Recently, I had the opportunity to see the behind-the-scenes workings of a Firestone Complete Auto Care. During a visit to our local store to get an alignment for Dan’s Jeep, we were able to see how these stores work and operate, and gained a unique perspective on what goes into the day-to-day operations. The experience provided us with a firsthand look at the dedicated professionals who make the service at Firestone so reliable. We met with several team members who shared insights about their roles, from technicians to customer service representatives.

This visit also allowed us to see that Firestone Complete Auto Care offers much more than I initially thought. Beyond just handling oil changes and tire rotations, their commitment to quality and comprehensive service was evident. The staff took their time to explain not only what they were doing but also why each step was important for the longevity and performance of the vehicle. For me, it was an eye-opener.  I was able to see how they truly work behind the scenes to get each job done right.

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About Firestone

Firestone Complete Auto Care, a cornerstone in the American automotive service industry, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1926. The company was founded as part of the broader Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, initiated by Harvey S. Firestone in Akron, Ohio, a significant hub in the rubber industry. Initially created to offer tire sales and service, the brand quickly expanded its offerings as the demand for comprehensive automotive maintenance grew. Throughout the 20th century, Firestone Complete Auto Care became synonymous with trusted service and quality automotive products, helping solidify its reputation as a go-to destination for car owners across the United States.

Over the decades, Firestone Complete Auto Care has adapted to the changing landscapes of technology and automotive design, offering a wide range of services from basic oil changes and tire installations to more complex mechanical repairs. It has consistently stayed ahead of automotive trends and innovations, ensuring its technicians are well-trained, and equipped with the latest tools. The commitment to customer service and excellence has been a constant theme throughout its history, reflecting Harvey Firestone’s original vision of a service-oriented business.

More than Just Oil Changes – Services

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Before visiting Firestone Complete Auto Care, I had the impression that their services were limited to just oil changes and tire installations. However, after spending some time there, I quickly realized that they offer much more. The scope of their services extends well beyond basic maintenance.

Firestone Complete Auto Care offers a wide array of services to meet nearly every automotive need. Their offerings include routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and alignments.  They also specialize in tire services, providing a broad selection of top brands along with installation, balancing, and repair. For vehicles needing a bit more attention, Firestone delivers comprehensive engine diagnostics and electrical services to troubleshoot and fix complex issues. Brakes, batteries, and tune-ups are also part of their extensive service catalog, designed to keep cars running smoothly and reliably.

In addition to these maintenance and repair services, Firestone Complete Auto Care also handles more involved mechanical repairs for the transmissions, suspension systems, and automotive HVAC systems. They offer state inspections where required and are known for their thorough vehicle checkups, which can help diagnose potential problems before they become serious. Seasonal services are also available to prepare cars for winter and summer driving conditions, ensuring safety and comfort no matter the season.

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Locations

Firestone Complete Auto Care boasts a widespread presence across the United States, with more than 1,700 service centers spanning all 50 states. This extensive network ensures that their quality automotive care is accessible, regardless of location. Each service center is equipped to provide a comprehensive range of automotive services, from routine maintenance to complex repairs.  Whether you’re in a big city or a quieter suburban area, finding a Firestone service center nearby is typically easy, making it convenient to obtain reliable vehicle maintenance and repairs without significant travel.

Why Firestone Complete Auto Care is my new go-to

Our recent visit to our local Firestone was truly an eye-opener. Before stepping into their service center, I had pigeonholed them as just another spot for oil changes and tire services. However, I quickly realized that they offer a much broader range of services. What really set them apart for me was not just the variety of services, but the exceptional service behind the name. The center was outfitted with the latest technology, providing the technicians with the tools they need to perform each job accurately and efficiently.

The dedication and passion of the staff were immediately apparent; everyone I met was not only friendly but also deeply knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their work. It was clear that they genuinely cared about providing the best service possible and had the experience to back up their expertise. This level of professionalism and care has made Firestone Complete Auto Care my new go-to place for all my vehicle needs. It’s reassuring to know there’s a place I can trust completely with my vehicles, where I know the service will be done right the first time.

The post Firestone Complete Auto Care – More Than What I Thought appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

Not that I wanted to, but recently I sold my 2012 Ford F150 and bought a 2024 Ford F150.  My 2012 was having so many problems. When I considered the amount I would have to invest back into it to make it road-worthy, I decided it wasn’t worth it.  I never had a bed cover on that truck because I always had a toolbox.  Which was nice but there were more times I needed a cover than not.  So on my new truck, I knew I was going to get a bed cover but which one was the question.  After looking around, I went with the RealTruck RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover.

RealTruck RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover – Overview

So why did I go with the RealTruck RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover?  For a couple of reasons.

First, I have purchased items in the past from RealTruck and the experience has always been great. They have an easy-to-navigate website.  And I like the fact that when I enter my vehicle info for product searches, it keeps my truck model in my profile. So I am not putting it in every time I go to a new page or even when I come back at a later date. It’s just intuitive and easy to use. I also like the communication.  When I place an order, I get order confirmation, and email updates with shipping and tracking information.

Second is the customer experience.  I have an aftermarket exhaust for my truck, the Corsa.  I had questions about the system.  When I called, I spoke to someone in the States who took the time to answer all my questions.

Third, every time I received a product from them, the packaging was great.  I know when things get shipped, these shipping companies beat the heck out of their packages.  The last thing I want to get is a broken part because of shipping. So that is yet another reason I am a huge fan of RealTruck.

Now I could go into some other reasons I went with RealTruck, but let’s just jump into the RealTruck RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover.

RealTruck RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover – Features

As I said, there are a lot of truck bed covers in the marketplace and it wasn’t easy picking one that would fit my needs.  I will go over the features of this cover but the reasons I went with this cover are:

1. Hard Cover – I wanted a hardcover that rolls up.  Soft covers are nice, but I like the hard cover for durability
2. Locking in any Position – I like the idea that I can lock this cover in any position so it’s not just open or closed.  If I am hauling something around, I can push the cover right to the object and lock it in place.
3. Smooth Operation – I wanted a cover that is easy to open and close.  The last thing I want is something I need to fight every time I use it.  This has ball-bearing wheels for a smooth and easy-to-use operation.

With that said, here are some other cool features that were just added bonuses for me.

• Aluminum Built and Matte Finish – Strong and looks great with any truck.  Can hold up to 500 lbs on top
• Spiral Canister Design – The canister features an anti-rub spiral design that prevents the cover from rubbing against itself while retracting or resting in the canister.
• Water Drainage System – Drainage tubes allow the collected runoff water in the canister to exit without getting into your bed.
• Security – Total truck bed security is ensured with the lock system on the cover combined with the tailgate lock.
• Low Profile Design – Doesn’t protrude above the truck bed.
• American Made – Huge plus. It’s nice to support local jobs.
• Limited Lifetime Warranty – Backs up and protects the user.

RealTruck RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover – My Experience

So this is my first experience with a truck cover and I wasn’t sure what to expect with the installation, the noise, using the cover, etc.

Installation

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I have to admit, I was a little worried about installing the cover but when it came down to it, it was incredibly simple.  Dan and I installed it in about 20 minutes.  You put the side rails on, lift it into the truck, align the rails, lock the rails to the bed and you’re pretty much done.

The Cover

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As you can see the cover looks great and it is pretty even with the top of the bed so it’s not sticking over as I have seen with other covers.

