Long Shot Craftsman Tool Box Question

[Ayles]

Picked up an older toolbox today new in box from an estate sale. It's not huge but took two people to get out of my car. So wondering if it might be full. The problem is that its locked and didn't have a key.

The code on the lock face is W1001 and Sears says they are out of stock. So hoping someone might have that same lock and key combo so I can get a key made.

Will post a pics as there is no model info that I can see on the packaging or tool box itself.

[Hugh R]

https://m.alibaba.com/guide/shop/your-craftsman-toolbox-key-replaced_59386321.html

[BeyGon]

I wouldn't have the patience, I would drill it.

[masraum]

When you tilted it or if you tilt it, did crap shift or rattle inside?

I suspect it wouldn't be that hard to pick the lock. They usually aren't the most secure in the world, but probably a step up from a suitcase.

[Ayles]

It def makes noise, I am hesitant to drill as it's NOS condition. Does anyone know if tool sets were sold inside of tool boxes 30yrs ago?

[KFC911]

A competent locksmith could probably pick a simple lock like that in no time and once open, make you keys. Just an idea....

Me...I'd drill it

[masraum]

Originally Posted by Ayles

It def makes noise, I am hesitant to drill as it's NOS condition. Does anyone know if tool sets were sold inside of tool boxes 30yrs ago?

I think there were "sets" that you could buy that came with tools, but I'm not 100% positive.

Google seems to say yes.

http://www.searsoutlet.com/283-Piece-Mechanics-Tool-Set-with-Tool-Box/d/product_details.jsp?pid=27267&mode=seeAll

[MRM]

Technology has advanced so much that any locksmith could pick that lock blindfolded using his toothbrush without breaking a sweat. But it still might be easier to drill it out and replace it. Also, a larger legitimate locksmith might have access to Craftsman's Old codes. Cars all have codes and legitimate locksmiths have access to them. I'd think they could do the same for an old tool box. Back in the 60s there were only 10,000 combinations for GM ignition keys. It was common for people to have keys that worked on their neighbor's cars, or cars they saw in the parking lot and thought was theirs. Craftsman couldn't have used more combinations for their locks back then than GM. A semi decent locksmith can handle it one way or another.

[KFC911]

^^^^^ How many have Schlage master keys for their front door? Those 5 numbers printed on it are all you need to replicate it....they match the "pin sizes" for the lock.

[Joe Bob]

Should have a key number on the face of the lock, mine did.....not very secure....

[CurtEgerer]

I'd try to pick the lock first. Lots of step-by-step guides on YouTube. If it won't easily pick, I'd drill it out. New locks are available for cheap from Sears. It's not going to affect the value at all.

Tool Chest Lock | Part Number M12918A10SS | Sears PartsDirect

If all else fails .....

https://youtu.be/SEvomyYkIPY?t=2m17s


.

[Ayles]

[CurtEgerer]

Wow. Nice find. I have the identical box and was actually emptying it out today getting ready to sell it. Mine's plastered with stickers and wear. Pretty sure I bought it in the 1980s. I might even have the key.

[Ayles]

Any idea what the weight is? As it sits I can barely lift it.

[LWJ]

My buddy had that box in the mid 80's. Cool.

[CurtEgerer]

It must have tools in it. It does not weigh that much empty. I know I bought the box only. I can stop by my shop tomorrow and look for the key.

[Baz]

Wonder if those things have a generic key like lawn mowers? Worth checking out if you know anyone with one or maybe just buy one on eBay.

Can't wait to see what's inside that sucker!

Christmas came early!

[Ayles]

Originally Posted by CurtEgerer

It must have tools in it. It does not weigh that much empty. I know I bought the box only. I can stop by my shop tomorrow and look for the key.

Thanks! The code on the lock is w1001.

[pwd72s]

Checked the lock numbers on my rollaway...sorry, no match. Hell, I'd say it's worth the $20 spent on the link Hugh gave...nice looking chest.

[MRM]

They do have a generic key. They manufactured the keys and locks to have a certain number of combinations. Even so, a key from a different combination may be close enough to operate a different lock. There are probably a hundred or a thousand combinations (XXX or XXXX) and they're all probably pretty similar. If poking around for a few minutes isn't successful a swift hammer blow on a number 4 screwdriver would take care of it.