Tool box

A side storage compartment provides storage space inside the cab, while its opening door is integrated into the outer side wall of the cab. The compartment keeps documents, tools, personal equipment and safety equipment securely in place. On MAN and Mercedes trucks, the compartment is generally a vehicle-specific cab component: dimensions, mounting points, hinge side, trim cut-outs and wiring harness positions differ depending on the cab version. A side storage compartment must therefore always be identified using the vehicle's chassis number. Visual comparison or selection based solely on the model name is never sufficient.

Side storage compartments are found in a wide range of cab configurations for MAN TGL, TGM, TGS, TGX and TG3, as well as Mercedes Atego, Actros, Arocs, Antos and Econic. Different compartment volumes and layouts are used especially in sleeper cabs, such as the MAN TGX XLX and XXL or Mercedes Actros StreamSpace, BigSpace and GigaSpace. The mounting method and integration into the outer side wall vary considerably by truck cab.

The components are usually made from injection-moulded thermoplastics, such as ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or PP (polypropylene), sometimes with metal reinforcement brackets. Key distinguishing parameters include the left or right side, low or high compartment version, lid type, hinge direction, position of locking clips and the connection to the outer side wall and cab trim. The fit must be free of stress: a compartment mounted under tension against a cab panel may crack around the screw bosses or mounting lugs due to cab movement.

The most common defects are torn-out screw mounting points, broken clips, cracked hinge eyes, deformed lids and worn locking mechanisms. Overloading with heavy tools, thermal ageing caused by sunlight and continuous cab and chassis vibrations cause hairline cracks, especially near corners and mounting points. A compartment that rattles while driving does not always indicate a defective panel: first check the latch, stop rubbers, guide pins and any missing damping pads.

Open and close the compartment several times and assess whether the lid sits evenly within the contour. Then use a torch to inspect the mounting points behind it for broken clip nuts, loose metal brackets or damaged interior supports. If in doubt, measure the centre-to-centre distance between the mounting holes and compare the position of cut-outs for lighting, 12V connections, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) ducts or cable passages. Do not pull forcefully on a stuck panel: concealed fasteners may be located behind trim covers, floor covering or bed structures.

Replace a side storage compartment when load-bearing mounting lugs have torn off completely, when the lid no longer locks reliably or when cracks extend into the visible area and run along several mounting points. Small cracks in plastic can sometimes be repaired by plastic welding, provided that the material type and welding rod match. At heavily loaded hinge points, replacement is generally more durable than bonding, as adhesive joints may not withstand cyclic vibration loads sufficiently.

Fit the new compartment only after checking all clip nuts, screw bosses and retainers. Use suitable original or equivalent fasteners; an excessively large screw diameter causes local stress concentrations and can immediately damage new plastic. Tighten fasteners evenly, without deforming the plastic boss. Refit any felt strips or anti-rattle pads to prevent contact noises. Correct vehicle-specific selection and fitment help minimise downtime and ensure that the cab remains tidy, safe and professionally usable.