Lock

The cover comes with two keys.  I haven’t seen the mechanics of the lock but you can tell when you lock and unlock the cover, it feels like a quality lock, not cheap.  I also like the fact that it has a cover on top because I live in Chicago where the weather can play havoc on locks.  This way it’s protected and I can still use it even on those days of freezing rain.

Final Thoughts

As I said, I never had a cover before so this is my first experience.  I have to say I can’t believe I didn’t have a cover on my other truck.  The installation was simple and the quality is way more than what I expected.  While the quality is great, the two things that surprised me most were that when I am driving, the cover is quiet, and it’s not banging up and down and rattling all over.  Second, how smooth the operations are and how easy it is to use.

I drove from Chicago to Omaha and this cover was awesome.  I didn’t have to worry about rain, things flying out of my bed, or people stealing anything from my truck.  When I needed to get in the back and get something, it was easy to open and it would stay in place.

Best of all, when the truck was sitting overnight and it rained, nothing in the bed was wet, in fact, there was no water in the bed at all.

Overall if you are looking for a bed cover, the RealTruck RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover is what I would recommend.  I would buy it again and recommend it to anyone.  The cover is built tough, high quality, easy to use, and protects against the weather and unwanted visitors.  A perfect solution to add more storage and protection to your truck.

The post RealTruck RetraxPRO MX Tonneau Cover appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

I recently bought a Ford F150 and one thing I do to all my trucks is get a spray-in bed liner.  My first truck was a 2003 GMC Sierra and I went with Rhino Linings.  The liner wasn’t bad but I wasn’t a fan.  The shiny look faded away, there were stains early on that never came out and I did have some areas that were peeling.

My next truck was a 2012 Ford F150.  I thought since I wasn’t excited about Rhino Linings, I’d go with a factory-installed bed liner.  And again, I wasn’t impressed.  The liner became dull and stained very early on and peeled in certain spots.  Overall the factory liner was poor-quality material, poorly applied.  First, they just sprayed over all the bolts. And with all the flex in the truck, those spots would bubbly up, rip, and eventually peel.  Plus on the tailgate, they didn’t make sure the liner was applied properly for complete coverage. So when rocks and other debris got in between the tailgate and body, those spots would chip and rust. So again, not a fan of the factory liner.

So for this truck, I wanted something different.

Great Lakes Customs Bed Liner

My partner Dan always takes his trucks to Great Lakes Customs (Crystal Lake, Illinois) to get his truck beds lined. I have always liked the way they look and the way they hold up.  So I knew this was where I wanted to go.

However, I still wanted to find out more about them since it seems like there are a lot of spray-in bed liner companies to pick from.  I went in to talk with them and was sold right away. (Again, it wasn’t a hard sell since Dan always talks about them and the quality of work.)

So what I found out gave me even more reason to want to work with them.  First, the people up front were friendly and knowledgeable.  From them I learned Great Lakes Customs has a ton of experience and has been around for a long time.  Second, they have amazing reviews: well over 100 reviews with an average star rating of 4.8.  Third, they do more than just spray in bed liners. They do undercoating, rust-proofing, and window tinting. They have truck accessories and more. So when it comes to vehicles and after-market services, they have the knowledge and experience.  The list goes on but the main reason I wanted them to do my bedliner is their quality of work.  They don’t just try and get as many done per day as they can.  They do a great job for each vehicle.

Great Lakes Custom vs Factory

I know I touched on a factory bed liner but while I was at Great Lakes Customs, I was able to see firsthand how poorly a factory bed liner was installed on another truck.  As you can see, the factory liner was sprayed right over the paint without any surface prep, which is crazy.  No wonder mine was peeling.  As they were taking off the factory liner, it came up in strips and was easy to pull off.  Watching this just reaffirmed why I don’t want a factory liner. They are more money for a lesser quality product.

Great Lakes Customs Bed Liner – Process

Before

It might be hard to tell from the pictures but I had my truck for about a month and threw all sorts of stuff in the bed, so it was pretty scratched up.  Not a huge deal since I knew I was getting in a bed liner.

Removal of Accessories

Again it goes back to doing things the right way.  While some shops will just cover up accessories, Great Lakes Customs takes time to remove them and do it the right way.  This way the spray is behind the accessory and no chance of a weak spot where it can peel.

Covering

Next in the process is covering up everywhere to protect the truck from spray.  Again, they take their time to make straight lines with the masking so when they remove it there are nice clean lines.

Removing Paint

One of the biggest steps is surface prep; removing the paint and getting down to primer and/or the metal.  This allows the liner to stick to the truck and have a stronger, longer-lasting bond.  One of the steps others might not take, especially at the factory.

Spraying

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The spraying is pretty cool but since I wasn’t in a suit, I couldn’t go in and get better pictures.  Again, just watching how they spray, I can see they take pride.  It wasn’t just spraying to get it done, they took their time, measured, and made sure the thickness was spot on.  They even lay a little more in the areas that will take more abuse.

After

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So here is what it looks like after, amazing.  They say the third time is the lucky charm and for me it was.  This is by far the best bed liner I have had.  I like how it’s shiny, won’t fade or stain, and has a lifetime warranty which gives me peace of mind.  The whole truck liner has a nice texture and just looks professional.

What Makes Them Different

It might be hard to tell from the picture, but the bed liner goes down between the tailgate and the frame. The bolt was even taken out to help prevent any weak points. So in the end, I would go with this liner and Great Lakes Customs again.  The people were friendly, knowledgeable, and cheaper than the factory.  The biggest difference you get with them is the quality.

The post Great Lakes Customs Bed Liner appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

When it comes to exhaust systems, there are some pretty popular names out there, and a lot of different places to get these systems.  So when I bought my truck and knew I wanted an exhaust system, I had to do some research. I figured I might as well share my experience and hopefully make it easier for you in case you are in the same situation. So let’s jump into the Corsa Sport Dual Exhaust.

I have owned a Ford F150 since 2012. Recently I had been having a lot of problems with the truck. A lot of research helped determined it wasn’t worth dumping more money into it, so I decided to buy a new Ford F150 LTX.  Before I owned my 2012 Ford, I had a 2003 GMC that had a 4.8 V8 engine which was awesome.  I remember when I bought the truck I was at the dealer and heard a dual exhaust and instantly knew I needed it.  So I had the dealer install a Corsa dual exhaust, which sounded incredible and held up strong for all the years I owned the GMC.  I ended up having kids and had to sell the GMC and go with the Ford because it had bigger back seats. I went with the Ecoboost which was a 6-cylinder.  I never liked the sound of an exhaust on a 6-cylinder so I left the factory exhaust for the next 12 years.  So now let’s jump back into 2024 and the new truck.

Corsa Sport Dual Exhaust

As I said, I went back and bought a Ford F150 but this time I went with the 5L V8 which is the Coyote engine.  The first thing I knew I wanted for the truck was dual exhaust.  Since I had a great experience with Corsa, that was what I really wanted to install but I still looked around.  After a bunch of research, I ended up going with the Corsa because, for me, I thought it had the best sound.  I liked the Stainless Steel and I also had a great experience with Corsa in the past.

Now I am not saying the stock exhaust is bad because it actually has a great sound, I just wanted more.

