Decisions decisions.

[SWD]

What type of tools would you take along and store on your boat? Have one I already use for my RV. Usual things, hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, etc, etc.

 

[briangcc]

Re: Decisions decisions.

That's kind of a loaded question. The list will vary depending on how close you are to shore/help.

I personally carry:

Socket set
Screw driver set
Pliers
Zip Ties
Wire - can be stripped by pliers in a pinch

I should go buy a prop wrench at some point along with upgrading my tool set to be a little more complete - socket set is a cheapo Northern Tool set so my tools are limited. But on the other hand, how much dead weight do I really want to add to my boat right now? I'm usually within ear shot of shore and could swim there if need be. I also usually boat with family that have their own boats so a tow in is a phone call away.

If I were further from shore/help, my tool list would increase immensely. To give you an idea, here's what I carry in my tow vehicle:

*Complete tool set - pliers, sockets, pry bars, hex keys, etc.
*Trolly jack - for trailer and truck
*Star wheel
*Second 1/2" socket with extension, high impact 22mm socket for lug nuts, extra lug nuts (stockers as I run wheel locks on my rims)
*Extra long handle 3/8" socket drive
*Jumper cables - need to be upgraded to a better set
*4x4 post so that I'm not jacking on bare metal
*Wheel chocks
*2000lb cable puller
*Collapsable shovel - never know when you might need to dispose of a body
*Spare winch for boat trailer - my former boss broke mine on an outing so I now carry a spare at all times
*blanket
*tarp
*1" recovery rope
*associated fluids - wiper, 1qt oil, brake, etc.
*(2) different tow bars with 2" balls - different drops so I can tow trailers level

I need to purchase a jump pack at some point and keep it in there as I've had need of it a few times.

 

[CHARGER2]

Re: Decisions decisions.

Every tool I have ever used on my boat (with the exception of things like timing guns) goes into a toolbox that is always in the boat. This way I always have the correct size/configuration of wrenches, drivers, sockets, etc. I am exclusivly in very small inland lakes, yet this has helped me get back to the dock on several occasions.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Decisions decisions.

Although it gets asked a lot, it's not a question that can be answered, meaningfully, with the meaningless word "boat." It also requires a description of typical use.

A guy driving a vehicle across the Australian outback needs every tool and part imaginable, and spares. A guy driving across town needs a AAA card, that's all. You might carry more tools and spares than you "need" in a roomy SUV than you would on a motorcycle. Boats are the same way.

One universal strategy, though, is to carry things that can be used several ways: insulated wire can bridge electrical gaps or tie things together. Cable ties serve as hose clamps. Because on any boat, you try to reduce weight and space of things you carry.

Some people keep everything on board but use them while on land; others carry only what they might need at sea. For example, no need to carry a prop wrench at sea, unless you carry a spare prop, too. But it's not a bad diea if you use your boat tool box for work at the ramp, for convenience; then you carry the prop wrench. Then again, I've worked on props for 45 years and don;t even know what a prop wrench is.

 

[JoLin]

Re: Decisions decisions.

I've been slowly cutting back on the stuff I carry aboard as I gain experience. I try to concentrate on those things I can reasonably expect to fix when I'm bobbing around in the water. I'm not about to tackle a blown head gasket in open water. Towing insurance is the right tool for that.

I have stuff to fix broken hoses, I have stuff to fix broken electrical connections. I have a DVM and IR thermometer. I carry one set of engine belts and the tools I need to change them. I carry an adjustable wrench, a selection of screw drivers and pliers, and my handy-dandy Leatherman. Some oil, 2 spare fuel filters and wrench to change 'em. That's about it.

I do keep stuff in the car for more complicated repairs I can make at the dock.

 

[SWD]

Re: Decisions decisions.

I've been slowly cutting back on the stuff I carry aboard as I gain experience. I try to concentrate on those things I can reasonably expect to fix when I'm bobbing around in the water. I'm not about to tackle a blown head gasket in open water. Towing insurance is the right tool for that.

I have stuff to fix broken hoses, I have stuff to fix broken electrical connections. I have a DVM and IR thermometer. I carry one set of engine belts and the tools I need to change them. I carry an adjustable wrench, a selection of screw drivers and pliers, and my handy-dandy Leatherman. Some oil, 2 spare fuel filters and wrench to change 'em. That's about it.

I do keep stuff in the car for more complicated repairs I can make at the dock.

That sounds kinda what I was thinking. Our boating is mainly lakes within a mile or so offshore.

 

[sailingseven]

Re: Decisions decisions.

If your boat is older remember to pack an extra set of points and feeler gauge to get you back to the dock. should the old ones fail.

 

[SWD]

Re: Decisions decisions.

If your boat is older remember to pack an extra set of points and feeler gauge to get you back to the dock. should the old ones fail.

Electronic ignition on mine. Thanks for the suggestion.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Decisions decisions.

Do a search for tools and you will see this has been discussed many times

 

[64osby]

Re: Decisions decisions.

High Trim

Then again, I've worked on props for 45 years and don;t even know what a prop wrench is.

Made me laugh.

It's hard to remove a cotter pin with a wrench, maybe vice grips.