Bed-Side Tool Box Won't Open

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Subzero
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Bed-Side Tool Box Won't Open

Post by Subzero »

I have the Ranger with a tool box in the side of the bed. Today I tried to open it and the handle pulled out further than normal when I did and it will not open unless a very large amount of force is put on it.The handle still locks and moves but I think the latch on the backside may have something to do with it not opening.All of my best tools and safety gear I carry are locked up inside :( . After looking closely at it I think the metal tab may have gotten bent further down that the latch locks to. Any ideas on how I can fix it without damageing the latch?
1972 F100 Sport Custom-2WD, Aqua Blue and Wimbleton White, LWB, 302 V8 and C4 trans, P/S, P/B - under construction

Gone but not forgotten: 1968 F100 Ranger- 2WD, LWB, original rebuilt 360 V8, Autolite 2bbl carb, C6 Trans, Hedman Headers, Powermaster Racing Starter, H-Pipe and Glasspacks, P/S, P/B, A/C
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sargentrs
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Re: Bed-Side Tool Box Won't Open

Post by sargentrs »

You should have a little adjustment room on how high that plunger sticks up. If not, you might try shimming the latch or the keeper to make it a little easier.
Randy
1970 F100 Sport Custom Limited LWB, 302cid, 3 on the tree. NO A/C, NO P/S, NO P/B. Currently in 1000 pcs while rebuilding. Project thread: http://www.fordification.com/forum/view ... 22&t=59995 Plan: 351w, C4, LSD, pwr front disc, p/s, a/c, bucket seats, new interior and paint.
1987 F-150 XLT Lariat, 5.0/C6 auto.
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Subzero
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Re: Bed-Side Tool Box Won't Open

Post by Subzero »

I was able to get it right after awhile of messing with it. It could have gotten bent out some where the top latch is from me using it all the time :lol: . A hammer was able to bend it back a little more and its almost as good as it was. I'll have to see if I can adjust it as I didn't know it was adjustable besides the keeper point. Thanks
1972 F100 Sport Custom-2WD, Aqua Blue and Wimbleton White, LWB, 302 V8 and C4 trans, P/S, P/B - under construction

Gone but not forgotten: 1968 F100 Ranger- 2WD, LWB, original rebuilt 360 V8, Autolite 2bbl carb, C6 Trans, Hedman Headers, Powermaster Racing Starter, H-Pipe and Glasspacks, P/S, P/B, A/C
72BahamaBlue
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Re: Bed-Side Tool Box Won't Open

Post by 72BahamaBlue »

The striker (part that bolts onto the upper part of the box) has some adjustment.
Loosen the 2 fasteners, move inwards or outwards as needed, retighten.
It may also help to push on the door a bit before trying the latch. Might not hurt to remove the latch, disassemble, clean and lube it.
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