Have a tool box just for the boat?

[Mark42]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

I liked a lot of the solutions members have, and I decided to go with a cheap took kit. Will keep it in one of those oversize zip lock bags. Ordered this 130 piece kit from Harbor Freight for $35.00

I think if everything get a wipe down with that sticky spray chain lube, and keep it in a bag, it should not rust.

 

[Summer Fun]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

Mark, I have the same one stored on my tug just in case !! . I need to repair something .

 

[GatorMike]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

I used to carry a tool box that was always in the way, then I realized most any tool you could ever need on a well maintained boat could be carried in the glove box. I mean I see some of you guys listing things like a set of spare spark plugs. Think about it if you check your plugs before going out why would you ever need a spare set unless you were going out for a week? There are maybe 4 different size bolt heads on my outboard if I carry wrenches at all I cary just what I might need. What are you going to fix on the water that would require taking a wrench to your outboad? Most anything would require taking out only one or two bolts which could be done with a pair of good vice grips in an emergency, I doubt you are going to be able to fix it without parts anyway.

I maintain my boat and only carry tools required to do things like drain carb bowls, pull fuel lines or clean electrical connections.

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

I used to carry a tool box that was always in the way, then I realized most any tool you could ever need on a well maintained boat could be carried in the glove box. I mean I see some of you guys listing things like a set of spare spark plugs. Think about it if you check your plugs before going out why would you ever need a spare set unless you were going out for a week? There are maybe 4 different size bolt heads on my outboard if I carry wrenches at all I cary just what I might need. What are you going to fix on the water that would require taking a wrench to your outboad? Most anything would require taking out only one or two bolts which could be done with a pair of good vice grips in an emergency, I doubt you are going to be able to fix it without parts anyway.

I maintain my boat and only carry tools required to do things like drain carb bowls, pull fuel lines or clean electrical connections.

I'm the same way, if something breaks on my boat chances are it isn't going to be fixed on the water. I do however have a small plastic tool kit that with plyers screwdrivers and and some odds and ends stuff like tie wraps tape wire a piece of hose ect. If anything, someday maybe I'll be able to help someone else thats broke down.

 

[GatorMike]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

I'm the same way, if something breaks on my boat chances are it isn't going to be fixed on the water. I do however have a small plastic tool kit that with plyers screwdrivers and and some odds and ends stuff like tie wraps tape wire a piece of hose ect. If anything, someday maybe I'll be able to help someone else thats broke down.

That is exactly what I am talking about. I used to carry things like a compression gauge, a flywheel puller, a full set of wrenches. After a while I realized anything you can fix on the water can be fixed with a couple of screw drivers a multi tool and some electrical tape, not much more. Anything more complicated than that is going to require parts you probably don't have.

 

[tswiczko]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

Duct tape, hammer, WD-40(these may actually be the most important)

Gasket paper, wrench set, socket set, reversibe screwdriver, jumper cables, diaphram for fuel pump, bulbs, wire, electrical connectors, crimpers, utility knife, wire ties, hose clamps, vise grips, channellocks, needle nose pliers, underwater epoxy, super glue, rtv, oils, and there is a pint of tequila in the box that has been there since I put it together but I can't remember why I put it there, but I'm sure I'll find a use for it.

I also have a good first aid kit on board

 

[dsiekman]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

I keep my basics - ratcheting wrenches, screw drivers, vice grips, and a few nut drivers - along with basic spare parts in one of those orange watertight boxes you can get at the marine store or walmart. It really works! I used to keep a socket set on board in plastic case it came in...rusted pretty bad after the first season. The dry box has been on board for four years and no rust. I also keep a full electrical kit and a bunch of stainless steel screws on board just in case.

 

[dsiekman]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

Actually, the most important tools I keep on board are a handheld vhf and my unlimited towing insurance card...

 

[a70eliminator]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

A guy got robbed here at a local fishing hotspot, the pirates approched a man fishing alone at anchor, proceeded with some friendly chit chat just before pulling a gun and robbing this poor old guy, he said they threw his cell phone overboard and took his keys, this old guy said he always kept a spare key in his toolbox, good thing or he would have been at the mercy of Lake Erie.
Anyhow a spare key may be a good idea for everyone too.

 

[mikeneal]

Re: Have a tool box just for the boat?

I have a small canvas type bag from Home Depot and buy cheap screw drivers, wrenches etc and toss them when they get hammered. I use the bag for some maintenance to ensure I have what I need. Other then tools I have a test light, section of stainless hardware tapes and some electrical test jumpers (Radio Shack).