WHAT TOOLS SHOULD RVers HAVE?
By: Bob Gummersall
I am often asked what tools should an rver take with him. That is a very interesting question and the answer depends on who is asking the question. I will try to profile RVers in three general classes and recommend what tools should be on board.
Class I — This class is characterized by the RVers with two thumbs on each hand syndrome. Each one of us posses a set of different talents and capabilities. Those in this class who are not mechanically or electrically inclined need a very small tool kit. I recommend the following tools purchased from a quality supplier or store.
Large mount water pump pliers. $20
A classic Leatherman combination tool. $40
A set of _" drive sockets, screw drivers, torex drivers, Allen drivers $25
A set of 3/8" drive deep sockets with extenders and ratchet handle. $20
A set of end wrenches or spanners, large and small crescent wrench. $30
A set of flat, phillips, and square head screw drivers -- small, medium and large. $30
A digital volt ohm meter $35
A battery hydrometer $10
A right angle flat, philips, square and torex screw driver $10
A diagonal cutter $15
Tire Gauge $15
A small tool box or bag. $20.
Total Estimated Cost $275
[Ed Note: Most of us would be covered by this list. What follows relates only to the more technically proficient.]
Class II — This class is characterized by people who can fix most things around the house and are handy with automotive electrical and electronic systems. This list is additive to the above Class I List.
1. High quality wire crimper. $20
2. A quality wire stripper $15
3. A full assortment of wire, fuses, butt connectors, electrical tape etc $50
4. A clamp-on AC/DC amp digital volt, ohm, amp meter. Ie Fluke $150
5. A Polarity/ground fault tester. $10
6. An Inductance AC finder with light and buzzer. $10
7. A _" Socket Set with ratchet and extenders. $30
8. Cordless 3/8" drill and charger $200
9. Electric Reciprocating Saw. $100
10.Large Mechanics Tool Box to fit a storage bay. $200
11.12 volt dc test lamp with wire plunger clamp $20
12.120 volt ac test lamp $20
13.Large cable cutter $30
14.Hack Saw and Metal Files $25
15.Small set of metal chisels $30
16.Small set of wood chisels $25
17.Ballpeane hammer $20
18.Small Clamp on Vise $35
19.Soudering Iron $20
20.Strap type Oil Filter Wrench $25
21.Set of long shank screw drivers $30
22.Set of high quality twist drill bits $50
23.Set of wood hole saws up to 1" $40
24.Tire Depth Gauge $10
25.Digital Temperature Meter with a thermocouple sensor $50
26.Poprivet gun $25
Total Cost $1515
Class III — This is the person who has to have exactly the right tool for all jobs and wants to have them with him at all times.
This person should go the a real tool store and buy one of each of everything along with several tool cases and chests. He then needs to dedicate one complete storage compartment and 1000 lbs of payload capacity. This option will cost at least $3000 more. He will also have to use a library check out procedure because everyone will want to borrow one or more of his tools.
Total Cost $4515
How to use all these tools is a subject for several more articles. Is there anyone out there that would like to submit their list of tools and how you use them If so, submit and article for publishing so that others can learn from your experience. See you down the road, and I’ll have my tool check out cards ready. Bob