Sailors' Tools
Sailors' tools are basically everything you need to have to cope with a problem that arises on your boat as you're out at sea. The kinds of tools a sailor needs vary depending on the type of boating being done. For example, if the boating trip is a short one, you do not need many tools. On the other hand, if the trip is out on the ocean, you need plenty of tools.
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Mechanical Tools
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Mechanical tools are the sailors' tools needed for repair of a boat's mechanical systems, such as its engine. These tools are also useful for maintenance of a boat's systems. Assorted vise grips and screwdrivers (such as Allen, Torx, Philips blades and flat) are part of a sailor's toolkit. It is also wise to have metal and wood chisels, a small sledge, a hacksaw that features extra blades, a sizable group of channel locks, a pipe wrench, some drift punches, a tape measure and a claw hammer.
Electrical System
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As a sailor, you should have tools that specifically address any potential electrical issues on your boat, should they occur. Basic electrical system tools include a digital multimeter, an electric thermal crimping tool, electrical tape from a known brand such as 3M and a butane torch for use in heat shrink terminals. You also need assorted yellow and red wire; the size 12 AWG is good because it can handle heavy loads. It is also prudent to have spare batteries on board for any equipment requiring them, such as flashlights.
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Rigging
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Rigging is the device through which the wind's force is used to propel a sailboat. Rigging can include masts, cordage, sails and yards. To prevent anything from happening to your boat's rigging, you need the following tools to maintain the rigging: a spare sailcloth, sail repair tape, a pair of extra tough scissors, beeswax, whipping twine, sail repair thread, sail maker's needles, a sail maker's palm, an awl, a bosun's chair and stainless steel wire. You should also carry some small line for any lashings, repairs or messenger lines.
Plumbing
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Plumbing sailors' tools ensure you can deal with any water-related and plumbing-system problems on your boat, if they occur. Some basic plumbing tools are plumber's putty, Teflon tape, rescue tape (or any other kind of self-fusing silicone tape), some duct tape and a spare hose in the same size that you use on your boat. Wooden bungs will also come in handy, and they should be in the size of the through-hulls on your boat.
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