Wheel Well Truck Boxes

Wheel well truck boxes create storage space out of the area above and behind the wheel well in the truck bed. They provide a secure, weathertight space for tools and supplies while maximizing the cargo space in the truck bed. Read Less

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using a wheel well truck box?

A wheel well truck box, also known as a wheel well tool box or fender well box, offers several benefits: 1. **Space Optimization**: It utilizes the otherwise wasted space above the wheel wells, allowing for efficient use of the truck bed without compromising the main cargo area. 2. **Increased Storage**: Provides additional storage for tools, equipment, and other items, helping to keep the truck bed organized and clutter-free. 3. **Easy Access**: Positioned at the sides of the truck bed, these boxes offer convenient access to stored items without the need to climb into the truck bed. 4. **Security**: Many wheel well boxes come with lockable lids, offering a secure place to store valuable tools and equipment, protecting them from theft. 5. **Weather Protection**: Typically constructed from durable materials like aluminum or steel, these boxes protect contents from weather elements, keeping them dry and safe. 6. **Durability**: Built to withstand harsh conditions, they are resistant to rust, corrosion, and impact, ensuring long-lasting use. 7. **Versatility**: Available in various sizes and designs, they can be customized to fit different truck models and specific storage needs. 8. **Aesthetic Appeal**: Offers a sleek, integrated look that complements the truck’s design, enhancing its overall appearance. 9. **Load Distribution**: By storing items in the wheel well box, the weight is distributed more evenly across the truck, potentially improving handling and fuel efficiency. 10. **Cost-Effective**: Provides a budget-friendly storage solution compared to larger, more complex storage systems. 11. **Installation**: Generally easy to install, often requiring minimal tools and effort, making it accessible for most truck owners. These benefits make wheel well truck boxes a practical choice for maximizing storage and maintaining organization in a truck bed.

How do I install a wheel well truck box in my truck bed?

1. **Gather Tools and Materials**: You will need the wheel well truck box, a drill, drill bits, measuring tape, a marker, wrenches, bolts, nuts, and washers. 2. **Position the Box**: Place the wheel well truck box over the wheel well in your truck bed to determine the best position. Ensure it fits snugly and does not obstruct any other components of the truck bed. 3. **Mark Drill Holes**: Use a marker to mark the locations where you will drill holes for mounting. These should align with the pre-drilled holes in the truck box. 4. **Drill Holes**: Remove the box and drill holes at the marked locations. Use a drill bit that matches the size of the bolts you will use for mounting. 5. **Install the Box**: Place the box back over the wheel well, aligning it with the drilled holes. 6. **Secure the Box**: Insert bolts through the holes in the box and the truck bed. From underneath the truck bed, attach washers and nuts to the bolts. Use a wrench to tighten them securely. 7. **Check Alignment and Fit**: Ensure the box is aligned correctly and fits securely over the wheel well. Adjust if necessary. 8. **Test the Box**: Open and close the box to ensure it operates smoothly and is securely mounted. 9. **Final Adjustments**: Make any final adjustments to ensure the box is stable and does not move during transit. 10. **Clean Up**: Remove any debris from drilling and ensure all tools are accounted for. Your wheel well truck box should now be securely installed and ready for use.

Are wheel well truck boxes weatherproof and secure?

Wheel well truck boxes, also known as wheel well toolboxes or side-mount toolboxes, are designed to fit over the wheel wells of a truck bed, maximizing storage space without compromising the bed's utility. **Weatherproofing:** Most wheel well truck boxes are constructed from durable materials like aluminum, steel, or heavy-duty plastic, which provide a degree of weather resistance. They often feature weather seals or gaskets around the lid to prevent water, dust, and debris from entering. However, the level of weatherproofing can vary by brand and model. High-quality boxes typically offer better protection against the elements, but no toolbox is entirely weatherproof. Regular maintenance, such as checking seals and ensuring proper closure, is essential to maintain their weather resistance. **Security:** Wheel well truck boxes usually come with locking mechanisms to secure the contents. These locks can range from basic key locks to more advanced locking systems. While they provide a level of security against casual theft, they may not withstand determined attempts with tools. The security level largely depends on the construction material and the quality of the lock. For enhanced security, some users may opt to install additional locks or use supplementary security measures like truck bed covers. In summary, wheel well truck boxes offer a practical solution for storage, with reasonable weatherproofing and security features. However, their effectiveness in these areas depends on the quality of the box and proper maintenance. Users should consider their specific needs and the environmental conditions they will face when selecting a wheel well truck box.

What materials are wheel well truck boxes typically made from?

Wheel well truck boxes are typically made from the following materials: 1. **Aluminum**: Known for its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties, aluminum is a popular choice for wheel well truck boxes. It offers a good balance between strength and weight, making it easy to handle and install while providing durability against the elements. 2. **Steel**: Steel is another common material used for these boxes, particularly for those requiring extra strength and security. Steel boxes are heavier than aluminum but offer superior durability and resistance to impact. They are often coated with a rust-resistant finish to enhance longevity. 3. **Stainless Steel**: This material combines the strength of steel with enhanced corrosion resistance. Stainless steel wheel well boxes are ideal for environments where exposure to moisture and chemicals is frequent. They are more expensive but offer long-lasting durability and a polished appearance. 4. **Plastic/Polyethylene**: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other durable plastics are used for lightweight and cost-effective options. These materials are resistant to rust and corrosion and are often used in environments where exposure to harsh weather is a concern. They are less durable than metal options but provide sufficient protection for lighter-duty applications. 5. **Composite Materials**: Some wheel well boxes are made from composite materials, which combine fibers and resins to create a strong, lightweight structure. These materials offer good resistance to weather and impact, providing a balance between the benefits of metal and plastic. Each material offers distinct advantages depending on the specific needs, such as weight capacity, environmental exposure, and budget considerations.

Can wheel well truck boxes fit all truck models and sizes?

No, wheel well truck boxes do not fit all truck models and sizes. These boxes are designed to fit over the wheel wells in a truck bed, and their compatibility depends on several factors: 1. **Truck Bed Size**: Trucks come in various bed sizes, such as short, standard, and long beds. Wheel well boxes are often designed for specific bed lengths, so a box that fits a short bed may not fit a long bed. 2. **Truck Model and Make**: Different manufacturers have varying designs for their truck beds, including the shape and size of the wheel wells. A box designed for a Ford F-150 may not fit a Chevrolet Silverado or a Toyota Tacoma due to differences in wheel well dimensions and bed design. 3. **Year of Manufacture**: Even within the same model, changes in design over different years can affect compatibility. A wheel well box that fits a 2015 model may not fit a 2020 model of the same truck due to design updates. 4. **Box Design**: Wheel well boxes come in various designs, such as those with drawers, open tops, or lockable lids. The design can affect how well the box fits around the wheel well and how much space it occupies in the bed. 5. **Aftermarket Modifications**: Trucks with aftermarket modifications, such as bed liners or custom wheel wells, may require specially designed boxes to ensure a proper fit. To ensure compatibility, it is essential to check the specifications of the wheel well box and compare them with the truck's dimensions and design. Many manufacturers provide fitment guides or compatibility charts to help buyers select the right box for their specific truck model and year.