
What gauge steel are most tool chests made from?Steel Gauge on Tool Boxes, Decoded
How do I measure the gauge of a box I already own?Steel Gauge on Tool Boxes, Decoded
Does the gauge apply to the whole box?Steel Gauge on Tool Boxes, Decoded
Why is 18 gauge exactly 0.0478 in and not a round number?Steel Gauge on Tool Boxes, Decoded
Does stainless or aluminum use the same gauge numbers?Steel Gauge on Tool Boxes, Decoded
Should I organize by job or by tool type?How to Lay Out Tool Chest Drawers
Which drawer should hold sockets?How to Lay Out Tool Chest Drawers
How much empty space should I leave in a new layout?How to Lay Out Tool Chest Drawers
Do I need foam in every drawer?How to Lay Out Tool Chest Drawers
Does handedness really matter in a drawer layout?How to Lay Out Tool Chest Drawers
How big should the casters on a roller cabinet be?Casters and Mobility on Roller Cabinets
Will polyurethane casters damage an epoxy garage floor?Casters and Mobility on Roller Cabinets
What is a kingpinless caster and do I need one?Casters and Mobility on Roller Cabinets
Should all four casters swivel?Casters and Mobility on Roller Cabinets
Why do my caster wheels have flat spots?Casters and Mobility on Roller Cabinets
Can I upgrade the casters on my tool box?Casters and Mobility on Roller Cabinets
What does durometer mean on a caster wheel?Casters and Mobility on Roller Cabinets
Why does my tool box drawer slide open by itself?Why Won't My Tool Chest Drawer Stay Closed?
How do I level a tool chest on a sloped garage floor?Why Won't My Tool Chest Drawer Stay Closed?
Can I replace the plastic catch on the back of a tool chest drawer?Why Won't My Tool Chest Drawer Stay Closed?
Do magnets work to keep tool box drawers closed?Why Won't My Tool Chest Drawer Stay Closed?
Why does my Snap-on drawer pop out about an inch?Why Won't My Tool Chest Drawer Stay Closed?
Will lubricating the slides stop a drawer rolling open?Why Won't My Tool Chest Drawer Stay Closed?
Do I need a top chest at all?Top Chest vs Roller Cabinet vs Side Locker
Is a 72 inch tool box taller than a 56 inch one?Top Chest vs Roller Cabinet vs Side Locker
What is the difference between an intermediate chest and a riser?Top Chest vs Roller Cabinet vs Side Locker
Is a side locker better than a second cabinet?Top Chest vs Roller Cabinet vs Side Locker
Can any top chest sit on any roller cabinet?Top Chest vs Roller Cabinet vs Side Locker
What is an end cap for?Top Chest vs Roller Cabinet vs Side Locker
Can I move my tool box with the tools still in it?How Do You Move a Loaded Tool Chest Without Wrecking It?
Can I take the drawers out with the tools still in them?How Do You Move a Loaded Tool Chest Without Wrecking It?
Should I strap the top chest to the roller cabinet for a move?How Do You Move a Loaded Tool Chest Without Wrecking It?
Is a liftgate or a ramp trailer better for a tool box?How Do You Move a Loaded Tool Chest Without Wrecking It?
How many straps does a tool box need in a trailer?How Do You Move a Loaded Tool Chest Without Wrecking It?
Do I lock the casters in the truck?How Do You Move a Loaded Tool Chest Without Wrecking It?
Why does my cabinet say 2,000 lb when the drawers only add up to 1,000 lb?Tool Box Load Capacity, Honestly Explained
What actually fails first on an overloaded tool box?Tool Box Load Capacity, Honestly Explained
How much does a fully loaded 41 in roller cabinet weigh?Tool Box Load Capacity, Honestly Explained
Do I need to bolt a tool box to the wall?Tool Box Load Capacity, Honestly Explained
Is it bad to leave heavy drawers loaded for years?Tool Box Load Capacity, Honestly Explained
Where should the heaviest tools go?Tool Box Load Capacity, Honestly Explained
How much should I pay for a used Snap-on box?Buying a Used Tool Box: Inspection and Price Guide
Does a tool box warranty transfer to me?Buying a Used Tool Box: Inspection and Price Guide
How do I know a used box is not still being financed?Buying a Used Tool Box: Inspection and Price Guide
Is a used Harbor Freight box worth buying?Buying a Used Tool Box: Inspection and Price Guide
What defect should make me walk away?Buying a Used Tool Box: Inspection and Price Guide
Can I get keys made if the seller lost them?Buying a Used Tool Box: Inspection and Price Guide
What does the 41 in on a tool chest actually measure?Tool Chest Sizes: 26, 41, 46, 52, 55 and 72 Inch
Is a deeper tool box better than a wider one?Tool Chest Sizes: 26, 41, 46, 52, 55 and 72 Inch
Will a 41 in tool box fit through a standard doorway?Tool Chest Sizes: 26, 41, 46, 52, 55 and 72 Inch
How much space do I need in front of a roller cabinet?Tool Chest Sizes: 26, 41, 46, 52, 55 and 72 Inch
What is the difference between a single, double and triple bank?Tool Chest Sizes: 26, 41, 46, 52, 55 and 72 Inch
Are 26 in tool boxes worth buying?Tool Chest Sizes: 26, 41, 46, 52, 55 and 72 Inch
What height should the work top be?Tool Chest Sizes: 26, 41, 46, 52, 55 and 72 Inch
Is a premium tool box actually better built?Where the Money Goes: Budget vs Premium Tool Boxes
What steel gauge should I look for?Where the Money Goes: Budget vs Premium Tool Boxes
Are 100 lb drawer slides enough?Where the Money Goes: Budget vs Premium Tool Boxes
Is tool truck financing interest free?Where the Money Goes: Budget vs Premium Tool Boxes
Does a lifetime warranty on a tool box mean much?Where the Money Goes: Budget vs Premium Tool Boxes
What is the best value tier?Where the Money Goes: Budget vs Premium Tool Boxes

