I'm probably using the wrong terms, but I thought that the 1972 (?) F-250 had an optional tool box on the outside of the bed on the passenger side. It was below the bed level. Does anyone know which year(s) had this available? And how did it work out - were tools or the compartment itself rusted or corroded?

Thanks in advance,

Hank Murphy
Currently truckless, previous 2005 F150XL, 1992 F150XLT, 1980 F150XLT, 1964 F100

 

First offered in 1964, the lockable tool boxes were an option through 1972, and could be used on either side. There are two sizes (lengths), and the boxes are year specific:

1964/66 F100/250 2WD: C4TZ-9946100-A .. short bed / C4TZ-9946100-B .. long bed

1967/72 F100/350 2 or 4WD: C7TZ-9946100-B .. short bed / C7TZ-9946100-A .. long bed

The outside perimeter of the tool box screwed to the bedside (8 #18 x 3/4" screws), underneath there were brackets that bolted from the toolbox to the bed.

An extruded neoprene gasket (C7TZ-9946102-A) was used between the door and the toolbox to keep the water out.

If a 1967/72 F100/350 had the optional left side 25 gallon auxillary fuel tank, the tool box could only be used on the right side.

The tool boxes could be ordered with the truck, or purchased as a kit from the parts counter.

The kit came with a paper template that could be taped to the trucks bedside, in order to cut the necessary holes.

 

I'm not sure if Mr Murphy means what I'm thinking or not, but I took it that he meant the built in box in front of the right rear tire. It has a lip formed in the metal of the side of the box and the door is hinged on the bottom and fits flush. I have a 71 with this and my Dad's 78 has it as well, but I'm not sure of the entire year range. I havn't seen any 80 or newer models with it.

My Dad lost his tire chains for about 3 years until I opened the side box one day and found them! The box in my 71 is narrower in the rear (next to the frame) so I hammer welded a tool box tapered (shorter on one end by about an inch and a half) so it would slide in lengthways so I could have the rest of the box for my 4 way, tow rope, etc. I always though it was really handy. The latch and lock were pretty cheesy, though. Made of pot metal and I had to find a new one a couple of times (junk yard).

 

Thanks for the info. Yes, I'm interested in the one in the body, not the in-bed accessories (although that was interesting information and thanks for posting it).

I was only driving my truck two days a week (one for class, one for church) and using my motorcycle for commuting the rest of the week. So, when my '05 F-150 went away, I started thinking about just getting a used truck for my occasional hauling - which is working out to only a couple of times a month nowadays - and using the bike for commuting. (My daughter's Mustang is also usually available as a backup while she is away at school.) So, since I'd always thought the tool box in the body was a neat feature, I just thought I'd ask.

But with the incentives now, a new truck is tempting. Decisions, decisions.

Thank you,

Hank Murphy
Currently truckless, previous 2005 F150XL, 1992 F150XLT, 1980 F150XLT, 1964 F100

 

The ones I listed above along with the original Ford part numbers are the type that fit into the quarter panels (bedsides)..in front of the rear wheels.

I listed the part numbers because the Ford dealer installed accessory tool boxes show up on ebay from time to time. The dealer installed tool boxes are identical to the factory installed toolboxes.

Since there were 4 types (2 for 64/66 & 2 for 67/72 = short Styleside beds used one length, long Styleside beds, another), having the part numbers assures one of getting the correct tool box.

I have the 1964/72 Ford Truck Parts Catalog illustrations for references, (1964/66 sheet metal section, page 7 / 1967/72 sheet metal section, page 8), and my '65 F100 has one on the right side = factory installed. I know this...because...I bought the truck brand new.

I didn't list the 1973/79 type.

There were other tool boxes available: 1969 thru 1972 (C9TZ-8146100-A). This tool box took the place of the in cab gas tank. This meant that the optional 25 gallon auxillary tank would be the only tank used.

Then there were the two "Contractors Special" tool boxes ('69/72) that mounted above the bed sides on either side. 8' Styleside beds only: 2-C9TZ-9946100-A.

New truck: Yesterday's San Gabriel Tribune newspaper ad (Buena Park Ford dealer): Special Presidents Day Weekend Sale. Now get an additional $1,000.00 off (+ the $4500.00 rebate): New 2008 F150 XLT Super Crew / 5.4 / tow package / the usual accessories...$21,778.00.

 

Hey Numberdummy--How is the flange around the opening made? I assumed it would have to be formed that way-ie, a different bedside. It's this flange that allows the door to fit flush. Just wondering--I wasn't aware that it was a dealer installed option. It would be nice to have a way to install one where there wasn't originally one. I changed the entire bed to get mine! (although it was a better bed anyway.)

 

1fordnatic---that looks great......I am restoring a 71 f100 and just got it running,and it was just painted. Now for all the detail work. I will probably install new inners and cab mounts this summer. Mine will be mostly stock but with stainledd duals and a nice newer stereo. Bill