My problem was that Corsa offers both a Sport and Extreme model.  When you go online to hear the difference, it’s hard to tell because it’s just noise coming through the speakers.  So I ended up calling Corsa.  Someone answered the phone right away and answered all my questions.  After they informed me that the Sport was what I had on my old truck, I decided to go with the Sport.  Again, this was just another reason to go with Corsa.  Anyone who has great customer service, well that is a business I want to spend with because if I ever have a problem, I know there is someone on the other end to help me out.

RealTruck

I looked around at different online places and came across RealTruck.  There were a couple of things that stood out to me and kept me on the page and looking to buy from them. First was the price.  For the pipes, the price is the same throughout the internet so my guess is Corsa makes sure everyone is selling for the same price.

But some of the things I liked were right at the top of the page, I saw their phone number.  I can not tell you how frustrating it is to deal with a business that only communicates through email or even chat.  When I saw the phone number, I had to say I was sold.  However I still had to verify, so I called.  When I called there were easy-to-follow prompts, I was quickly connected to a rep. I could tell right away it was in the USA and with the company.  The person was able to answer all my questions and even provide more detail to help with my decision-making.

The next thing that I liked about RealTruck was its website.  It was easy to follow and navigate.  Best of all, I entered my truck information on the website and it showed me relevant products.  I wasn’t forced to keep putting in my truck information over and over again like other websites.

So in the end I went with RealTruck because of the services and ease of the website.  Plus they offer a lot of different products.

Here is the link to Realtruck.com Corsa in case you want to check it out.  You will have to change the truck information and pick the correct options, but this will help you get started.

Install

So here is the stock exhaust system

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and here is the Corsa exhaust system.

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I decided to install it myself, well let me just say Dan installed it, I just watched.  So here is something to note about installation.  The included directions are bad.  They are hard to follow.  Now it’s not too complicated to install an exhaust but here are some things with the hangers that you might need clarification on, and the directions aren’t that great.

Taking off the old system was easy and Dan was able to do it by himself.  Installing the new system was also easy, even with the bad directions.  The whole process took about two hours but we stopped here and there so it wasn’t a straight two hours.

There really isn’t too much to get into the install that caught us off guard but I would look through the directions or watch a video on the install first.

Sounds

So here is the deal, you can not talk about sounds, it’s something you have to hear so I will keep this short because even listening to sound over your computer speakers doesn’t do it justice.  I was worried because some people said the Sport was too quiet.

If you are looking for a good deep sound that is not annoying or extremely loud, Sport is the way to go.  There is very little cabin noise but when you get on the gas, it has some pop and will turn heads.  But if you are the guy who wants it to scream, the Sport might not be for you.

At cold start up it has some noise until the RPM settles down, but it sounds great at start-up.  If you are driving around with the normal throttle, it has a small rumble that is not overpowering, and at cruising speeds, there is little or no drone noise.  When you get on the throttle, at least halfway down, that is when this exhaust comes alive and sounds awesome.  I hear a lot of trucks by us but nothing sounds this good.

So what I like about this exhaust besides the quality, is when I want to just cruise, the noise isn’t overwhelming.  But when I get on it, it comes alive and sounds like no other.

Final Thoughts

If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing.  The Corsa was easy to install, sounds great, and dealing with RealTruck was easy.  Again, I really didn’t shop around too much because while I like getting the best price, I am more about getting customer service.  In the end, the price was the same all around, so the deal breaker was easily the customer service.

If you have a truck and looking for parts, check out Reatruck.com

The post Corsa Sport Dual Exhaust – Real Truck appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

A few years ago we introduced you to the original Classic version of Stupid Car Tray. I liked it back then, and I like it even more now. It is still one of the best “problem solvers” for making your passenger seat (or back seat) a secure, useful space for your stuff while you’re driving. It has a flat surface for things like food, provides secure holders for mugs & water bottles, has hooks for a trash bag, and much more. Today we are looking at the Ultimate Bundle which is the new and improved Elite Tray with two cup holder accessories included.

Stupid Car Tray Overview

Think of those situations where you want food or drink secured in your passenger seat. However that ergonomic car seat slant that feels so nice to sit in makes an unwieldy, crumbly, possibly greasy, messy “table”.  The Stupid Car Tray solves that problem.  I have seen it in action, loaded with several hefty food items during intentionally aggressive driving conditions.  I can vouch that the Stupid Car Tray works.

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The Stupid Car Tray is designed to securely fit on the seat, providing a solid, level surface to place food, drinks, or whatever else you need within arm’s reach while you drive. It comes with an integrated, loop-and-hook fastening Cargo Strap that you can use across items like a pizza box (pictured below) or drink tray to keep them securely in place.

Stupid Car Tray Updates

Like the Classic Tray, the new Elite Tray has integrated hooks on the front of the tray to hang a trash bag. The new Elite Tray version is included in the Ultimate Bundle and has the following enhancements over the Classic Tray:

• The large flat area has a non-slip Grip Mat
• The rear of the tray is secured to the seat with the Stupid Seat Anchor*
• It is available in multiple colors

Also, when ordering the Ultimate Bundle you can choose two drink holder accessories: two mug holders, two cup holders, or one each of the cup and mug holders.

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As you can see, the drink holders can handle fairly large mugs and fast-food cups. And I love having two extra drink holders – I almost always need at least two, especially on long road trips.

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This new Elite Stupid Car Tray comes with the *Stupid Seat Anchor – “aka, “The Bratwurst” — you’ll add quick-release convenience and extra snug security for your Stupid Car Tray. Slide in between your seat, clip it in, and pull the strap tight. Boom. You’re in.” This is a great, improved feature because when turning and breaking, you don’t want the tray itself to move around.

Stupid Car Tray – Our Thoughts

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The tray’s construction and Cargo Strap ensure that your items will keep their location and their shape as you weave through traffic like a maniac. Not only is the Stupid Car Tray convenient it is also a much cleaner and safer way to travel. This tray would be great for delivery drivers, van-lifers, and even kids in the back seat. And we love that all Stupid Car Tray products are designed and manufactured in the USA.

We even tested the Stupid Car Tray with an intentionally large pizza that, at first glance, overwhelms the tray.  Even though the pizza goes beyond tray borders as you can see it is still level – wrap the Cargo Strap on this box and you’d be good to go.

Stupid Car Tray – Wrap Up

You can purchase any of the Stupid Car Tray products on Amazon. With the Stupid Car Tray secured in place, you can rest assured that whatever happens to you or the car while driving, the food will be ok.  And in the end, the food is what really matters.

The post Stupid Car Tray – What’s New appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

I don’t normally write articles, but for this product, I wanted to share my thoughts. Roughly seven years ago I was looking for a truck bed storage system for my 2011 F150. I did not want the typical toolbox setup as it was a personal vehicle and I wasn’t a fan of the “Work Truck” look. I did a ton of research and came across a brand new company called DECKED. They had this new revolutionary bed storage solution that was made from High-Density Polyurethane. Compared to other wood drawer units that looked homemade, the DECKED really stood out as thought-out and well-engineered product. So I got one and have been impressed with this system ever since. In-fact I am on my fifth pickup truck since then and my third DECKED system as I had to change systems because of different truck models.

