Big-Time Boxes: Tommy Grimes, Snap-on

Oct. 28, 2015
A box that really stands out

Owner: Tommy Grimes

T & L Automotive, Inc

Clemmons, N.C.

Tommy Grimes, owner of T&L Automotive, Inc., in Clemmons, N.C. purchased a custom-made Snap-on tool box in March. “I'm a Snap-on fanatic and when I saw it I said that is my box! I wanted the biggest box, one so tall that I can't even reach the top. I just love it.”

The lime green color and the overall size of the box really stand out to Grimes and remain his favorite features. The box, 18’ long by 8’ tall is made of two side lockers, three overhead storage boxes, two middle boxes, and more. All cabinets feature pull-out drawers.

Grimes is extremely proud of the boxes size saying, “It’s the biggest box around and I own it. It’s longer than my ‘64 Cadillac.”

His box also showcases some of his Wallies – awards he has won in the NHRA Top Fuel Nitro Harley races. “I think I have 16 Wallies and two world championships.”

In his shop, Grimes builds custom cars and trucks, often building vehicles from the frame up. His shop also repairs classic cars and trucks, hot rods, rat rods and “normal, everyday cars, trucks and work vehicles.”

With a shop that covers almost every type of vehicle, Grimes needs his box to hold all of his tools. This 31-year veteran technician doesn’t have a favorite tool, though. “I change favorite tools daily. I have so many (tools), I don’t really have a favorite. They’re all my favorite.” 

About the Author

Mattie Gorman | Associate Publisher | Vehicle Repair Group

Mattie Gorman is the Associate Publisher for the Vehicle Repair Group.

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