[Zathis]

I have seen a few pictures posted from people who have converted a tool box into a field box. Some people have used a standard style tool box, some have used the step stool style, and I even heard of one person using one of the big rolling workshop types!

I like the idea of converting a tool box for flight line use, but I am unsure of what direction I should go.

Would you please post some pictures of your conversions, including the inside (battery mounting/fuel storage) so I can get some ideas and decide what might work best for me?

Thank-you

Kerry Receveur

[Dr Wogz]

No pics, but I found a nice one at Canadian tire, two shelves / trays taht 'step' out when opened. Two 'CD bulk;' boxes (box of 10 CD/DVD) in teh bottom, aloong with my 12v gel cell battery. All fits, except fuel & pump (D. Brown 6-shooter). In fact, I lenthened teh starter cable, so teh battery never leaves the tool box!

The tool box even came with two removable little parts boxes, bot secure to teh top lid.

I've seen peopel bolt on their starter / power panels to teh outside. But since I dont use a power panel, I haven't had to hack it up!

I would reccomend painting teh shelves / trays white when you first get yours, as teh trays are usually black, and can 'hide' some tools..

[JimMcIntyre]

Ok... Stepstool toolbox; inexpensive Home Depot item, doubles as a seat when waiting in the starting box.

[JimMcIntyre]

Max 3 attachments .. next

[Zathis]

Jim,

I assume you are using a gel cell?

wouldn't a lead acid leak if straped to the bottom like that?

Kerry

[JimMcIntyre]

Yes, it's a gel cell.

It *is* strapped standing upright....and just clears the ground.

The important thing is to get the balance right. When balanced to the centre of the handle, it's quite comfortable to carry. This is important as some fields do have their parking lots some distance from the flightline ... (especially float flyers).

[Vulcan1]

I use the same box/seat/stool as Jim does. Had it for a long time but mine has the power panel and quick charger mounted on the front. I changed to a car battery for some of the setups but I like mine on the stand for weight. I also use a fishing tackle box for tools and parts. If you use one of these Jim has mentioned a few things but on mine I have the cables long enough for starting and charging. Just don't get them caught in the prop. My big charger has 8' cables. Plan it out and you will have it for years.
John

[Zathis]

John I noticed you have what looks to be some connectors or lights and switches mounted just above and to the right of the charger. What are these for?

Do you store fuel in the box as well or are you carrying that separate?

Kerry

[Vulcan1]

Kerry,
I have a couple of 12volt attachments on the upper right. The 2 center are banana plugs and the outers are 2 bolts for attaching my hd/starter with booster cable ends. The hole in the centre was for a 12/24 hookup to the extra plugs but not required now. As you mention it maybe I should put a master switch in. There is room inside for some heavier tools but I carry my fuel separate from everything. I use one gallon plastic fuel cans with manual pumps on them. One gas and one glow. These cans are more stable to me as they are wider on the base and of course won't short out. If you need any more info let me know.
John

[Zathis]

Well thanks for the tips on the tool box step stool idea guys, but I don't quite know if that is the way I want to go. I was kind of hoping for some ideas that would hold both the electical and fuel supply in one unit.

Any other tool box conversions out there?

Kerry