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So let’s talk about my experience with three of these products within the past seven years. Has it failed? No. Has it leaked? No. Have I abused it? Yes! The HD Polyurethane construction can take whatever factory weight your truck can handle. The deck is steel reinforced and I have loaded everything from ATV’s to bags of rocks on it. It takes abuse and keeps on going. I also had zero fade with this product, meaning it still looked as black as the day I got it. Since the deck is steel reinforced you can add Core TRAX accessories. These are basically rails that have holes where you can attach rings and create tie-down points. This is the exact same thing you will see in an aircraft cargo bin. Fortunately for me with the exception of the 2011 F150, Ford has box link tie-downs which stay in place with the DECKED installed. I am able to use those to tie down all my cargo. The install is pretty straight forward and goes by fast with two people. The number one tip I can give you here is to watch the videos and NEVER use a power tool on it. Don’t ask me how I know.

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The system has six storage locations: four ammo cans and the two main drawers. Let’s talk about the ammo cans first. They are in all four corners and have a gallon or so of space. These ammo cans are not weatherproof however they do a great job of keeping the water out. I find them good for chains and ball hitches, the ammo cans do not lock. If you flip the lids over it reveals two molded cup holders. The two main drawers are in the center of the unit and hold 200 lbs. each. The drawers roll smoothly empty or loaded; they ride on roller blade-like wheels with quality bearings. The drawers pull out about a foot past the tailgate and have a preset stop. You cannot go past this stop, it leaves about a foot or so covered by the deck toward the rear of the drawer. So at the very back of the drawers I tend to put my heavy items that I don’t use a lot. You can still access them, you just have to reach through rather than just seeing the open drawer. DECKED has really amped up the accessory department. Now they have all kinds of dividers, toolboxes and even a backpack called the D-Bag that fits snug into the drawers. The toolboxes are actually pretty awesome. They have gaskets which makes them weather-sealed and have a ruler /conversions on the top. They also have dividers and a drawer organizer called the Drawganizer which is awesome!

I cannot say enough about the smooth operation of this system and the quality feel it has. The drawers are individually lockable with locks you can purchase separately. For my needs, the F250 has a lockable tailgate and that is enough to lock them. I usually just have some basic tools and straps in mine so high security is not needed. The two drawers are completely weather tight, meaning the car wash and Mother Nature are not going to get anything wet. If your truck ends up in a lake, I would say everything in your truck including everything in the bed will be soaked. On the very back of the unit is a hand ruler bar with some conversions for when you are working off your tailgate. But for some of you, the handiest thing is the bottle opener at the back. At the end of the day, you can crack a cold one open. Even better you can fill both the drawers with ICE, add your favorite beverage and you have 2 HUGE coolers! You will be remembered at parties for years. The drawers have an optional drain for the cooler option.

So the big question is the DECKED system right for you? There are downsides with any bed storage system or cover, but the DECKED just has one downside which isn’t that bad actually. It takes up the bottom of your bed, that’s it. You still have full use of your bed only the floor is a bit higher. So anything that would fit before still will, it will just be higher. You can still fit an ATV up there, load bags of rocks, tools, etc…. I wouldn’t recommend dumping bulk materials like dirt, sand, and rocks. I mean you can, but there are gaps where the material can get into. Since the DECKED covers the wheel wells you also have a wider flat deck to work with, keep that in mind.

One crazy side effect that I noticed on my 2020 F250 is that my ride was way better with the weight – unbelievably better. My truck bounced like mad on the highway and now the DECKED has tamed it. I give the DECKED an awesome thumbs up! It has made my truck organized, useful, and smoothed out the ride. For me, it is the perfect solution. As far as quality and durability the system is A+, it is made in the USA, and DECKED customer service is second to none.

The post Decked Drawer System appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

So you may be asking yourself, why am I calling it the Stupid Car Tray?  If it’s stupid, why review it?  So here is the deal.  I call it the Stupid Car Tray because that is the name the founders gave it, the Stupid Car Tray.  So how did I find this product?  Easy, I know one of the founders, Phil.  Phil is a great guy just trying to make it day to day like the rest of us.  He has been telling me about this for a while and I thought it would be something cool to put on our channel for everyone. So let’s check out the Stupid Car Tray.

Stupid Car Tray Review Overview

Yes, I know the founder but as I told him, I am going to be brutally honest about the product.  Whatever I like or don’t like, it’s fair game.

One of the reasons I gravitated towards this product is because I was working out of my truck for two years and I know what it’s like to have a seat next to you be more of a hindrance than a help.

So here is what the Stupid Car Tray is.  As you know, car seats have an incline for comfort, which is great when you’re sitting on the seat.  However, when you are not, the incline is more of a pain.  Everything falls down to the back of the seat, your cheese pizza shifts on the car ride home, you can’t have anything loose because it moves all over the place.  The Stupid Car tray takes this inline away and makes it a flat, usable space.  Simple, right?  It’s one of those inventions where you wonder, “Why didn’t I think of that?”

Stupid Car Tray Review Features

The Stupid Car tray is about 17.5″ long by 12″ wide and is made from hard plastic.  This means it will cover a large part of the car seat and will be durable for the long haul.

As you can see, one side has legs. The legs go towards the back of the seat and that is how this simple solution creates a flat surface on the seat.

The tray has a large flat surface which is about 14″ long by about 6″ so you have more than enough space if you need a flat surface for writing an estimate or something along that line.

There are three indentations that are between 3.5″ and 4″.  Good enough for keeping some organization on the go.

On the front side of the tray, there are two hooks that will allow you to use plastic bags as a garbage bag.  I need those all over my truck.  I wish I could blame my kids but I am pretty messy in the truck also.

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Another cool feature is the velcro straps.  This is great for holding items to the tray such as pizza, drink carriers and more.

Stupid Car Tray Review Performance

I worked out of my truck for a couple of years and I know how hard it is to stay organized and how much that seat next to you can be a pain.  I would get food and try and balance it on the center console, things would get knocked over, files would fall on the floor, pens would disappear under the seat and more.

The Stupid Car Tray solves those problems.  The tray is solid and well built.  I like the indents into the top of the tray so staying organized is easier.  The middle tray is great if you’re charging a phone and the cord can stay down while the phone is in the indent.

The tray fits perfectly on the seat and gives it a nice flat surface for a laptop, food or whatever you need to stay stable.

The Velcro straps are great for boxes, tray holders and more.  I like how much they expand and how easy they are to use or store away underneath if you don’t need them.

Stupid Car Tray Review Future

So here is the deal.  I like this tray and how it solves an important problem.  I love the organization and turning a problem into a solution.  But as you know, we can always ask for more.  So here are my thoughts.

I would love to see this turn into a modular system.  For those who work out of their vehicle, it would be nice to have extra storage, something below, a modular system.  Maybe something that resembles the Milwaukee PACKOUT system where it locks into place.  Maybe a drawer, a file system or a way to build it around my needs.

I would also like to see foldable legs.  Sure it packs away nicely behind my seat, but if I could fold the legs and make more room, well that would be a plus for me.  Heck even adding two more adjustable legs so the kids have a tray in the back seat for longer car rides.

Now I know that all takes a bunch of money and time to create but just an idea for the future because I love what they have and how it works. So adding onto the system will only make it more useful.

Stupid Car Tray Review Value

The Stupid Car Tray is priced at $29.99.  Sure I would like it better at $19.99 but for what it does and how you can turn unused space into useable space, I am okay with the $29.99 price tag.  The plastic isn’t flimsy and the legs are solid.  So it’s not one of those cheap products that break after a drop or in a month.  They did do a good job of designing a solid tray for long term use, so the price does match the quality and convience.