Modular Stacking Tool Box Systems

Packout, ToughSystem, Systainer and everything that clicks onto them.

Which modular tool box system is best overall?Packout vs ToughSystem vs Systainer vs the Rest
Is Packout stronger than ToughSystem?Packout vs ToughSystem vs Systainer vs the Rest
Why does Festool publish such low load ratings?Packout vs ToughSystem vs Systainer vs the Rest
Is the value tier worth it?Packout vs ToughSystem vs Systainer vs the Rest
Which system is best for a van?Packout vs ToughSystem vs Systainer vs the Rest
Can I run two systems at once?Packout vs ToughSystem vs Systainer vs the Rest
Do Systainer and L-BOXX stack together?Cross-Brand Modular Box Compatibility
Does Makita MakPac fit Festool Systainer?Cross-Brand Modular Box Compatibility
Can I stack Packout on ToughSystem?Cross-Brand Modular Box Compatibility
What is a riser or adapter plate?Cross-Brand Modular Box Compatibility
Are 3D printed adapters safe to use?Cross-Brand Modular Box Compatibility
Does DeWalt TSTAK stack on ToughSystem?Cross-Brand Modular Box Compatibility
What is the Packout footprint?Milwaukee Packout, Complete System Guide
Is Packout actually waterproof?Milwaukee Packout, Complete System Guide
How high can you stack Packout?Milwaukee Packout, Complete System Guide
Does the Packout rolling tool box hold 250 lb?Milwaukee Packout, Complete System Guide
What should a new Packout buyer purchase first?Milwaukee Packout, Complete System Guide
Do Packout boxes work with other brands?Milwaukee Packout, Complete System Guide
Is ToughSystem 2.0 compatible with the original ToughSystem?DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0, Complete System Guide
Does TSTAK stack on ToughSystem?DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0, Complete System Guide
What does IP65 mean on a ToughSystem box?DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0, Complete System Guide
How much does the ToughSystem 2.0 rolling box carry?DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0, Complete System Guide
Is ToughSystem 2.0 more space efficient than Packout?DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0, Complete System Guide
Which ToughSystem 2.0 box should you buy first?DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0, Complete System Guide
What does the 137 in Systainer3 M 137 mean?Systainer3 and the Tanos Ecosystem
Do Systainer3 boxes stack with older T-LOC and Classic Systainers?Systainer3 and the Tanos Ecosystem
Is a Systainer3 the same footprint as a Milwaukee Packout?Systainer3 and the Tanos Ecosystem
How much weight can a Systainer3 hold?Systainer3 and the Tanos Ecosystem
What is a SYS-Dock?Systainer3 and the Tanos Ecosystem
Are Festool and Tanos Systainers different products?Systainer3 and the Tanos Ecosystem
Is Ridgid Pro Gear 2.0 still being expanded?Ridgid 2.0, Bosch and the Value Tier
What happened to Husky Build-Out?Ridgid 2.0, Bosch and the Value Tier
Do value boxes really hit IP65?Ridgid 2.0, Bosch and the Value Tier
Are value modular boxes safe to stack in a van?Ridgid 2.0, Bosch and the Value Tier
Can I mix a value system with Packout or ToughSystem?Ridgid 2.0, Bosch and the Value Tier
Is Bosch a value system or a premium system?Ridgid 2.0, Bosch and the Value Tier
Is IP67 better than IP65 on a tool box?IP Ratings on Tool Boxes, What IP54 and IP65 Buy You
What does IP54 actually protect against?IP Ratings on Tool Boxes, What IP54 and IP65 Buy You
Why did my IP65 box leak?IP Ratings on Tool Boxes, What IP54 and IP65 Buy You
What does water resistant mean when there is no IP number?IP Ratings on Tool Boxes, What IP54 and IP65 Buy You
Should I put desiccant in a sealed tool box?IP Ratings on Tool Boxes, What IP54 and IP65 Buy You
Can I pressure wash a box rated IP65?IP Ratings on Tool Boxes, What IP54 and IP65 Buy You
Do I really need to bolt down modular boxes if they are latched together?Mounting Modular Boxes in a Van
Are rivet nuts strong enough for van racking?Mounting Modular Boxes in a Van
Does FMCSA cargo securement apply to my service van?Mounting Modular Boxes in a Van
Where should heavy boxes go in a van?Mounting Modular Boxes in a Van
Is a bulkhead enough on its own?Mounting Modular Boxes in a Van
Should I buy manufacturer racking or build my own?Mounting Modular Boxes in a Van

Portable Tool Boxes and Tool Bags

Fabric, latches, hinges and the weight you carry all day.

