Backpack Truck Boxes

Backpack truck boxes sit behind the cab of chassis cab trucks to provide a secure, weathertight storage space for tools and supplies. These boxes mount onto the frame between the cab and the truck's flat bed or cargo container and are typically used on utility vehicles or service trucks. Read Less

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best backpack truck boxes for utility vehicles?

1. **Weather Guard 127 Saddle Box**: Known for its durability and security, this box is made from heavy-duty aluminum and features a tamper-resistant locking system. Its weather-sealed lid protects contents from the elements. 2. **Dee Zee Red Label Crossover Tool Box**: Made from non-rusting Brite-Tread aluminum, this box offers a combination of strength and lightweight design. It includes a closed-cell foam gasket to keep out moisture and dust. 3. **UWS Crossover Truck Tool Box**: This box is constructed from extra-thick aluminum and features a patented RigidCore lid for enhanced strength. It also includes stainless steel paddle lock lift handles for security. 4. **Better Built Crown Series Crossover Tool Box**: Known for its stylish design and functionality, this box features a low-profile lid for improved visibility and a locking paddle handle for security. 5. **Lund 79460T 60-Inch Aluminum Top Mount Truck Tool Box**: This box is designed for easy access and is made from durable aluminum. It features a weatherproof gasket and a secure locking mechanism. 6. **Delta Champion Truck Box**: Made from heavy-duty steel, this box offers excellent security with its reinforced lid and self-aligning latch system. It also includes a weather-resistant seal. 7. **TMS Aluminum Tool Box**: This lightweight yet sturdy box is made from aluminum and features a lockable lid. It is ideal for storing tools and other equipment securely. 8. **Buyers Products Black Steel Underbody Truck Box**: Known for its rugged construction, this box is made from 14-gauge steel and features a black powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance. It includes a locking stainless steel latch for security.

How do you install a backpack truck box on a chassis cab truck?

1. **Select the Right Box**: Choose a backpack truck box that fits your chassis cab truck's dimensions and meets your storage needs. 2. **Prepare the Truck**: Park the truck on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Ensure the truck bed is clean and free of debris. 3. **Gather Tools and Materials**: You will need a drill, measuring tape, wrench set, bolts, nuts, washers, and possibly a friend to help with lifting. 4. **Position the Box**: With assistance, lift the backpack truck box onto the chassis cab. Align it properly, ensuring it is centered and does not obstruct any vital components like lights or exhaust. 5. **Mark Drilling Points**: Use a measuring tape to ensure the box is evenly positioned. Mark the drilling points on the truck bed through the pre-drilled holes in the box. 6. **Drill Holes**: Carefully drill holes at the marked points on the truck bed. Ensure the holes align with the box's mounting holes. 7. **Install the Box**: Place the box back onto the truck, aligning the holes. Insert bolts through the box and truck bed, securing them with washers and nuts underneath. 8. **Tighten Bolts**: Use a wrench to tighten all bolts securely. Ensure the box is firmly attached and does not move. 9. **Check Alignment and Functionality**: Verify that the box is level and aligned. Open and close the box to ensure it functions properly without obstruction. 10. **Final Inspection**: Double-check all bolts and connections. Ensure the box is secure and does not interfere with the truck's operation. 11. **Test Drive**: Take a short drive to ensure the box remains stable and does not produce any unusual noises. Adjust if necessary.

What materials are backpack truck boxes made from?

Backpack truck boxes are typically made from a variety of materials, each chosen for its specific properties to ensure durability, security, and weather resistance. The most common materials include: 1. **Aluminum**: Lightweight yet strong, aluminum is a popular choice for truck boxes. It is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor use. Aluminum boxes often feature a diamond plate pattern for added strength and aesthetic appeal. 2. **Steel**: Known for its strength and durability, steel is another common material. Steel truck boxes are often coated with a powder finish to prevent rust and corrosion. They are heavier than aluminum but offer superior security and impact resistance. 3. **Stainless Steel**: Offering the strength of steel with enhanced corrosion resistance, stainless steel is used for high-end truck boxes. It is more expensive but provides excellent durability and a polished appearance. 4. **Plastic/Polyethylene**: These materials are used for lightweight and cost-effective truck boxes. They are resistant to dents and corrosion and are often used for smaller or portable boxes. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is particularly popular for its strength and weather resistance. 5. **Composite Materials**: Some truck boxes are made from composite materials, which combine fibers and resins to create a strong, lightweight, and durable product. These materials offer excellent resistance to weather and impact. 6. **Fiberglass**: Used for its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties, fiberglass truck boxes are less common but offer a smooth finish and can be painted to match the vehicle. Each material offers a balance of weight, durability, cost, and resistance to environmental factors, allowing users to choose based on their specific needs and preferences.

How do you ensure a backpack truck box is weatherproof?

To ensure a backpack truck box is weatherproof, follow these steps: 1. **Material Selection**: Choose materials that are inherently weather-resistant, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), aluminum, or stainless steel. These materials resist rust, corrosion, and UV damage. 2. **Sealing**: Use high-quality rubber gaskets or weather stripping around the edges of the box lid. This creates a tight seal when the lid is closed, preventing water ingress. 3. **Lid Design**: Opt for a lid with an overlapping lip or a raised edge. This design helps divert water away from the seal, reducing the chance of leaks. 4. **Hinges and Latches**: Select rust-resistant hinges and latches. Ensure they are tightly secured and check for any gaps that could allow water entry. Consider using compression latches that pull the lid tightly against the seal. 5. **Drainage**: Incorporate drainage holes or channels in the design to allow any water that does enter to escape easily. Ensure these are positioned to prevent water pooling. 6. **Coatings and Finishes**: Apply weatherproof coatings or finishes to enhance resistance to the elements. Powder coating or anodizing can provide additional protection against moisture and UV rays. 7. **Regular Maintenance**: Inspect the box regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace worn gaskets and reapply sealants as needed to maintain the integrity of the weatherproofing. 8. **Installation**: Ensure the box is properly installed on the truck, with no gaps between the box and the truck bed. Use mounting hardware that is resistant to rust and corrosion. 9. **Testing**: Conduct water tests by spraying the box with a hose to check for leaks. Address any issues immediately to maintain weatherproofing. By following these steps, you can ensure that your backpack truck box remains weatherproof and protects its contents from the elements.

What are the dimensions of a standard backpack truck box?

The dimensions of a standard backpack truck box can vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific model. However, a typical standard backpack truck box, often used for storing tools and equipment in pickup trucks, generally measures around 60 inches in length, 20 inches in width, and 18 inches in height. These dimensions are designed to fit snugly behind the cab of a pickup truck, utilizing the space efficiently while providing ample storage capacity. It's important to note that variations exist, and some models may be slightly larger or smaller to accommodate different truck bed sizes and user needs. Always check the specific dimensions of the model you are considering to ensure it fits your vehicle and meets your storage requirements.