Stupid Car Tray Review Final Thoughts

The bottom line, I like this invention and think it’s practical, built well and perfect for your vehicle.  While I would like to see some additions to generation 2, for what this tray claims it does, they are spot on.  I love having the things I use the most, at my fingertips and easy access.  Being able to keep my pizza flat and not moving around, well let’s just say I am sold.  I think this is a great solution for anyone looking to solve the problem of the pain in the butt slanted seat.

The post Stupid Car Tray Review appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

Have you ever seen the Seinfeld where they talk about how toilet paper hasn’t changed much over the years?  Well, that is how I fell about tie-downs.  We only have a couple of options to secure loads.  We have Bungee, rope, ratcheting straps and quick rope systems.  Well, today we are going over something new to the market, the Simple Strap.  Simple Strap is a new way to secure loads so let’s jump into the Simple Strap Review.

Simple Strap Review Overview

Simple Strap is a cool invention that was developed by three friends out in Hawaii.  They wanted a simple solution to secure items to their car and that is when Simple Strap was born.  Now before I go on, these straps are designed for smaller loads, not if you’re hauling a car on a flatbed trailer across country.

Simple Strap is an all-purpose rubber tie-down.  The Simple Strap is self-gripping which means you don’t need any mechanical assistance when using this strap.  The strap is about 20′ long and can be cut to any lengths you need.  When stretched, you can stretch it to about 100′, which means you can do some serious work with a single strap.  A point to note, the more you wrap, the stronger it will be and the more it will hold. Since it’s rubber, it’s no-mar and this means you can secure gutters, white trim and more and not have to worry about it marking up the wood or metal gutters.

So why is it so simple?  There are no moving parts, knots to tie or hooks to get caught.  All you have to do is make sure the first and second wrap are in contact and they will hold together while you finish wrapping the rest of the load.  Once you wrap the load, just tuck the end through the last wrap.  Yes, it’s that easy.

If you are a homeowner or even a professional tradesman, these straps can benefit you and make your life easier. You can use these straps for so much including bundling lumber, securing ladders to ladder racks, use them as clamps, strap stuff to ATV’s and hundreds of more uses.

Simple Strap Review Features

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Simple Strap comes in two thicknesses and three colors.  They offer a regular strap that is 2mm and 800 psi and then they offer a heavy-duty that is 3mm and 1000 psi.

The strap comes in either red, black or yellow.

As you can see the strap lays flat which makes it easy when wrapping a load or working with the strap.

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The rubber strap does stretch and is easy to work with.

One thing I love about the strap is how wide it is.  The strap is about 1-9/16″ thick which means there is a lot of surface area per wrap.

Simple Strap Review Performance

I am currently remodeling so my day consists of running to The Home Depot picking up lumber, EMT pipe, PVC piping and so much more.  For me, I love having these straps as they are extremely easy to use and very quick.  There is nothing more annoying than putting everything in the back of the truck bed and then taking a turn and listening to the pipes and everything else move around.

I pretty much leave the Simple Strap attached to the tie-down in the truck and when I load something, I can quickly wrap it around the load and go.  Same thing when I get home, no more messing around with the ratcheting tie-down, releasing them and then wrapping them back up to put away in the truck.

I have to admit, I was skeptical at first when I heard about the straps.  But after using them, I can say they really do work.  I thought when they got wet or dirty, it would hinder their effectiveness, but they work in the water and even with some dirt on the straps.

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The boys next door have an ATV so we attached a cooler and had them ride around to see how well it would hold the cooler.  Again, no issues with the straps.  They hold up and work as advertised.

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The one thing I really like about the straps is no matter what shape or what material, the straps work.  From something simple as this fan to woodworking to simple organization, the straps have so many uses and work great.

Simple Strap Review Value

You can pick up Simple Strap on Amazon for $29.94 for two straps or $44.91 for three straps.  If you are looking for a single strap, you can check out the Simple Strap website where you can get a regular strap for about $16 and a heavy-duty for about $18.

Personally I don’t think these are priced all that bad.  In fact, I think it’s a pretty good deal considering I can cut them to any size I want, they can be reused and best of all, they are easy to use and store away when not in use.

Simple Strap Review Final Thoughts

Overall, I think this is a great product.  I like the quality and ease of use.  It’s simple and has a good price point.  Anyone looking for a quick and easy solution to strapping loads to their car or truck, this is a great option.

The post Simple Strap Review appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

Weather Guard is known in the industry for having one of the best truck boxes around.  I have owned mine for over 5 years and still think it’s one of the best boxes.  Now, this isn’t a review.  We have reviewed this box in the past.  However, we do get a ton of emails asking how the box is holding up after all the years.  The box in the picture is a new box as we are giving it to a local contractor.  For me, I love the box and everything works just as good today as it did when I first took it out of the box.  So here is a quick breakdown of the box, features and my experience with the Weather Guard Saddle Box.

Weather Guard Saddle Box Information

• Name – Weather Guard Extra Wide Saddle Box
• Model – 117-0-02
• Price – $815
• Where to Buy – The Home Depot
• Weather Guard’s Website – Saddle Box 117-0-02
• Weather Guard Reviews – Weather Guard Box Reviews

Features

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When it comes to truck boxes, Weather Guard has a reputation for a reason.  Here are just some of the features of this Saddle box.

• Retracking locks help with security
• 90-degree lid opening for easy access of what’s in the box
• Automotive-style latches
• Limited Lifetime warranty
• Store a 48″ level inside
• Weather seal for protection
• Powder coat finish

Past experience with Weather Guard

Again, this isn’t a review as we have already reviewed this box.  This is more of an update after I have owned this for over 5 years.  Yes, this isn’t the original box as this is a new box which we are giving to a local contractor who is starting up.  If you follow us on our social pages, you have seen and will continue to see my box and what it looks like after 5 years.  Trust me it looks pretty close to this except for some scratches.

After 5 years, I still love the box.  The most important aspects are the lid still closes very tight and it can still be closed from either side of the truck.  The box doesn’t have any rust or holes.  The weather strip is still working and intact.  The only time I get anything in the box is when I get condensation from the changes in weather, nothing from the outside.  Yes, the locks still work great and the key slides in nicely and is easy to lock.  Lastly, the pistons are still strong and hold the lid open 90 degrees.

Final Thoughts

For me, the Weather Guard has been one of those products that just works. While I wish I had a bigger bed, the large saddle box is the way to go as I can fit so much in there.  Everything on the box is still good, even after 5 years. If you do own the 5-foot bed, I would go with the smaller Weather Guard box as this will eat up all of your space in the bed.  Overall, it’s a great box.

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We recently reviewed Huksy 1-1/4″ Tie-Downs and we gave them good praise for their quality compared to price.  So we decided to try their heavy duty tie downs which are the 2″ Tie-Downs.  So let’s take a look at the Husky (FH0843) Tie Downs and see what they offer.

Husky Tie Downs Overview

Let’s face it, when it comes down to Tie-Downs, it’s extremely important to get a quality Tie-Down that won’t let you down. After all, this is a tool that can cost lives if it fails.  Too many times I have read about a load that shifted or fell out and it either killed another person not related to it or caused the driver of the load to lose control and crash.  Either way, it’s not good.

However, here is the dilemma.  You need a quality Tie-Down but since we all know they get lost, left behind or borrowed and never returned, we are usually not willing to pay a premium for this type of product.  So this is where I feel Husky 2″ comes into play.

Husky Tie Downs Features

The Husky uses a 2″ strap and is designed for heavy loads.  As you will see, these types of straps are beefier and more heavy duty than the 1-1/4″ straps we covered earlier.

