Roll Around Tool Bench

For those of us who have garages that double as workshops, space is precious. I came across a similar design in a woodworking magazine years ago and wanted to recreate it with a few tweaks.

The table is triangular to save some space, and to be level and rock solid under any circumstance(just in case your shop floor is wavy).

Step 1 Collect the parts

This table can be made out of sturdy wooden materials as well but since I have easy access to scrap steel I opted for that instead. I don't have step by step photos, so Paintbrush will have to do.

3ea Heavy Duty locking swivel casters
3ea 4"x4"x32" square tube, or 4" dia. round tube
6ea 2"x2"x30" angle
Assorted metal plate (I used 1/8" and 1/4")

Comments

[westfw]

That's pretty neat, but it looks like it would be dangerously topheavy without those compressors on the bottom...

[CementTruck]

I worried about that when the table was finished. Before any tools are on the table it feels a little tippy. Once the tools are on an odd thing happens; the weight of each tool acts as a counterbalance and suddenly the tippiness goes away. The weight of the compressors helps too.

[Beagles]

Rather than use three wheels, my preference is to use a pivoting axle on one end. That way it is still very stable and is automatically self levelling. Picture, although not the best, illustrates what I mean. On this one, that frame is "underslung" beneath the axle. Note the pivot point in the center. On my table saw. the framework is above the pivoting axle.

[killerjackalope]

Cool we had a big rolling toolbench made from some simple rollers, it kinda slid out because it was in grooves on the floor, worked great, until one day my little brother hid behind it and I came in and rolled it back not knowing, he got a bit skinnier to say the least... it weighed in at about a half tonne equpiment and all...

[pfred1]

I'll see your rolling bench and raise you about 16 feet.
http://static2.instructables.com/pub/FKY/KYFC/FKYKYFCOB2ET2JY3BJ.medium.jpg

[CementTruck]

I fold!

[pfred1]

Heh. Yeah I had to make my one bench roll so I could still use one bay of the garage to pull vehicles in and out. The frame of it is all steel, with a 6 inch I beam running down the middle of it, and 5 inch leg angle steel risers. The castors are rated at 600 pounds a piece. Rolling the bench in compacts my work area, and rolling it out gives me all the space I need to work in.

[CementTruck]

I've got other ideas for my actual workbench. I'll make sure to post after I get it built. My ultimate goal is to make both bays useable for parking 2 cars, and still have the ability to roll my whole shop out when the woodwork begins.

[pfred1]

I've got another idea myself. I am going to build a 24'x24' detached garage to use as a dedicated workshop. Then nothing will need to roll around!