Is 1680D always better than 1000D?Tool Bag Fabrics: Denier, Ballistic Nylon and Bases
What does ballistic nylon mean on a tool bag?Tool Bag Fabrics: Denier, Ballistic Nylon and Bases
Do I need a waterproof tool bag?Tool Bag Fabrics: Denier, Ballistic Nylon and Bases
Which zipper should a tool bag use?Tool Bag Fabrics: Denier, Ballistic Nylon and Bases
How long should a good tool bag last?Tool Bag Fabrics: Denier, Ballistic Nylon and Bases
What is a cantilever tool box?Cantilever, Tote and Tray Boxes Compared
Is a steel tool box still worth buying?Cantilever, Tote and Tray Boxes Compared
Are rolling tool totes worth it?Cantilever, Tote and Tray Boxes Compared
What is a bucket organizer good for?Cantilever, Tote and Tray Boxes Compared
How heavy should a hand-carried tool box be?Cantilever, Tote and Tray Boxes Compared
How much should a full electrician's tool bag weigh?The Electrician's Bag: A Weight-Budgeted Kit
Pouch, bag or backpack for electrical work?The Electrician's Bag: A Weight-Budgeted Kit
What is the two-bag strategy?The Electrician's Bag: A Weight-Budgeted Kit
Should I organize a bag by tool type or by task?The Electrician's Bag: A Weight-Budgeted Kit
What is the first thing to cut when a bag is too heavy?The Electrician's Bag: A Weight-Budgeted Kit
Why do plumbers use a hard case and a soft bag together?The Plumber's Bag and Service Box
How do I stop tools rusting after a drain call?The Plumber's Bag and Service Box
What should a plumbing service bag weigh?The Plumber's Bag and Service Box
Can I keep flux and solder in a fabric tool bag?The Plumber's Bag and Service Box
Rough-in kit or service kit, which do I build first?The Plumber's Bag and Service Box
What is the most common failure on a plastic tool box?Hand-Carry Tool Boxes: Latches, Hinges and Gaskets
Are metal latches always better than plastic?Hand-Carry Tool Boxes: Latches, Hinges and Gaskets
How long does a living hinge last?Hand-Carry Tool Boxes: Latches, Hinges and Gaskets
Do I need a gasketed tool box?Hand-Carry Tool Boxes: Latches, Hinges and Gaskets
What is compression set on a gasket?Hand-Carry Tool Boxes: Latches, Hinges and Gaskets
Is a tool backpack better than a tool bag?Tool Backpacks vs Bags: The Load Ergonomics
How much should a tool backpack weigh loaded?Tool Backpacks vs Bags: The Load Ergonomics
Why does everything end up at the bottom of a tool backpack?Tool Backpacks vs Bags: The Load Ergonomics
Do tool backpacks have real hip belts?Tool Backpacks vs Bags: The Load Ergonomics
Should I wear a tool backpack on a ladder?Tool Backpacks vs Bags: The Load Ergonomics

Truck Boxes and Jobsite Storage

Fit, materials, payload and security for storage that lives outside.

