Community Forums

NWLanding · 02-09-2015, 07:23 AM

As newbies we don't have the baseline experience to know what the essential items are that should be in our 'toolbox'. Although we're a few years out I wanted to start thinking about this, particularly as we dump possessions.

We'll likely be getting an all electric Dutch Star 43## coach.

I may do some light maintenance on the engine or other infrastructure. But I don't want to carry more than we need.

Thanks!

vsheetz · 02-09-2015, 07:34 AM

Good question. There are multiple threads here already discussed. Findable via the search feature.

What I have not seen is how to carry tools. I have a roller tool bag (Home Depot Husky brand has a couple three sizes) that works great. Easy to move around outside the RV or over to the neighbor CG space who needs a hand.

Tom3205 · 02-09-2015, 07:45 AM

Duct tape and WD40... if it moves, and shouldn't...tape it
If it does not move, and should, squirt it..

MSHappyCampers · 02-09-2015, 08:09 AM

That's a hard question to answer. We are getting ready to fulltime for a year and I'm trying to determine what to carry also.

It depends a lot on what repairs and mods you will be doing yourself. I try to do all repairs on the MH that is within my capabilities, plus I'm always tinkering around with some mod, so my requirements will be totally different from a guy that pays someone else to do most of his work.

I have two plastic boxes, one for all the hand tools, and another for larger items. Below is a partial list of what I carry.

Skil saw
Jig saw
hack saw
portable vice that will clamp to the picnic table
Rechargeable drill motor
set of wrenches
3 sizes of adjustable wrenches
set of allen wrenches
channel lock pliers, large and small
set of screwdrivers
wire strippers
needle-nose pliers
6" electricians pliers
pliers to crimp electrical connectors
assortment of electrical connectors
assortment of screws
set of hollow-shaft nutdrivers
multi-meter
cable ties
measuring tape
several flashlights including LED headlight
razor knife
drill bits
scissors
small level
T25 staple gun
assortment of fuses
electrical tape
duct tape
chemicals- WD-40, silicone sealant, slide lube, RV Goop, Rejex, etc.
electric leaf blower
extension cords

This list is not complete, but you get the idea!

Clay L · 02-09-2015, 01:09 PM

I have always done almost all of the maintenance on just about everything including TV sets, appliances, and vehicles. I carried enough tools and electronic gear to still be able to do most of it while we lived in our motor home full time for 11 years.
I had the drawer top half of a roll around tool chest plus a smaller drawer set. Enough tools to overhaul an engine with only having to rent a couple of things. Also had saber saw, Makita battery operated 3/8 drill, and Rotozip tool.
Over the years with remodeling and repairing stuff I used a lot of it. Saved a ton of money.

bsirby · 02-09-2015, 02:33 PM

When we started out full time, my husband went through all his tools and kept what he thought he would need. But wouldn't you know it, when we had issues with the awning, he had to borrow tools from our friends we were camping with. Guess what he is going shopping for on pay day....

NWLanding · 02-10-2015, 07:22 AM

Thanks for the detailed list MSHappyCampers. A few nice items I hadn't thought of. Much appreciated!

MSHappyCampers · 02-10-2015, 08:10 AM

I know I left off some important items, such as hammer and vise-grip pliers!

flaggship1 · 02-10-2015, 09:07 AM

A few trays and such. Also IR Gun - electric and plumbing tool boxes as well. Dremel kit.

For plumbing - be sure to have an assortment of quick disconnects, tape, putty, small hacksaw. For electrical - fuses and connectors of all sizes and shapes.

I now have a 1/4 sheet flat sander and a leaf blower and Weed Wacker lol.. some picnic tables are made entirely of splinters.

A battery jumper box - jumped a neighbor day before yesterday. A stand alone battery charger. I also have a 50 foot set of jumper cables.

I'm not particularly handy or clever but have met many who are and don't have much in the way of tools. I'm always on the spot to assist and lend a tool if needed. Much prefer that over using them myself.

MSHappyCampers · 02-10-2015, 09:10 AM

WOW! Steve, that's impressive!

CampDaven · 02-10-2015, 09:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MSHappyCampers

I know I left off some important items, such as hammer and vise-grip pliers!

Zip ties. Metal coat hangers. Gorilla tape. Fixes 75% of everything!

Really!

RVM1
AKA: Captain Forehead

flaggship1 · 02-10-2015, 09:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MSHappyCampers

WOW! Steve, that's impressive!

Thanks Joe. Remember, I was on a 5 year plan to retire and go full time. While I was working every spare penny went into getting new tools - paying off motor home, car etc. No debt, lots of tools. Lol.

It's been great so far. I hope your plans are coming together.

DonaandDon · 02-10-2015, 09:43 AM

Built a wood holder for the center section of my tall boy tool box. The drawers are locked visa the key and it also holds various power tools/grease gun. While away it seams to be enough tools. Although I seam to date and modify the required tools carried.

NWLanding · 02-10-2015, 08:13 PM

Thanks Flagship1. A picture is worth a thousand words! This will really help me cull out my existing tools and fill in the gaps. I've got a complete woodworking shop to downsize from this year but I think this thread has identified a few things I'm going to hang on to. Like my Fein Multimaster.

Thanks for contributing to the discussion!