The straps have a working load of 3,333 lbs and a break strength of 10,000 lbs meaning these can withstand a lot of stress.

The straps are made from a thick, soft polyester which is weaved for strength. The polyester will resist weather and is UV protected.

The ratcheting end is typical of what you would see with other systems and works identical to Tie-Down ratcheting systems.

The handle has a thick and soft over-molded grip.  You can use this with or without gloves and still be able to work the system.

The release lever also features a rubber over-mold but it’s not as thick as the handle side.

All the working parts are made of metal and do not feature any plastic.

Husky offers two types of hooks, a flat hook or a J Hook which is shown above.

Husky Tie Downs Performance

So here is where I need to apologize.  We had some really nice pictures of these straps in action when we picked up our Windsor one trim.  We traveled about 70 miles on a tollway and the straps were awesome.  However, I took the card out of the camera, left it on the dash and it fell down my vent.  So yes, I will hear that rattling around for a while.

Overall the straps are nice.  I have seen 2″ straps that are a little easier and smoother but they have all had a heftier price tag.  If you are hauling heavy equipment every day, I would invest in the more expensive versions.  However, for the person who is hauling a couple of times a week or someone who is losing their straps all the time, these are a great alternative. They are easy to work with and provide a great working load strength.

Husky Tie Downs Value

You can pick these up at The Home Depot for about $12.  To me, this is a steal.  They are easy to work with, they provide enough strength for moving larger and heavier items but if you lose them, I am not going to be crying.  Well, I am cheap so I might be crying a little.  All and all, this is a good deal for what you get.

Husky Tie Downs Final Thoughts

In the end, these Husky Tie-Downs are a good value.  For the average person needing to secure a load, these are perfect.  If you are hauling stuff for a living and constantly using straps, these might not be the best fit.  For everyone else, these are perfect because they have a high working load and won’t break the bank.

The post Husky Tie Downs appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

Let’s face it, when it comes to tie-downs, there are a ton of options for the consumer.  However if you have bought these handy straps in the past, you know they are not all created equal. I have spent a ton of money on some brands only have them break or be a pain to work with. On the other side, I have bought cheap ones without much luck as well. While the mechanism sometimes last, they are a pain to work with because they are smaller. So speaking of tie downs, let’s check out the Husky Ratchet Tie Down Review and see how they stack up.

Husky Ratchet Tie Down Review Overview

Tie downs are one of the most overlooked and underappreciated accessories, well at least in my eyes. But if you drive down the highway you will see them being used all over the place. From the guy in his 1973 VW with a homemade trailer and underrated tires to a massive semi with a huge payload. You will see these straps all over the place and let’s be honest, if you don’t have a good tie down, it can mean the matter of life and death.

I have used some of the older Husky tie downs in the past and in all honesty, I wasn’t a huge fan of them. While they were strong, they were not the best for the price. Well, Husky redesigned these tie downs from the ones I tried a long time ago and since the price is right, I had to give them another shot.

Husky RatchetTie Down Review Features

The Husky tie-downs come in a four pack and are 1.25″ wide by 16′ long. The model number is 1001 755 669

The handle and release lever both feature a rubber over mold grip which makes using the ratcheting tie downs easy on the hands.

The rubber on the handle is thick and not one of the cheap thin pieces of plastic for looks only. The rubber is thick and is not only comfortable but will take abuse over the years.

The release lever also has some rubber for comfort and grip, but the hole is large enough where you can easily fit two fingers in and release the locks.

The whole ratcheting system is made of metal which provides strength and longevity. The metal is what you would expect on your typical tie downs. The metal isn’t very thick but by no means is it too thin.

The “S” hook also has a rubber sheathing to not only protect the hook but also protects what ever you attach it to such as your trailer of tie downs on your truck.

The webbing is made from a polyester which means it’s UV and weather resistant. The webbing provides a working load of 766-lbs and a break strength of 2,300-lbs.

Husky Ratchet Tie Down Review Performance

Ratcheting two sides together is easy to do with this tie down. Once you get pressure on both sides, it wasn’t hard to put a couple more ratchets in and get it nice and tight. Never once did it give way and not catch the next cycle.

Releasing the system once it’s tight is also easy to do. If you have ever bought cheap ratchet tie downs, you know what it’s like and how hard it can be to release some of these systems. The Husky is extremely easy to release and work with.

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Since I have been hauling a ton of stuff to my house, I have used these a lot of the last month. Here is one example where we ran down south about 1.5 hours away to pick up a bunch of wood trim. These ratchets were perfect. We could easily secure the load and didn’t have any hesitation to drive on the tollways.

Husky Ratchet Tie Down Review Value

You can pick these up at The Home Depot for about $16. For me, this is a great value since they are easy to work with, I love the handles and they unlock very easily. So for $4 a piece, it’s a great value.

Husky Ratchet Tie Down Review Final Thoughts

These tie downs have everything I want in a good ratcheting system. First they are strong, second, they are easy to ratchet and third, they are easy to unlock. Plus let’s face it, they don’t cost a lot. So really what is not to like about these tie downs? They have a variety of other types in this line, so make sure you’re getting this style or the style you want as they all look alike but have different specs. If you are looking for a quality tie down, I would take a look at the Husky tie downs.

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Here in Texas, trucks are king. They are everywhere, but you can always tell the people that use them for work or people that use them for pleasure. I drive a truck, it hauls my kids and groceries, but it also gets its fair share of abuse from hauling lumber, mulch or dirt by the yard, and tools for projects I am working on. Toolboxes are no longer just for pro’s, that’s for sure. Weather Guard has an amazing reputation in the truck toolbox world and is one of the brands you can see still rolling twenty plus years later in the back of a tradesman’s truck. So, with the new Defender Series, does Weather Guard keep performing where it counts? Check it out in the Weather Guard Truck Chest Review.

Weather Guard Truck Chest Review Overview

Weather Guard has a cool history behind it. Originating in the 1960’s by a man named Howard Knaack, Weather Guard started with a modest shop and high-quality steel made right here in America. A lot has changed over the years, and Weather Guard is now owned by Werner Co. One thing that hasn’t changed though, is their commitment to making the best tool boxes tailor designed to provide storage solutions to tradesman for their trucks. The Defender Series is slightly different than some of their other lines and isn’t just for the pros. This line is meant to be somewhat more budget friendly while providing the same protection we have come to expect from Weather Guard.

Weather Guard Truck Chest Review Features

The Weather Guard Truck Chest measures 50 x 19.6 x 19.3 for a total of 10.9 cubic feet of storage and weighs in at 44 pounds.

At first glance, you can see the diamond plate heavy-duty aluminum construction. The 4-piece welded construction keeps the chest strong and rugged feeling despite the aluminum feeling thinner than what you’d expect. 

The lid is made with C-channel reinforced construction that is welded to prevent against prying open. As well the reinforced front panel provides additional protection against break-ins.

The push button locks open with one push allowing for easy opening with full hands. The push button locks are also strong and durable, with drill resistant key holes making them more resistant to tampering.

The chest includes D-shaped ribbed weather stripping for full ultimate weather resistance.

The lid features dual gas struts for smooth operation and use. Additionally, the welded aluminum channels ensure the lid closes evenly and securely.

The 2-hook loop strikers and dual stage rotary latches give the chest optimum security.

The included small parts tray allows for small hardware to be stored neatly.