What is the difference between a crossover box and a saddle box?Crossover, Side Mount, Chest and Low Profile
Will a low profile box fit under my tonneau cover?Crossover, Side Mount, Chest and Low Profile
Do I need a crossover box or a chest box for a short bed?Crossover, Side Mount, Chest and Low Profile
Are wheel well boxes worth it?Crossover, Side Mount, Chest and Low Profile
Can a hitch cargo carrier replace a tool box?Crossover, Side Mount, Chest and Low Profile
What is the single most important truck bed measurement for a tool box?How to Measure a Truck Bed for a Tool Box
Do I measure the bed with the liner in or out?How to Measure a Truck Bed for a Tool Box
How do I know if the lid will hit my rear window?How to Measure a Truck Bed for a Tool Box
Is a 5.5 ft bed measured at the floor or at the rail?How to Measure a Truck Bed for a Tool Box
Can I trust the fitment filter on a retailer site?How to Measure a Truck Bed for a Tool Box
Do I have to drill my truck bed to install a crossover tool box?Do J-Hooks Hold a Crossover Tool Box, or Must You Drill the Rails?
Are J-hooks strong enough to hold a crossover tool box?Do J-Hooks Hold a Crossover Tool Box, or Must You Drill the Rails?
How tight should crossover tool box J-hook nuts be?Do J-Hooks Hold a Crossover Tool Box, or Must You Drill the Rails?
Will a no-drill mounting kit void my tool box warranty?Do J-Hooks Hold a Crossover Tool Box, or Must You Drill the Rails?
How often should I retighten tool box mounting bolts?Do J-Hooks Hold a Crossover Tool Box, or Must You Drill the Rails?
Should I seal holes drilled in my truck bed?Do J-Hooks Hold a Crossover Tool Box, or Must You Drill the Rails?
Is aluminum or steel better for a truck tool box?Aluminum vs Steel vs Polymer Truck Boxes
What does 0.063 aluminum mean on a truck box spec?Aluminum vs Steel vs Polymer Truck Boxes
Do aluminum tool boxes corrode on a steel truck bed?Aluminum vs Steel vs Polymer Truck Boxes
Are polymer truck boxes any good?Aluminum vs Steel vs Polymer Truck Boxes
Can a dented aluminum truck box be repaired?Aluminum vs Steel vs Polymer Truck Boxes
What lock should I use on a jobsite gang box?Jobsite Box Security: Locks, Anchors and Layers
Can a jobsite box be bolted to a concrete slab?Jobsite Box Security: Locks, Anchors and Layers
Are chains and cables worth using?Jobsite Box Security: Locks, Anchors and Layers
Do GPS trackers stop tool theft?Jobsite Box Security: Locks, Anchors and Layers
How long should a jobsite box hold up an intruder?Jobsite Box Security: Locks, Anchors and Layers
Does a tool box count against payload?Truck Box Weight, Payload and Fuel Cost
Where does the door jamb payload number come from?Truck Box Weight, Payload and Fuel Cost
Why does my rear axle overload before my payload does?Truck Box Weight, Payload and Fuel Cost
How much fuel does a truck tool box cost me?Truck Box Weight, Payload and Fuel Cost
How do I weigh my loaded truck?Truck Box Weight, Payload and Fuel Cost
Is it legal to carry a gas can in a truck tool box?Can You Keep a Gas Can in a Truck Tool Box?
Why do truck tool box manufacturers say not to store gasoline in them?Can You Keep a Gas Can in a Truck Tool Box?
How much gasoline can I carry in my work truck without hazmat paperwork?Can You Keep a Gas Can in a Truck Tool Box?
Do the hazmat rules apply to my personal truck?Can You Keep a Gas Can in a Truck Tool Box?
Where should a gas can ride in a pickup?Can You Keep a Gas Can in a Truck Tool Box?
Why is my truck tool box wet inside when it has not rained?Why Is There Water in My Truck Tool Box?
Are truck tool boxes supposed to be waterproof?Why Is There Water in My Truck Tool Box?
How do I adjust the striker on a truck tool box?Why Is There Water in My Truck Tool Box?
How do I find where water gets into my tool box?Why Is There Water in My Truck Tool Box?
Can I replace the weather stripping on a truck tool box?Why Is There Water in My Truck Tool Box?
Should I drill drain holes in my truck tool box?Why Is There Water in My Truck Tool Box?
Can I put a tonneau cover over my existing tool box?Tonneau Covers and Tool Boxes Together
What size tool box do toolbox-compatible covers fit?Tonneau Covers and Tool Boxes Together
Will water get in where the cover meets the tool box?Tonneau Covers and Tool Boxes Together
Does a tonneau cover make my tools more secure?Tonneau Covers and Tool Boxes Together
Should I install the tool box or the tonneau cover first?Tonneau Covers and Tool Boxes Together
Is the force printed on a gas strut per strut or per pair?What Size Gas Strut Does a Truck Tool Box Lid Need?
Why does my tool box lid fall shut in winter but work in summer?What Size Gas Strut Does a Truck Tool Box Lid Need?
Can I fit a stronger strut than the original?What Size Gas Strut Does a Truck Tool Box Lid Need?
What does 8/18 mean on a gas strut?What Size Gas Strut Does a Truck Tool Box Lid Need?
How do I measure a gas strut that is still on the truck?What Size Gas Strut Does a Truck Tool Box Lid Need?
Which way up should a tool box strut go?What Size Gas Strut Does a Truck Tool Box Lid Need?

Drawer Layout, Foam and Organizers

Foam, rails, liners and layout that survives a real week of work.

