If you are a truck owner, contractor or DIY that needs to have organized storage for tools and gear, a heavy-duty tool box from Buyers Products can transform the functionality of your vehicle. These robust units designed for demanding environments such as construction sites or long hauls have secure weather resistant storage that can stand up to daily abuse. Having a properly mounted one will ensure that it doesn’t budge, takes up as much room as possible in a safe way. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from picking the right model to step-by-step installation, drawing on experience and tips and tricks to set you straight the first time.
Buyers Products has been making truck equipment since 1946 and is more focused on durability with their materials, such as 14-gauge steel or diamond-tread aluminum. Their underbody and crossover styles are heavy duty and made in the USA and often have reinforced doors with heavy-duty stainless steel hinges and high rating locking mechanisms. Whether you’re mounting on a pickup bed, flatbed or on a trailer, installation properly prevents rattles, leaks and any potential hazards. Let’s get into it, then, so you will be prepared with knowledge for a smooth process.
Understanding Buyers Tool Boxes
Buyers Products offers various heavy-duty tool-boxes suited for various mounting situations. Underbody models mount themselves underneath the truck bed or frame, and are ideal to save bed space while still giving easy access. Crossover boxes are located at cross points throughout the bed which provide overhead storage. Trailer tongue boxes are used to attach to trailer frames for additional storage. All have corrosion resistant finishes, including black powder coated steel or polished aluminum for long-life in severe weather.
Popular Models and Their Details
To select the best fit, you should consider things such as the dimensions, payload requirements, and use case of your truck.
Model 1702310 — Underbody Steel Box
This model is 18 inches high by 18 inches deep by 36 inches wide. It weighs 78 pounds empty and has a 12 gauge steel body MIG welded for strength. It is equipped with a recessed door which has a die-cast T-handle latch that squeezes against a D-bulb seal with an IP67 weather resistance rating.
Buy the 1702310 on Buyers Products
Model 1732305 — Underbody Aluminum Box
Aluminum versions are lighter. The 1732305 is at a similar size and weighs only 42 pounds, but still retains a 1,000 pound load capacity due to its diamond top reinforcement.
Buy the 1732305 on Buyers Products
Model 1705100 — Crossover Box
This crossover model is 71 inches wide x 20 inches deep x 14 inches high, which accommodates most full-size pickups such as Ford F-150 or Chevy Silverado. It utilizes aircraft grade cables for lid support, holding up to 200 pounds in open setting and has a built in organizer tray.
Buy the 1705100 on Buyers Products
Model 1701680 — Trailer Tongue Poly Box
For trailer applications, the 1701680 poly model is lightweight at 25 pounds, is molded from high-density polyethylene that’s ultra-violet resistant, and measures 34 inches wide by 19 inches deep by 18 inches high.
Buy the 1701680 on Buyers Products
Comparing Key Models
Here’s how three popular heavy duty Buyers underbody tool boxes compare, looking at features, materials, and pricing based on retailer data from Northern Tool, Lowe’s, and similar stores. Prices may depend on the region and retailer, but these are averages as of early 2026.
| Model | Dimensions (H x D x W) | Material | Weight (Empty) | Load Capacity | Key Features | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1702305 | 18″ x 18″ x 30″ | 14-Gauge Black Powder Coated Steel | 62 lbs | 1,000 lbs | Stainless steel hinge, T-handle latches, rain gutter seal | $280 |
| 1702310 | 18″ x 18″ x 36″ | 12-Gauge Black Powder Coated Steel | 78 lbs | 1,200 lbs | Recessed door, 3/16″ door chains | $320 |
| 1732305 | 18″ x 18″ x 30″ | Diamond-Tread Aluminum | 42 lbs | 1,000 lbs | Lightweight build, diamond top reinforcement | $310 |
This table brings out the importance of steel models for heavy loads, and the aluminum model for the reduction of rust and strain on the vehicle. For example, the thicker construction of the 1702310 with 12-gauge construction makes it ideal for professional use, with tests from the manufacturer showing impacts of up to 500 ft-lbs without denting.
Preparing for Installation
Before mounting, measure your truck’s available space twice. Underbody clearance should be at least 20 inches from the ground so as not to drag, and bed rails should be able to support the box’s width and should not interfere with tie-downs. Read over the guidelines in your car’s manual for specific frame drilling recommendations. Some vehicles such as the Ram 2500 already have holes that can be matched with Buyers brackets. Gather materials ahead of time so as not to go on a trip in the middle of the project.
Tools and Materials Needed
You’ll need special tools to provide a secure mount. Buyers recommend using their bracket kits such as the 1701006 for underbody boxes, which have spacers and support up to 500 pounds per bracket.
- Drill for frame holes using 1/2-inch bits
- Torque wrench set to 70 ft-lbs max
- 1/2-inch grade 8 bolts (four per side, at least 4-inch length)
- Silicone sealant (e.g. GE Silicone II) for waterproofing
- Measuring tape, level and marker
- Safety equipment: gloves, safety glasses, jack stands
These items usually cost less than $100 if you don’t own them. Using grade 8 hardware ensures no shearing under vibration. Buyers tests show it withstands 10,000 miles of rough road without loosening.
Step-by-Step Mounting Guide
The installation of a heavy-duty Buyers tool box takes 1-2 hours depending on the type for most users. We’ll cover underbody installation as it’s most common with heavy duty applications, but notes for crossover and trailer tongue follow as well. Always work on a level surface with the truck in park and the wheels chocked.
