Tool Roll That Fits the Harley VL Factory Toolbox
Finding a compact tool roll that actually fits a Harley VL toolbox is harder than it should be. Most modern motorcycle tool rolls are simply too large, especially for early VL models with the factory metal toolbox measuring just under 8 inches.
After digging through a range of oversized options, I came across an upcycled US Military M13 spare parts roll that fits the VL toolbox surprisingly well. It’s compact, durable, and—after real-world use on a cross-country ride—proved to be one of the most practical tool storage solutions I’ve found for these bikes.
For more period shop setups and VL-specific solutions, visit the VL Tech archive.
Finding a Compact Tool Roll
After about an hour of searching the internet for a “miniature” motorcycle tool roll, I stumbled across an upcycled US Military M13 spare parts roll on Etsy.
Being a guy that rides a motorcycle that constantly drips oil on the ground (by design, mind you), you can probably guess that upcycling is not at the top of my priority list—but maybe this will buy me some carbon credits.
I purchased the tool roll from New Leaf Fabrications, which specializes in upcycling military surplus. For this particular piece, the internal pouches have been restitched to allow for longer tools to be inserted, and the canvas has been rewaxed with their “home brew” canvas wax.
Tools Carried in the VL Tool Roll
Looking at the picture above, you can see that it holds quite a few tools. I pulled them out so you can see them better.
Here’s a list of the contents:
feeler gauge
misc. screwdriver bits
complete set of stubby wrenches
complete set of midget wrenches
spare ignition keys
master link
contact file
New Leaf Fabrications also added a piece of paracord, which turned out to make a great pull cord for removing it from the tool box.
Fitment Inside the VL Toolbox
When rolled up, the shape is not perfectly round, but closer to the pear shape of the tool box. This makes for a snug fit, but not so tight that you have trouble removing it.
Real-World Use and Durability
Over the course of my cross-country ride, that tool roll was pulled in and out of my tool box dozens of times. It contained our only complete set of wrenches, so whenever either motorcycle needed an adjustment, out came the tool roll.
Besides a little blue Rustoleum and a grease stain or two, the tool roll looks just as good as the day I got it. The snug fit not only kept the tools from rattling for 3,600 miles, but also kept the canvas from wearing or fraying.
Remember, this is a military surplus tool roll, so the quality is exactly what you would expect from military field-grade equipment.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve got a VL out in your garage, you need this tool roll. Supplies are limited, so check out New Leaf Fabrications while they still have some available.