How thick should kaizen foam be for a tool drawer?Kaizen Foam and Shadow Foam: The Complete Method
Can you cut kaizen foam with a hot knife?Kaizen Foam and Shadow Foam: The Complete Method
What is the difference between kaizen foam and shadow foam?Kaizen Foam and Shadow Foam: The Complete Method
Do I need to glue the foam into the drawer?Kaizen Foam and Shadow Foam: The Complete Method
Why does my pocket floor keep tearing?Kaizen Foam and Shadow Foam: The Complete Method
How many sockets fit on a socket rail?Socket Organizers: Rails, Trays, Clips and Magnets
Do magnetic socket holders demagnetize tools?Socket Organizers: Rails, Trays, Clips and Magnets
Will socket rails survive a drawer slam?Socket Organizers: Rails, Trays, Clips and Magnets
Should I separate metric and SAE sockets?Socket Organizers: Rails, Trays, Clips and Magnets
Are 3D printed socket trays worth it?Socket Organizers: Rails, Trays, Clips and Magnets
What is the best tool drawer liner material?Drawer Liners Compared: Material, Grip and Chemistry
Do drawer liners cause rust?Drawer Liners Compared: Material, Grip and Chemistry
Will brake cleaner damage a drawer liner?Drawer Liners Compared: Material, Grip and Chemistry
How thick should a drawer liner be?Drawer Liners Compared: Material, Grip and Chemistry
Should I glue the liner down?Drawer Liners Compared: Material, Grip and Chemistry
How much drawer space does a metric wrench set need?Wrench Organizers and Roll Formats
Are magnetic wrench holders strong enough?Wrench Organizers and Roll Formats
Should I store wrenches by size or by type?Wrench Organizers and Roll Formats
Do wrench racks work if my set grows?Wrench Organizers and Roll Formats
Is a wrench roll better than a drawer tray?Wrench Organizers and Roll Formats
Why do tool cabinets tip forward instead of sideways?Drawer Weight Distribution and Tip-Over
How much weight can I put in a top drawer safely?Drawer Weight Distribution and Tip-Over
What is a drawer interlock and do I need one?Drawer Weight Distribution and Tip-Over
Should casters be locked or unlocked when I open a drawer?Drawer Weight Distribution and Tip-Over
Does a loaded bottom drawer really prevent tipping?Drawer Weight Distribution and Tip-Over
What label material survives brake cleaner and heat?Shadow Boards, Labels and Tool Inventory Control
How big should drawer labels be?Shadow Boards, Labels and Tool Inventory Control
What is the difference between a shadow board and foam shadowing?Shadow Boards, Labels and Tool Inventory Control
How do small shops do tool check-out without software?Shadow Boards, Labels and Tool Inventory Control
Should I barcode individual hand tools?Shadow Boards, Labels and Tool Inventory Control
How should I sort a large fastener inventory?Small Parts, Fasteners and Assortment Cases
Why do parts move between compartments in a sealed organizer?Small Parts, Fasteners and Assortment Cases
Are hardware assortments worth buying?Small Parts, Fasteners and Assortment Cases
What size bin should I use for fasteners?Small Parts, Fasteners and Assortment Cases
Should I keep fasteners in the toolbox or on the wall?Small Parts, Fasteners and Assortment Cases

Shop and Garage Storage Systems

Walls, ceilings, benches and the clearances that govern a layout.

