The Essential Boat Maintenance Tools

While some boat maintenance and repair jobs are best left to the professionals, there are many issues that you can resolve right in your own garage. However, attempting to do so without the correct tools is a recipe for disaster. That is why Rhode Island Watersports has created this guide to basic boat maintenance tools. With the tools on this list, you will be well on your way to performing basic boat maintenance.

1. Battery Terminal Puller

Using the wrong tool to install or remove the terminals on your boat’s battery can result in them becoming stripped. A battery terminal puller is a budget-friendly tool designed to help make this task easier. It gives you the ideal amount of strength and precision to loosen terminal bolts quickly without the risk of damaging anything. 

2. A Sharp Blade

A sharp blade, whether it takes the form of a folding knife, a rigging knife, or scissors, is a very useful tool when it comes to boat maintenance. It can be used for cutting rope, trimming nets, slicing lines in an emergency situation, cutting gaskets, undoing knots, and more.  

Try to find a blade made from stainless steel or titanium if possible, since these materials won’t corrode. You may also want to look for a blade specifically designed to float. This will make it so much easier to retrieve the blade if you accidentally drop it or it otherwise finds its way overboard. 

3. Jumper Cables

Jumper cables offer an easy solution to a dead battery. However, make sure that you spend enough to get a quality set. A cheaper set of cables might not be able to handle the amount of power involved. 

4. Sailor's Multitool

The right multitool can save you a lot of space. You can even purchase multitools specifically designed for marine usage. Features to look out for include a marlinspike, rope cutter, bottle opener, can opener, small blade, hex-nut wrench, zipper pull, and a paint scraper. 

5. Moisture Meter

Built-up moisture can cause major problems when it comes to boat repair. A moisture meter can give you a quick digital reading of the moisture levels around your boat, making it easy to detect leaks and other problem areas so that you can fix the problem. 

If you are ready to shop boats, visit Rhode Island Watersports in Oakland, Rhode Island. We also offer parts, servicing, trade-ins, and financing, so visit us for all your boating needs. We are proud to serve communities like Boston, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island. We hope to see you soon!