The chest is mounted using support legs that are included to mount the chest to the bed and made of heavy-duty powder-coated 1/4 inch steel to resist crimping during use.

This chest is designed for full size and compact pickup trucks and carries a 7-year warranty.

Weather Guard Truck Chest Review Performance

The Weather Guard Truck Chest is strong and durable. I was a bit surprised that the aluminum seemed thinner than I expected, but the welding and supports allow it to stay strong. The locks perform well and do seem to hold true to the tamper-resistant claim. Although, I am hoping to never truly test that theory.

The Chest opens easily and smoothly thanks to the struts and by reinforcing the lid, there is no visible bend. The Chest is heavy without being overly so, making moving it in and out of the truck easy. The Weather Guard name remains solid thanks to the weather stripping. Despite the constant rain as of late here in Texas, not a drop has squeezed past the seal. This is an awesome tuck tool chest and allows plenty of room still to haul other cargo in the truck bed.

Weather Guard Truck Chest Review Value

This Truck Chest retails at $462 dollars on at Home Depot. This is steep for a toolbox but its a manner of what you need it for. Eric recently took a look at the black, powder coated toolbox as well but it costs a bit more. Trucks don’t afford you a lot of storage space. For people who need to haul tools but also people, a storage box of some sort is needed. Even if you aren’t a tradesman, the average person can get a lot of use out of a toolbox like this too. Protecting things like camping or hunting equipment, tools for projects, or a host of other things.

Weather Guard makes some of the best tool boxes out there. Weather Guard’s aim is to appeal to more consumers where ultra high-end toolboxes are overkill. This line is a great middle ground. In terms of value, their quality and features make for a great tool chest.

Weather Guard Truck Chest Review Final Thoughts 

I’ve been debating on a toolbox for quite some time. I debated a long time about a truck purchase. I needed the ability to haul wood and tools, but I didn’t want to lose protected storage space. My Ford F-150 is an amazing truck, adding a chest has solved a lot of the storage problems I once had. If you don’t need the intense strength of some of their higher-end models or are looking for a storage option that won’t break the bank, this tool chest is a great place to start your search. It has something for everyone, professionals, hobbyists, and everyone in between. Weather Guard is a name we all trust to protect our investments, and this tool chest is no exception to their reputation.

The post Weather Guard Truck Chest Review appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

If you own a pick-up truck, then you know storage is at a premium. You do have a couple of options such as getting get a truck cap, cover or truck box. However, each one has its pros and cons. For me, I am a huge fan of truck boxes. I like how easy they come in and out when needed, plus I still have room to put bigger items in the bed without having a cap or cover get in the way. A while back we reviewed a Weather Guard saddle box, which I still own and love. Recently we had the opportunity to test out a Weather Guard chest so let’s talk Weather Guard Chest Review.

Weather Guard Chest Review Overview

Most professional tradesmen need a truck or van for their job. While a van has safe storage and plenty of it, a truck is very limited. You spend a lot of money on your power tools and need a way to transport them back and forth to the job. You need something that allows you to easily access them, but you also need to keep them safe from the environment and most importantly keep them safe from thieves.

Weather Guard is known around the industry to provide a solution for those problems I just mentioned. If you look around you will surely see a Weather Guard on a bunch of trucks in your area. To me, that says a lot.

Weather Guard Chest Review Features

The Weather Guard (Model 300401-53-01) chest is 10.9 cubic feet. The box is made from aluminum and has a 4 piece welding design.

This is part of the Weather Guard Defender series. The Defender series is a less expensive box than the top end Weather Guard. This box is targeted towards a buyer who doesn’t need all the bells and whistles of the top of the line box and doesn’t want to pay a lot. The lid is a little more flimsy, the aluminum feels a little thinner and the locks are a little less beefy.

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As with the top end models, this has a nice diamond plate powder coated black finish.

Just like their top tier products, this has a push button lock system so it’s hard to break and provides more safety from thieves.

The box features a piston on both sides of the lid which makes it easy to open and close.

The weather stripping is a D-Shaped weather stripping to help keep rain, snow and other outside environments issues out of the box.

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The box features a single tray that can be removed or slid from one side to another.

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The locking mechanism is different on the defender series. While the top tier products use a car style latch system, this has a different latch. Still strong but not as strong as a car style latch system.

I saw some reviewers online say their box was damaged when they received it. While our box was dropped off, it seemed like it was packaged and protected well and should even hold up to the abuse of shipping.

Weather Guard Chest Review Performance

I have had the box in the back of my truck for about a month. Now it’s springtime so we get a ton of rain but not much snow. So stay tuned for next winter and I will give an update after some more abuse.

As far as keeping water out, it does a great job. When I open it up, there is never any water in the box, nor dust or dirt from the road or other dusty areas I have visited over the last month.

When it comes down to it, it’s a box with a lid and a lock. It keeps my stuff inside and the weather out, so what can I really say. The lid opens easily and stays open. There is only a lock on one side which is a bummer, but I know that ahead of time and isn’t surprising.

I also know that the Defender series is a great series but not the top of the line series, so I am not going to get all the bells and whistles of their top their Weather Guard boxes, which again is OK since I know what I am getting into.

A box like this should have a longer-term review because of the outside elements. So I will keep you up to date on how this holds up. Considering it’s a Weather Guard, I am confident it will stand the test of time.

Weather Guard Chest Review Value

The Weather Guard Chest retails for $560 at The Home Depot. To each his own, as some might think it’s pricey and some will see this as a bargain. I understand you can get boxes for less, but for me, it’s more than just a price tag.

I have had the Weather Guard saddle box for years and it has held up without any issues.  I have seen old Weather Guard on trucks that have been through hell and back. So if I didn’t know Weather Guard, I would probably think it’s a hefty price tag. Considering my experience with them, what I have heard from others and what I have seen, Weather Guard is a quality name. With that said, I don’t mind paying $560 when I know it will last a long time.

Weather Guard Chest Review Final Thoughts

I am not saying the Defender series is for everyone. Some will want more bells and whistles so you will have to get their premium line of boxes. For those who want to save a couple of bucks and want a quality box that will store their stuff, prevent theft and keep your items safe from the environment, this is a great option.

The post Weather Guard Chest Review appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

We all know how important it is to secure your load to your vehicle or trailer.  However, the way we do it can vary.  Some use rope, some use cheap straps and others go all out and buy the best of the best.  So what is the best option for you?  Well, that depends on what you’re transporting and what your needs are.  So let’s take a look at the Husky Tie-Down Review and see how these stack up.

Husky Tie-Down Review Overview

For me, I don’t haul heavy machines and other items, so I don’t need fancy tie-downs or tie-downs that will hold a 747 in place.  For me, I need a quick, reliable and inexpensive tie-down that will do the trick.  In the past, I have always bought cheap ones.  While the first couple of times the cheap tie-downs have been okay, I can always tell that I am using a cheap strap.  The way they ratchet and how quickly they turn to junk.

I have always thought about buying the more expensive ones, but I just don’t do enough to justify the cost.  Well, I think I found a perfect solution with the Husky Tie-Downs.

The Husky tie-downs are designed for the homeowner who wants to secure their load and doesn’t need to spend a lot on tie downs and hold a front loader in place.

Husky Tie-Down Review Features

The Husky Tie-Down set comes with 4 ratcheting tie-downs.  Each tie-down is 12′ long by 1″ wide.

The tie downs are a ratcheting tie-down which allows the user to securely fasten their load tightly to their vehicle or trailer.