Which wall system holds the most weight?French Cleat vs Pegboard vs Slatwall vs Track Wall
Is pegboard strong enough for a mechanic's wall?French Cleat vs Pegboard vs Slatwall vs Track Wall
Can I mix systems on one wall?French Cleat vs Pegboard vs Slatwall vs Track Wall
Does slatwall need to hit studs?French Cleat vs Pegboard vs Slatwall vs Track Wall
What works best in a rented garage?French Cleat vs Pegboard vs Slatwall vs Track Wall
How much weight can one pegboard hook hold?Pegboard Load Limits and How to Not Rip It Off the Wall
Do I really need furring strips behind pegboard?Pegboard Load Limits and How to Not Rip It Off the Wall
Is 1/4 in pegboard worth the extra cost over 1/8 in?Pegboard Load Limits and How to Not Rip It Off the Wall
Why do my pegboard hooks keep falling out when I grab the tool?Pegboard Load Limits and How to Not Rip It Off the Wall
Does humidity really damage pegboard?Pegboard Load Limits and How to Not Rip It Off the Wall
Can pegboard be mounted directly to studs without drywall?Pegboard Load Limits and How to Not Rip It Off the Wall
How much clearance do I need in front of a rolling tool cabinet?Garage Shop Layout: Zones, Clearances and Flow
Can I store anything in front of the electrical panel?Garage Shop Layout: Zones, Clearances and Flow
What is the minimum aisle width in a garage shop?Garage Shop Layout: Zones, Clearances and Flow
Should the workbench go on the back wall or a side wall?Garage Shop Layout: Zones, Clearances and Flow
How do I keep a two-car garage usable as a shop?Garage Shop Layout: Zones, Clearances and Flow
Can I hang an overhead rack from roof trusses?Overhead Racks and Shelving: Load and Safety
How much weight can my garage ceiling hold?Overhead Racks and Shelving: Load and Safety
What size lag screws should an overhead rack use?Overhead Racks and Shelving: Load and Safety
Are drywall anchors ever acceptable for overhead storage?Overhead Racks and Shelving: Load and Safety
What should never go on an overhead rack?Overhead Racks and Shelving: Load and Safety
Do freestanding shelves need to be anchored to the wall?Overhead Racks and Shelving: Load and Safety
Can I put a vise on a rolling workbench?Mobile Workbenches vs Tool Carts
What is the best work surface for a mobile bench?Mobile Workbenches vs Tool Carts
Why does my rolling cart move when I hammer on it?Mobile Workbenches vs Tool Carts
Is a modular box cart a substitute for a tool cart?Mobile Workbenches vs Tool Carts
How tall should a mobile workbench be?Mobile Workbenches vs Tool Carts
Should a shop bench roll at all?Mobile Workbenches vs Tool Carts
How long can 7018 rods stay out of the oven?How Should You Store 7018 Welding Rods Once the Can Is Open?
What temperature should a 7018 rod oven be set to?How Should You Store 7018 Welding Rods Once the Can Is Open?
What temperature do you redry 7018 at?How Should You Store 7018 Welding Rods Once the Can Is Open?
Can I store 7018 in a PVC tube with desiccant instead of an oven?How Should You Store 7018 Welding Rods Once the Can Is Open?
How do you know if 7018 rods are wet?How Should You Store 7018 Welding Rods Once the Can Is Open?
Can I redry 7018 rods that got rained on?How Should You Store 7018 Welding Rods Once the Can Is Open?
Can oxygen and acetylene be stored together on a cart?Do Oxygen and Acetylene Tanks Have to Be Stored 20 Feet Apart?
What kind of barrier can separate oxygen and acetylene cylinders?Do Oxygen and Acetylene Tanks Have to Be Stored 20 Feet Apart?
How long should an acetylene cylinder stand upright before use?Do Oxygen and Acetylene Tanks Have to Be Stored 20 Feet Apart?
Can I keep spare welding gas cylinders in my garage?Do Oxygen and Acetylene Tanks Have to Be Stored 20 Feet Apart?
Do argon and CO2 cylinders have to be separated from oxygen?Do Oxygen and Acetylene Tanks Have to Be Stored 20 Feet Apart?
Is an empty acetylene cylinder still dangerous to store?Do Oxygen and Acetylene Tanks Have to Be Stored 20 Feet Apart?
Should the bungs be in or out on a flammable cabinet?Does a Flammable Storage Cabinet Need to Be Vented?
Does OSHA require flammable cabinets to be vented?Does a Flammable Storage Cabinet Need to Be Vented?
Why do flammable cabinets have vents if you are not supposed to use them?Does a Flammable Storage Cabinet Need to Be Vented?
Can I vent a flammable cabinet into the garage or shop?Does a Flammable Storage Cabinet Need to Be Vented?
Is the flame arrester behind the vent enough to leave it open?Does a Flammable Storage Cabinet Need to Be Vented?
How much gasoline can I keep in a garage without a cabinet?Does a Flammable Storage Cabinet Need to Be Vented?
How long do cut-off wheels last in storage?Do Cut-Off Wheels Expire, and How Should You Store Them?
Where is the expiration date on a cut-off wheel?Do Cut-Off Wheels Expire, and How Should You Store Them?
Is it dangerous to use an expired cut-off wheel?Do Cut-Off Wheels Expire, and How Should You Store Them?
Do flap discs and fiber discs expire?Do Cut-Off Wheels Expire, and How Should You Store Them?
Can I keep spare cut-off wheels in my truck tool box?Do Cut-Off Wheels Expire, and How Should You Store Them?
Does the ring test work on cut-off wheels?Do Cut-Off Wheels Expire, and How Should You Store Them?
Can I hang garage cabinets with drywall anchors?What Screws Should You Use to Hang Garage Wall Cabinets?
Are lag screws better than cabinet screws for garage cabinets?What Screws Should You Use to Hang Garage Wall Cabinets?
How long should screws be for garage wall cabinets?What Screws Should You Use to Hang Garage Wall Cabinets?
How many screws does a garage wall cabinet need?What Screws Should You Use to Hang Garage Wall Cabinets?
What pilot hole should I drill for a lag screw into a stud?What Screws Should You Use to Hang Garage Wall Cabinets?
Do the same screws work for metal studs or a block wall?What Screws Should You Use to Hang Garage Wall Cabinets?
Is a 12 gauge extension cord OK for a 15 amp saw at 100 feet?What Gauge Extension Cord Does a 15 Amp Tool Need?
What gauge extension cord do I need for a 15 amp tool at 50 feet?What Gauge Extension Cord Does a 15 Amp Tool Need?
Is 10 gauge extension cord overkill for power tools?What Gauge Extension Cord Does a 15 Amp Tool Need?
Can I connect two 50 ft extension cords to make 100 ft?What Gauge Extension Cord Does a 15 Amp Tool Need?
Why do tool manuals and extension cord charts disagree?What Gauge Extension Cord Does a 15 Amp Tool Need?
Does a 15 amp tool on a 14 gauge cord at 50 feet hurt the tool?What Gauge Extension Cord Does a 15 Amp Tool Need?
Is 3/8 air hose OK for a 1/2 inch impact wrench?Is 3/8 Air Hose Big Enough for a 1/2 Inch Impact Wrench?
Can I run a 1/2 inch impact wrench on a 1/4 inch air hose?Is 3/8 Air Hose Big Enough for a 1/2 Inch Impact Wrench?
How much pressure do you lose in a 50 ft 3/8 air hose?Is 3/8 Air Hose Big Enough for a 1/2 Inch Impact Wrench?
What CFM does a 1/2 inch impact wrench use?Is 3/8 Air Hose Big Enough for a 1/2 Inch Impact Wrench?
Does a longer air hose reduce impact wrench power?Is 3/8 Air Hose Big Enough for a 1/2 Inch Impact Wrench?
Should I just turn up the regulator to make up for hose loss?Is 3/8 Air Hose Big Enough for a 1/2 Inch Impact Wrench?
Does a bigger tank make an air compressor more powerful?Does a Bigger Air Compressor Tank Give You More CFM?
Is a 20 gallon compressor better than a 6 gallon?Does a Bigger Air Compressor Tank Give You More CFM?
How long will a 60 gallon compressor run an impact wrench?Does a Bigger Air Compressor Tank Give You More CFM?
What size air compressor tank do I need?Does a Bigger Air Compressor Tank Give You More CFM?
Does tank size affect air compressor duty cycle?Does a Bigger Air Compressor Tank Give You More CFM?
Why does my small compressor run constantly with an air tool?Does a Bigger Air Compressor Tank Give You More CFM?
Can I put a 4-1/2 inch cut-off wheel on a 5 inch angle grinder?Can You Use a 4-1/2 Inch Cut-Off Wheel on a 5 Inch Grinder?
Can I use a 5 inch wheel on a 4-1/2 inch grinder?Can You Use a 4-1/2 Inch Cut-Off Wheel on a 5 Inch Grinder?
Is it OK to use a worn down 6 inch wheel on a 4-1/2 inch grinder?Can You Use a 4-1/2 Inch Cut-Off Wheel on a 5 Inch Grinder?
What RPM is a 4-1/2 inch cut-off wheel rated for?Can You Use a 4-1/2 Inch Cut-Off Wheel on a 5 Inch Grinder?
Do I need a special guard for cut-off wheels?Can You Use a 4-1/2 Inch Cut-Off Wheel on a 5 Inch Grinder?
Can I put a 10 inch blade on a 12 inch miter saw?Can You Use a 10 Inch Blade on a 12 Inch Miter Saw?
Does a 10 inch blade spin faster than a 12 inch blade?Can You Use a 10 Inch Blade on a 12 Inch Miter Saw?
Will a 10 inch blade with a 5/8 arbor fit a 12 inch miter saw?Can You Use a 10 Inch Blade on a 12 Inch Miter Saw?
What RPM blade do I need for a 12 inch miter saw?Can You Use a 10 Inch Blade on a 12 Inch Miter Saw?
Why won't my miter saw cut all the way through after changing blades?Can You Use a 10 Inch Blade on a 12 Inch Miter Saw?
Will a 3500 watt generator run a table saw?What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a 15 Amp Table Saw?
Can a 2200 watt inverter generator run a table saw?What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a 15 Amp Table Saw?
How many watts does a 10 inch table saw use?What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a 15 Amp Table Saw?
Why do generator charts say a table saw needs 6,300 watts to start?What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a 15 Amp Table Saw?
How many watts does a circular saw need on a generator?What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a 15 Amp Table Saw?
Does an extension cord from the generator matter?What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a 15 Amp Table Saw?

