What is the most useful tool for restorations?

[drewpster]

If the moderators agree I would like to make this a tool list for those just getting started. I would also like to see some uncommon specialty tools others may have for doing restoration work.

The most useful tool I have at this point has been my el-cheapo Harbor Freight 4 1/2" grinder. I used it at every point so far and it has held up! I am surprised about that. $30 well spent.

 

[trendsetter240]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

How about 3M 4200 and 5200. Very usefull for making strong water-tight seals. 4200 if you ever need to remove the seal and 5200 for absolutely permanent and underwater seals.

 

[thrillhouse700]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

Lets make it a picture thread!!! Great Idea drewp. Next time I'm at the boat I will take pictures of my specialty tools

 

[salty87]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

don't forget flap discs for the grinder

sawzall works great for cutting stringers out in mostly one piece. comes in handy when re-creating stringers if you have something to refer to.

 

[TojosMojo]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

Don't forget about these two cut-off wheeled time savers...

 

[bailey]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

Guys you are missing the boat. The most important tool is your "computer" because it not only enables you to use this "site" to help you with any problems that arise but more importantly it keeps you all motivated.
Just my thought!
Bailey

 

[TojosMojo]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

Sorry but I had to include these pry bars...

 

[TojosMojo]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

Guys you are missing the boat. The most important tool is your "computer" because it not only enables you to use this "site" to help you with any problems that arise but more importantly it keeps you all motivated.
Just my thought!
Bailey

I thought of that but, but decided to let someone else bring that one up...besides you can see my keyboard in that first pic...

 

[mike64]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

(Haven't done a full resto yet, but I think I would want plenty of that to help me through it)

 

[allpoints360]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

All sanding and no play makes Jack a dull boy...

 

[NoKlu]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

I think for most of you guy's it would be an understanding and patient wife/family. And don't forget the dull chainsaw.

 

[eph445]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

This thread should be a "sticky"

 

[chrishayes]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

A weak mind and a strong back!

 

[joza]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

Here is my contribution. My wife and I call this the wonder tool. Because we wonder what in the hell we would have done without it.

We live in an old farmhouse built in 1864. The exterior of the house was in rough shape and a few years ago we decided to paint it. Tons of old paint and caulk in corners, all kinds of scraping... you know the drill. The wonder tool never left my side, nor does now for any project. I think we went through about 8 or 9 painting the house.

Well the wonder tool found it's place in my Red Fish restoration as well. It was perfect for getting leftovers out or to give a quick scrape. I'll probably be buying number 2 for the boat soon... you can only sharpen them so often you know.

All hail the wonder tool!

 

[bigredinohio]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

Hammer and chisel
Angle grinder
Dremel Tool with cut off wheel
Cheap HF Sander/Polisher (adjustable speed)
Clamps (homemade & store-bought)
Saw (both circular and jig)
Finish sander

 

[BWR1953]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

A GARAGE! Or maybe a big workshop. SOMETHING to be able to get the project indoors. Lack of one was a factor in my decision to sell my two project boats. Wasn't worth spending $20,000 for a new garage to refurbish a couple of cheap boats! LOL!

 

[thrillhouse700]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

2x4's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! These are so effing helpful. and the free paint stir sticks from HD.

 

[NickyBFWB]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

/me starts making his Home Depot shopping list... Come on feed me more!!!

For me a good tool is a hoist for taking those engines out of the boat. Oh and a good strong tree if you have one available.

 

[gunner1]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

A credit card with a high limit!!

 

[bigredinohio]

Re: What is the most useful tool for restorations?

A credit card with a high limit!!

lol...AMEN!