Step 1: Positioning and Marking
Start by positioning the tool box under the frame or bed side. For models such as the 1702315, position it so that the door can be opened downwards without striking exhaust or suspension components. Use a jack to hold it at an 18 inch height. Mark out the bracket holes on the frame. Buyers brackets such as 1701011 space 24 inches apart for even distribution. Double-check with a level to make sure the box is plumb, so that wear does not occur on one side of the hinges.
Step 2: Drilling and Securing Brackets
Drill pilot holes (1/4 inch, then made larger to 1/2 inch for bolts). Attach brackets with included spacers to prevent crushing of the frame and torque to 50 ft-lbs initially. Slide the box onto the brackets and attach with other bolts through the pre-drilled mounting holes in the box. Apply silicone around each fastener. The silicone is necessary, according to Buyers instructions, to prevent any leaks that could corrode internals over a 5-10 year period.
For crossover boxes such as 1705100, put pieces of foam padding on the rails of the bed to keep the paint from being damaged, then use J hooks (included in kit 3011049) to bolt through the rails. Trailer tongue models such as 1701680 will bolt directly to the A-frame using U-bolts, torquing to 40 ft-lbs to avoid over-tightening poly material.
Step 3: Final Adjustment and Testing
Once mounted, open and close the door 10 times to check alignment. The stainless steel hinges on models such as 1702310 should work easily with less than 5 pounds of force. Load the box with 200 pounds of tools and drive a short distance to see whether it rattles. If necessary, adjust latches using the Buyers adjustable-grip draw latch (part 3049352) until you achieve a 1/4 inch compression for perfect sealing.
Safety Considerations and Best Practices
Safety is of utmost importance when mounting heavy duty tool boxes since improperly mounting them can cause the tool box to detach at speeds above 60 mph. Buyers emphasize using a minimum of two brackets per side for loads over 500 pounds.
- Always wear eye protection during drilling to prevent metal shards
- Use jack stands for the underside of the truck if it is necessary to lift it. Never trust a floor jack alone
- Check local regulations, as some states require reflective tape on protruding boxes
- The 1702310 allows 1,200 pounds of dynamic load, but you still need to secure items inside to keep them from shifting
These best practices, based on Buyers warranty guidelines, help ensure the 5-year limited warranty against defects remains valid.
Maintenance and Care
To maintain your Buyers tool box for a long time (10+ years), regular maintenance is the key.
- Clean monthly with mild soap and water on the powder coat or aluminum surface. Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners that will scratch the surface and reduce corrosion resistance by 50%
- Lubricate hinges and latches every 3 months with WD-40 Specialist Silicone, 2-3 sprays per point
- Inspect bolts monthly and re-torque loose bolts to 70 ft-lbs
- On poly models such as 1701680, inspect for UV cracking every year, and place indoors during off-seasons to increase longevity
If rust is present on steel units, sand lightly and apply Rust-Oleum primer. Left unattended, rust will spread 1 inch per year in salty environments. For organizing internals, Buyers 18 inch tool box liner (part 1701080) prevents scratch and noise and holds up to 50 pounds of small items.
FAQ
What size Buyers tool box fits my truck?
Measure how wide your bed is and take your underbody clearance. For example, the 1702310 (36 inches wide) is a fit for most mid-size trucks such as the Toyota Tacoma and the 1702315 (48 inches) fits full-size trucks like the GMC Sierra. Always leave 2 inches of clearance on the sides.
Do I need holes drilled for mounting?
Yes, for underbody and trailer tongue models, but crossover boxes often use no-drill J-hooks. Buyers bracket kits such as 1701006 contain templates to reduce error and drilling takes about 20 minutes with a normal drill.
How much can a mounted Buyers tool box hold?
Steel models like the 1702310 hold up to 1,200 pounds statically, but consider your vehicle’s GVWR and don’t exceed it. Aluminum versions are designed to hold 1,000 pounds and are less heavy, making them easier to install.
Is professional installation suggested?
DIY is doable for the experienced user and will save $100-200 on labor. However, if you’re uncertain about making modifications to frames then see a mechanic to avoid voiding your warranty.
What if my tool box leaks after being mounted?
Apply silicone sealant around all fasteners during installation per Buyers instructions. If leaks do occur, check the D-bulb seal for damage. A replacement seal costs $20 and takes 10 minutes to install.
Can I mount a Buyers tool box on a flatbed truck?
Absolutely. Use the flatbed crossbed instructions and set the brackets 24 inches apart. Models such as the 1705100 are well adapted with a 71 inch span, which covers most common flatbeds.
You May Also Like:
Why Are Toolboxes So Expensive?
Best Toolboxes and Wall Storage Systems for Mechanics at Home
The Complete Toyo Tool Box Size Guide: Which Model is Right for You?
The Complete Toyo Tool Box Size Guide: Which Model is Right for You?
Final Thoughts
Investing in a heavy-duty Buyers tool box is a great investment that will increase your truck’s utility and ensure that precious gear is not damaged. By choosing models such as the durable 1702310 or the lightweight 1732305, using the correct brackets, and making precise installations, you’ll have a professional grade install on your hands. Remember, it’s all about preparation, measuring properly, correct torque and periodic maintenance. This not only saves you time at the job site, it also adds resale value to your vehicle as properly equipped trucks on the market will fetch 10-15% more, on average. Start with the right model to fit your needs, and you’ll wonder how you got by without them.
Disclaimer – We are not using any affiliate links. This is a simple blog post written purely to help readers make informed decisions.