The handles have a nice rubber grip making it more comfortable when using and especially when ratcheting them down.

The straps are rated for a 500 lb working load and offer a 1,500 lb of break strength.

The straps are made from a Polyester webbing, weather-resistant, UV-protected design which resists wear from the elements.

The metal clip (thumb release) that loosens the strap could be a little beefier, but it’s still easy to use and access.

The Husky tie-down kit comes with a storage bag.  So when you are not using them, you can store them in the bag which can help keep them tangle free.

Husky Tie-Down Review Performance

In the past, we have tested and reviewed some similar tie downs that were in the $10 to $20 price range.  All those tie downs seem cheap.  While these don’t have the same smoothness as the expensive tie-downs, they are much better and smoother with their ratcheting action than others in the same price range.

Husky Tie-Down Review Value

The Home Depot sells these Tie-Downs for about $10 which is a steal. While these don’t compare to the high-end tie downs we have used in the past, these are head and shoulders over the $10 to $20 tie-downs we have seen in the marketplace.

Husky Tie-Down Review Final Thoughts

Bottomline, these are a great price.  Now if you own a truck and you are hauling heavy equipment, obviously these are not for you.  But if you are the person who occasionally hauls things in your truck or trailer that isn’t really heavy, then these are worth every penny.  The straps are easy to use and won’t break the bank.

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Having a truck for work is crucial.  On any given day, you have no idea what you will be hauling around.  Having the bed in the back is great and makes your life so much easier.  However, there is one small problem or price we have to pay for the ability to have an open bed.  We lose the ability to securely store and transport certain items.  Now if you have a crew cab, sure you have some room to lock up your tools, but for a single cab, how do you lock your stuff up and protect it?  As a truck owner, you really only have four options.  You can either chance it and leave your tools in the back, which means people can easily steal them or they get ruined with the environment.  You can install a cab, but some people don’t like the looks of it, plus you are limiting yourself on what objects you can transport because of the reduced height.  Another option is using a cover, which is a great option for a lot of people.  I love the fourth option, having a truck box.  For me, I love the look, I love the ease of organization, the ease of accessing things and I still have most of my bed open to transport anything.  Now before I go on, I used to think a truck box was a truck box.  However after we first had the chance to review a WeatherGuard truck box, I can tell you first hand that a box isn’t a box.  I know people who went with off brand or cheaper brands and all I hear from them is complaining.

Here is my thought.  We call reciprocating saws Sawzalls, we call tissue, Kleenex and the list goes on.  The reason we do this is because those brands were either the first to market or the products are just so good, we go by the brand name.  Well when it comes to truck boxes, I think we should just call them Weather Guard. Now I am not sure if they were first to market, but in my opinion, they are the best truck box around.  Back in 2013, we reviewed a Weather Guard box.  The box we reviewed was a Saddle Box, but it was their bigger version.  We reviewed the 117-0-02 which has all the same dimensions as the 127-0-02, but the width is bigger which is 27.5″.  With this box, the width is 20.25″.  Yes, the cubic feet is also different.  The big box has 15.3 cu ft, while the smaller box has 11.3 cu ft.  I love how they have two different sizes available.  Most truck beds are 5′ long, so the 127-0-02 is perfect because of the smaller width.  However, I have a 6′ bed, so I like the extra width.

Okay, so let’s jump into the Weather Guard Truck Box Review.  As I was sitting here getting ready to write this article, I thought to myself.  Since both boxes are identical except for the width, why not take pictures of the box that has been sitting outside for the last 3 years.  After all, every box looks great when it’s new, but what about after using it for a couple of years and being outside in the elements.  So the pictures I have attached to this article are my old box from 2013, so keep that in mind when viewing them.  No, I didn’t clean the box, it just looks new even after all this time.  Before I tell you what I like and don’t like about my box, I just want to cover some key points for the people who are here and might not be familiar with this Saddle box.

These Weather Guard Saddle boxes are made to fit any full size pick up truck.  The box is made from aluminum and has a diamond plate pattern.  There is a clear coat finish on the box to protect it from the outside elements.  The locking system on these boxes is unique.  While most manufacturers choose to use a low-quality locking mechanism, Weather Guard uses a full retracting lock system that helps protect against break-ins.  Another cool feature, but one I don’t utilize is that these boxes have a 12V access on the back in case you want to run power.  On the inside, there are a couple storage options.  First, you can store a 48″ level on the back.  On one side, there is a removable storage box, which is great for drill bits and other small accessory items.  There is more to this box but just wanted to let you know a little bit about this box before I talk about my experience with it.

Again, I have had my box for three years and would like to first start on the outside of the box.  As you can see, this box still looks brand new.  This box has been outside all 3 years.  I live in the Chicago area, so we get extreme heat and extreme cold, so yes it experiences both sides of the spectrum.  As far as the clear coat, whatever they use, works.  I don’t see any peeling or fading.  So let’s talk strength.  These boxes get abused on the job site, but I don’t think any job site can give this box a run for its money like my 6 and 8-year-old can.  My 8-year-old is about 70 lbs and my 6-year-old is about 60 lbs.  I can not tell you how many times they get on top of this box and jump up and down.  Yes, I understand they shouldn’t do it for safety reasons, but I have heard it enough over the years from my wife.  When they jump up and down, the lid has never once buckled.  I am not sure how much weight the lid can take, but I know it can at least take 130 lbs of bouncing up and down without any problems.  Best of all, the lid still opens and I have never had any issues.

Okay, so the lid is strong and the clear coat keeps it looking like new year after year, but what about use?  Here is where this box shines.  First are the locks.  I love how when the box is unlocked, the red button is out.  When the box is locked, the button is recessed which makes it harder to break in.  Not only does it offer protection, but I love the visual.  I don’t have to walk up to the box to see if it’s locked or unlocked.  I can just look at the lock and know right away.  You can lock and unlock either side of the box, you don’t have to do both at once.  Here is the best part of this box.  There are two locking mechanisms located inside the box.  When I close the lid from either side of the box, both always lock into place.  I never have to walk around the truck and push the lid down to make sure the other lock is triggered.  For me, this is huge having the peace of mind that if I close the lid on one side, the whole system is secure.  I hear people all the time who don’t have Weather Guards tell me that they have to perform the walk around to double check the box is locked.

Opening the box, the quality doesn’t stop.  To this day, the pistons that assist in opening the lid still work.  It doesn’t matter how cold it is outside or how much ice is sitting on the lid, the lid still opens so smoothly.  Plus when the wind blows hard and catches the lid, it might move a little but has never shut closed from the wind.  I also love how the pistons are protected on the inside of the box.  There is no way for you to bend or break these pistons, what a great design.  There is weather stripping that covers the inside of the lid.  Not once have I ever gotten rain, snow or anything in this box.  My weather stripping looks like brand new and never have had any issues at all.

Listen I could go on and on about this box.  The only thing I can tell you is that if you are looking for a premium box to protect your investment in your tools or something else you want to store in a box, get the Weather Guard.  I am a huge fan of this box.  No, they aren’t paying us to talk this box up.  This is just one of the products I believe in 100%. For me, it’s either a Weather Guard box or nothing.  There are no substitutes.  I really don’t want to bore you with a long-winded article. So do me a favor, next time you see someone with a Weather Guard box, just ask them about their story or their personal opinion.  Trust me, These boxes are awesome and worth every penny.

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