tools

[Jcris]

I don't currently carry any tools aboard my boat. Now it's just an 18' fish and ski but I realize emergency situations occur and I'd like to at least be somewhat prepared. I live near a lake where I do 90% of my boating. Here is a list of some things I feel would be good to have along. Please feel free to add to this what your experience has been and what you could not do without.
Flashlight/signal light, first aid kit, fully charged cell phone, emergency contact phone numbers, and a suitable paddle in case main and TM decide to go south. What about tools? I realize not a lot can be done on the water but what minimal set would be appropriate?

 

[JoLin]

How's the boat powered? You'll want fuel filters/water separators and the means to change them. If I/O, some spare belts and the tools to change them. Tools and terminals to fix a bad electrical connection. Duck tape. Towing insurance- Boat Tow US or Seatow if they have a presence where you boat.

 

[Silvertip]

Spare set of spark plugs properly gapped and the tools to replace them. Standard tool kit items: Screwdrivers, pliers, wrench set, etc. All of this stuff should be stowed in a waterproof container like a military ammo box.

 

[Sprig]

Most people don't know much about outboards or I/O's and unless it's something pretty basic that goes wrong you won't be able to fix it on the water. As far as tools it depends on how knowledgeable and handy you are with engines and outdrives. Back in the day I was a good mechanic when it came to cars but I don't know anything about outboards and I/O' s are a little mysterious too. So as far as tools depending on your expertise I just carry basics so I can fix minor problems like a screw or bolt coming lose or dozens of other minor problems. My simple tool box includes - pliers, needle nose, screwdrivers, open end wrenches, crescent wrench, hammer, channel locks, a sharp knife, some wire, electrical tape and duct tape. I'm sure there are a few other tools in there too. You should also carry spare fuses and light bulbs. Besides the things you mentioned you should carry extra rope and a tow rope. I also carry a set of jumper cables. You may want a vhf marine radio also. Here in calif. many boaters have vhf to chit chat back and forth, get fishing reports from other fishermen, current noaa weather reports and for emergencies. The coast guard, marine patrol, sheriffs dept and others monitor vhf. Oh yeh I also carry a spare prop and know how to change out props.

 

[oldjeep]

I carry a small socket set, prop puller, spare prop, spare impeller, fuses and a small laptop and diacom cables, software.

 

[Bayou Dave]

I carry SAE and Metric wrenches and sockets. Pliars, hammer, screw drivers, duct tape, zip ties, etc. Yesterday I was on the water and came across a pontoon boat that needed help. Pulled along side and he needed a wrench and pliars to pull off his fuel filter. After 15 minutes he got his motor running again. Even though I have never needed any of my tools it did help someone else having them aboard my boat.

 

[gm280]

I would carry a spare spark plug or two and a way to change it. Maybe a typical phillips and flat bladed screwdriver. But what ever you carry with you, it won't be what you need most of the time. I think that has something to do with "Murphy's Law".

 

[Jcris]

On it's maiden voyage (for me) I came across some guy's who'd been out fishing and were having motor problems. It was way after dark and we were just putting along trying to recognize the shore lights for our ramp. Not exactly lost but a bit anxious. They signaled us from quite a distance using a flashlight. We ended up towing them back in. It was a very gratifying feeling , having helped them out.

 

[roffey]

I carry a full socket set, prop wrench with spare prop, flashlight, tow rope, throwing rope (has a float on the end), power steering, motor and gear oil. A cell phone is optional as the reception is spotty at best. As extra I have cleaner, wax with rags for cleaning and buffing. You never know when you have to pull up to a beach and wash and wax the boat, life is hard.