1968 with tool box option

[atmobeach]

Hi: Can someone tell me if the optional tool box's metal lock mechanism on the 68 Ranger should be chromed/painted or just left as base metal?
Thanks.

[FORDification]

I suppose you could chrome it if you wanted, but I've never seen one chromed. All I've seen are just the natural metal finish.

[kaptnkaos]

Hey Atmo...

dang... that's a dificult one... I have seen them all 3 ways.
I believe that stock they were just a polished base metal, (like the tail gate latch) but they were prone to rust.
I have also seen many of them painted to match the truck.
I don't belive that this was a stock option, but done by an owner at some point.
I have also seen several trucks with chrome latches... (my favorite)
I think those were owner done or possibly after market, but I have never seen them on sale by any retailers.

If you find a definitive answer please make sure to post it.
If you happen to find a place that carries the chrome ones let me know...

take care,
KaptnKAOS

[alvinator]

hey keith, i am currently having the toolbox door handle chromed and should get it tomorrow or wednesday. So, if you want a pic, i can take one and post it up here for you too look at.

[Tim P.]

I had mine chromed it came as a galvanized base finish from factory The chrome is very sharp looking the only thing I would like to find is the rubber cup gasket that protects the back lock area behind the pull latch mine is somewhat ok had to soak it in vasaline waiting for the latch to come back which help revive the rubber alittle but still has some cracks in it.