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Don't buy tools at a "marine" store.
Thank you for the helpful ideas. I will start looking for the tools and a good storage.Stu Jackson said:The size of your boat would be helpful. The tools I needed on our C22 were way different than what I needed on our C25 and now with our diesel engine on our C34.
Don't buy cheap tools. You end up paying for them in the end. I still have a Craftsman socket ratchet set from my 1971 VW Bug!
If you buy a "set" of tools, make sure that each and every "bit" has a place that "locks" the tools into the case, or else one day you'll open it upside down and spend days putting stuff back.
Most kits won't have channel lock pliers, always good to have.
Don't buy tools at a "marine" store.
I use our nav station for tool storage, with a kitchen utensil separator. I find it's a lot easier to get to and replace tools than a separate "tool" bag or box - I don't have to dig around to find stuff. I found a different place for our charts. The table top is held up by a spring hatch holder.
Most sailing books will give you a good list of tools you need. Most of the time you'll find that only a half dozen sizes are needed. Popular sizes are the usually 1/4, 1/2, 9/16 variety. Hose clamp screws are 9/32 and we've found a ratchet socket on those makes it fast work.
An impact screwdriver is invaluable for stubborn fasteners.
You'll end up with some specialized tools that you will find come in handy. I have mine, you'll have yours. Best one for me so far (since 1998 with this boat): a drywall screw to remove stuffing from a stuffing box!
You should also assemble an electrical kit.
Thank you you for the good ideaskappykaplan said:WM has a good marine tool kit with wrenches, sockets, allen wrenches, screw drivers, pliers, etc. You'll want to also purchase a hacksaw, spare blades, extra-large flathead screw driver, hammer, mallet, and multimeter. I keep all my tools in what I call my DC locker, and I teach my crew that's where everything can be found - including first aid kits.
Ah. McLube. Love that stuff. 1000s of uses!Oh, and a can of McLube and some electrical tape.
Don't forget a cork screw and bottle opener and maybe a shaker/strainer for cocktails. I know with some people the only thing they can fix on a boat is a martini. ;-)