I Had to Fix the Broken Shock Mounts on My Truck Toolbox

Look what happened to my toolbox and the other side is starting to do the same thing.
Let’s fix it.
Using painters’ tape,  I marked the center line of where the old shocks were mounted.
Next, I cut out the damaged aluminum with a grinder and jig saw so the repair would fit.
This has actually been a great toolbox that has had years of abuse and I would buy another one in a minute.
I put the shock mounts in a vice to clean up where they were welded.
Then I measured and cut two 6” pieces of steel plate.
I drilled three holes in the shock mounts and transferred the hole locations to the steel plates.
Using bolts and nylon lock nuts, I attached the two together and then drilled 5 holes on both sides of the plate for pop rivets.
With my tape mark and a speed square I line it up and pop rivet it in place.
I put grease on the pivot point.
Then I did the exact same thing on the other side.
Hopefully the steel plate won’t get metal fatigue like the aluminum.
Look at that- works just like new.
Let me know in the comments- do you think this repair will hold up, or fall apart? @hausplans

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