Rust, Locks, Security and Care

Keeping the contents dry, present and insured.

What humidity level stops tools from rusting?Rust Prevention in Tool Storage: Humidity, VCI and Desiccant
Does a sealed tool box prevent rust?Rust Prevention in Tool Storage: Humidity, VCI and Desiccant
How long does a VCI emitter last in a tool chest?Rust Prevention in Tool Storage: Humidity, VCI and Desiccant
Can I reuse silica gel packets?Rust Prevention in Tool Storage: Humidity, VCI and Desiccant
Is WD-40 a rust preventive?Rust Prevention in Tool Storage: Humidity, VCI and Desiccant
Do drawer liners cause rust?Rust Prevention in Tool Storage: Humidity, VCI and Desiccant
Can I leave my drill batteries in the truck overnight?Can You Leave Tool Batteries in a Truck Box or Cold Garage?
What temperature is too hot for a lithium tool battery in storage?Can You Leave Tool Batteries in a Truck Box or Cold Garage?
Is it bad to store tool batteries in a cold garage?Can You Leave Tool Batteries in a Truck Box or Cold Garage?
Should I store tool batteries at 40 percent charge?Can You Leave Tool Batteries in a Truck Box or Cold Garage?
Can I leave batteries on the charger all the time?Can You Leave Tool Batteries in a Truck Box or Cold Garage?
Why won't my battery charge in the cold?Can You Leave Tool Batteries in a Truck Box or Cold Garage?
Is a DeWalt 20V battery the same as an 18V battery?Is 20V MAX the Same as 18V?
Is 20V more powerful than 18V?Is 20V MAX the Same as 18V?
Why does DeWalt call it 20V in the US and 18V elsewhere?Is 20V MAX the Same as 18V?
Can I use a 20V MAX battery in an old DeWalt 18V tool?Is 20V MAX the Same as 18V?
Is a 24V battery better than a 20V battery?Is 20V MAX the Same as 18V?
How do I compare batteries from different brands?Is 20V MAX the Same as 18V?
Should I turn my torque wrench all the way to zero?Should You Store a Torque Wrench at Zero or the Lowest Setting?
What happens if I left my torque wrench set at a high torque?Should You Store a Torque Wrench at Zero or the Lowest Setting?
What is the lowest setting on a torque wrench?Should You Store a Torque Wrench at Zero or the Lowest Setting?
Do beam or split beam torque wrenches need to be wound down?Should You Store a Torque Wrench at Zero or the Lowest Setting?
How often should a torque wrench be calibrated?Should You Store a Torque Wrench at Zero or the Lowest Setting?
Is it bad to store a torque wrench in a truck tool box?Should You Store a Torque Wrench at Zero or the Lowest Setting?
Are tool box locks actually secure?Tool Box Locks Explained: Tubular, Cam and Beyond
What is a tubular lock and why is it common on tool boxes?Tool Box Locks Explained: Tubular, Cam and Beyond
Can I rekey a tool box lock?Tool Box Locks Explained: Tubular, Cam and Beyond
I lost the key to my tool box. What are my options?Tool Box Locks Explained: Tubular, Cam and Beyond
Is a keyed-alike fleet a good idea?Tool Box Locks Explained: Tubular, Cam and Beyond
What padlock should I use on a tool box hasp?Tool Box Locks Explained: Tubular, Cam and Beyond
How likely am I to get stolen tools back?Tool Theft Prevention: Layers That Actually Work
Do GPS trackers in tool boxes work?Tool Theft Prevention: Layers That Actually Work
Should I put an AirTag or Tile in my tool box?Tool Theft Prevention: Layers That Actually Work
Does emptying the van at night really help?Tool Theft Prevention: Layers That Actually Work
Is marking tools worth the effort?Tool Theft Prevention: Layers That Actually Work
What should I do in the first hour after a theft?Tool Theft Prevention: Layers That Actually Work
Is it worth restoring an old tool box?Cleaning, Repairing and Refinishing a Tool Box
What removes decades of grease without damaging paint?Cleaning, Repairing and Refinishing a Tool Box
Should I use a rust converter or remove the rust?Cleaning, Repairing and Refinishing a Tool Box
Powder coat or liquid paint for a tool box?Cleaning, Repairing and Refinishing a Tool Box
Can I find drawer slides for a discontinued tool box?Cleaning, Repairing and Refinishing a Tool Box
How do I handle the original badges and decals?Cleaning, Repairing and Refinishing a Tool Box
Does my homeowners insurance cover my work tools?Tool Insurance and Keeping a Defensible Inventory
What is an inland marine tools and equipment floater?Tool Insurance and Keeping a Defensible Inventory
Actual cash value or replacement cost for hand tools?Tool Insurance and Keeping a Defensible Inventory
What proof will an adjuster accept?Tool Insurance and Keeping a Defensible Inventory
Who pays when an employee's tools are stolen from a company van?Tool Insurance and Keeping a Defensible Inventory
How often should I update the inventory?Tool Insurance and Keeping a Defensible Inventory
Can I bring a DeWalt 20V 5Ah battery on a plane?Can You Bring Power Tool Batteries on a Plane?
Can I put power tool batteries in checked luggage?Can You Bring Power Tool Batteries on a Plane?
Is a Milwaukee M18 12.0Ah battery allowed on a plane?Can You Bring Power Tool Batteries on a Plane?
How many tool batteries can I take on a plane?Can You Bring Power Tool Batteries on a Plane?
Does the FlexVolt transport cap make the battery legal to fly?Can You Bring Power Tool Batteries on a Plane?
Why does the label say 18V when the battery says 20V MAX?Can You Bring Power Tool Batteries on a Plane?

