What's in your toolbox?

[C.W.]

This thread originally was going to be "standard or metric"?

I'm buying a used boat soon and want to put a toolbag together to leave on board and am looking for recommendations on what to throw in besides screwdrivers, socket sets, pliers, zip ties, clamps, duct tape, and a big &%^$ hammer...thanks! Any speciality tools I should purchase?

If anyone knows the answer to "standard or metric" I'd appreciate that too:thumbsup:

 

[elreyos]

You need a good digital volt/ohm meter, and a cordless drill and bits. Also an assortment of electrical connectors. Oh yes one more thing would be an assortment of would plugs. That should get you started.

 

[elreyos]

I mean wooden plugs.

 

[elreyos]

You know with reference to the sae vs metric question, I bought one those package deals at Costco with metric and sae sockets and wrenches. it was less than 100$. It's got every thing, pliars, screwdriver bits and handle, allens(sae and metric). It's been pretty handy. I have not done much wrenchin on the engines they are probably metric since Cat sells world wide. A lot will depend on the what boat you get. Anyway that's my opinion, I'm sure there's of others.

 

[OldSkool]

Invest in a good set of oil/fuel filter wrenches and metric/SAE allen wrench set.

 

[C.W.]

Good info guys - thanks!. Wooden plugs: what size, shape, etc? Like hose plugs or big enough to shut a pie hole

 

[LTD.330]

Rescue Tape. It's a silicone based tape you can wrap around water lines, possibly exhaust hoses.

Instead of wooden bungs, go with the TruPlug from forespar.com

 

[elreyos]

I got a package of plugs from West Marine. They vary in from about half inch to 2 inches. God forbid you ever need them but you'll be able to hammer em in with that big hammer.

 

[C.W.]

Good call guys - the truplug looks like a good idea.

 

[dev6315]

Make sure you have a nice selection of different size worm-gear clamps. I also keep a small jar of various nuts and bolts for replacements. Also, a bag of different sized wire-ties or zip ties, they are priceless in a jam.

 

[tdappleman]

I have a Snap On wrench and socket set in a plastic case and also a mix of tools in a soft case. The mix includes all of what has been mentioned here as well as 12v test light, 3 flashlights, wire connectors and crimpers. A good all in one auto set in a case will give you a great start - some even come with the hammer. I originally had a cheap set as I didn't want to lose quality tools in the water but after they rusted and didn't work like I wanted them too I upgraded.

 

[Dasch Boat]

I dock my boat in my yard so I don't keep all of my tools on board for a day on the bay. I just keep the basics in plastic tool box (adjustable wrenches, slip joint pliers, diag. cutters, water pump pliers, hammer, vise-grips, screw drivers, allen wrenches, utility knife, razor blades, painters 5 point tool, etc.) I also keep tie wraps, duct tape, elec. tape, bailing wire, rags and assorted wood plugs. If I can't do a repair and limp home I also carry my Sea Tow card.

 

[4props]

small can of WD-40