Big-Time Boxes: Curtis Detweiler, Snap-on Tools

Aug. 9, 2019
A shop owner shares his “ungodly big” toolbox setup.

Owner: Curtis Detweiler

Shop: Redz Auto Body

Location: East McKeesport, Pennsylvania

Curtis Detweiler is the owner of Redz Auto Body, and he bought his 60’ long Snap-on Mr. Big Toolbox about six months ago to provide more space for his tools.

“I’m not sure what made me want to upgrade,” Detweiler jokes. “I’ve got an issue.”

His upgraded toolbox attracts a lot of attention due to its massive size. The toolbox is set up in an L-shape in Detweiler’s mechanic’s bay and features lockers on each side, four hutches, and two top boxes. He also recently added an additional top piece. Each of the stainless steel top boxes has a built-in power supply.

Detweiler keeps his toolbox meticulously organized in what he calls a “borderline OCD” schematic. He keeps sockets and ratchets in one drawer, pliers in another, diagnostic tools kept together, and cordless tools kept together. The tools he uses most often are stored in the top drawer of the center cabinet, where he has quick and easy access to them. “That’s one advantage to having such a big toolbox,” he says. “Everything pretty much has its own place.”

For Detweiler, the deciding factor for choosing this toolbox over other options was the number of storage areas. “I like the efficiency of having multiple areas in the box for selected tools, such as PDR tools, diagnostic tools, metric and standard auto body tools, and mechanical tools.”

“My favorite part of the box is the computer area,” he adds. “I have three monitors set up, and that’s where I do all of my ordering, diagnostic materials, and that kind of stuff. I like the simple ease of being able to access everything I need right there.”

“The toolbox tends to get a lot of attention,” Detweiler says. “It’s just ungodly big. When you walk into the shop it’s the first thing that sticks out to you. I get a lot of reactions to my toolbox.”

About the Author

Stefanie Von Rueden | Assistant Editor - Vehicle Repair Group

Stefanie Von Rueden is assistant editor for the Vehicle Repair Group.

Von Rueden’s background includes professional writing and publishing. Previously, she worked in the Continuing Education department at UW-Whitewater. She has covered the vehicle maintenance and automotive aftermarket since 2016.

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