Toolbox - What tools?

Max123

Well-Known Member
I've got a relatively complete tool set in my garage, and bring a small toolbox out with me on the boat - but so far it seems relatively haphazard and its mostly the tools I needed for the last job I did. I don't have duplicates/dedicated tools for the boat so inevitably I grab a tool and forget to put it back in the boat toolbox.

I wanted to get a bit more disciplined and buy the right toolbox and get a set of dedicated 'boat only' tools and I'm looking for recommendations or items that I might be missing. Application is for day-use boating - not longterm/multi-day use, which would warrant a much larger toolkit.

Whenever people post about their toolboxes it seems like there is massive tool inflation about what you need. This isn't about having everything, its about having a tight set of tools for critical work to get you back to the launch, or get you on the water if you discover something minor at the dock. If I need to do major work back at the marina, I'm fine if I have to bring some tools from home.

Here's my list:
- Battery jump box (basic Canadian Tire unit)
- Spare drain plug
- Prop wrench, spare cotter pins, small 2x4 to hold prop
- Spare prop with thrust washer, lock washer, prop nut zap strapped through the prop
- Zap straps (various sizes)
- Stainless tie wire
- Roll of self fusing tape (Rescue Tape)
- Leatherman (mainly for the pliers)
- Olfa Utility Knife (because Leatherman's suck if you actually want to cut something like a hose)
- Channel lock pliers
- Crescent wrench
- Multibit Screwdriver (Picquic)
- Set of allen keys
- Hatchet
- Small butane torch
- spare 10amp fuses
- Small tube grease + small spray can penetrating oil
- Roll of blue shop paper towels

Anything you would recommend on top of this? Recommendations on a particular toolbox?

I realize I'm missing a set of trailer specific tools, but the boat is parked/launched directly at the marina (into fresh water) so it hasn't been critical. I also keep a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, plus a tow rope and shackles - this is toolbox specific, and not a general list of everything I need to have on the boat.
 
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I’ve owned many IO ( think everybody knows lol) needed a mechanic tool set in the boat at all times 😡😡😡) now I pack a crescent wrench, Chanel lock pliers, and a few screwdrivers that’s it. Tools stay in the shed at camp f…I….
 
I couldn't find a good analog multimeter tester that I have on my boat but these are cheap and well reviewed. I'd add 40amp fuses and a multimeter if you run ace trap haulers https://amzn.to/3FNrsik #ad
Boat don’t leave without all kinds of 12v electrical supply’s and a fluke, funny is I just did a friendly service call to a buddy at gateway yesterday, lost power to his gps,he’s better then me at twisting cut plugs but I got him on boat 12v system
 
German made pliers wrench runs rings around crescent wrenches and channel lock pliers. Also better than any crimper you've ever owned, because the jaws stay parallel instead of scissoring.

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The Picquic multi bit driver is just as versatile. The bits all fit in a 1/4" hex drive impact chuck, and the flippable drive section works as 1/4" and 5/16" nut drivers. Perfect for all those gear clamps on a boat.
 
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