Calculators and planners

Questions about the arithmetic behind the tools.

Is a 100 lb drawer slide rating per slide or per pair?Drawer Load and Slide Rating Calculator
Why derate a published slide rating at all?Drawer Load and Slide Rating Calculator
What derating factor should I use for a service truck?Drawer Load and Slide Rating Calculator
My drawer sags but the slides still work. What failed?Drawer Load and Slide Rating Calculator
Does the calculator account for the whole cabinet?Drawer Load and Slide Rating Calculator
How much clearance does a tool chest need in front of it?Tool Box Fit and Clearance Planner
Will a 41 inch tool box fit in a single car garage?Tool Box Fit and Clearance Planner
What is a realistic aisle width in a home shop?Tool Box Fit and Clearance Planner
Do I need clearance behind a tool chest?Tool Box Fit and Clearance Planner
How do I get a large cabinet into the garage in the first place?Tool Box Fit and Clearance Planner
How thick should kaizen foam be for a tool drawer?Kaizen Foam Layer Calculator
How many layers should I leave as a base?Kaizen Foam Layer Calculator
Should tools sit flush with the foam or proud of it?Kaizen Foam Layer Calculator
Can I use kaizen foam in a truck box?Kaizen Foam Layer Calculator
How much foam do I need for a whole tool chest?Kaizen Foam Layer Calculator
How do I know what size crossover tool box I need?Truck Bed Tool Box Fit Finder
What is the difference between a low profile and a standard crossover box?Truck Bed Tool Box Fit Finder
How much bed space does a truck tool box take?Truck Bed Tool Box Fit Finder
Can I still haul plywood with a crossover box installed?Truck Bed Tool Box Fit Finder
Do I need to worry about the rear window when I open the lid?Truck Bed Tool Box Fit Finder
How thick is 16 gauge steel?Steel Gauge to Thickness Converter
Is 16 gauge or 18 gauge steel thicker?Steel Gauge to Thickness Converter
Why does gauge not convert the same way for aluminum?Steel Gauge to Thickness Converter
How much stiffer is thicker steel really?Steel Gauge to Thickness Converter
Should I buy a tool box based on its gauge?Steel Gauge to Thickness Converter
What is a reasonable cost per liter for tool storage?Storage Cost per Liter Calculator
Why use exterior dimensions instead of interior volume?Storage Cost per Liter Calculator
What usable volume factor should I use?Storage Cost per Liter Calculator
Does a low cost per liter mean a box is good value?Storage Cost per Liter Calculator

Not here?

Questions readers arrive with and cannot find an answer to are the most useful input this site gets, because they show where the coverage is genuinely thin rather than where we assumed it was. Send it through the contact page.