Wrenching techniques

[prairieboy]

I was just curious if anyone else thought of/or already use power tools to work on their boats.

I've had the pleasure to work on my engines over the last couple months and I've had to remove the airbox among other parts a couple of times now and each time as I am removing or reinstalling the overly long bolts with my ratchet that if anyone uses a smaller impact drill or driver to turn them in with a little less effort and time.

I'm not talking hammering them in with an air impact or anything, but maybe thinking of a smaller 9 or 12 volt drill/driver or impact. I certainly wouldn't use them like I'm spinning lugs on a tire change-over, but just speeding the process up a bit.

Anyone ever do this or is this ill-advised because of all the aluminum threads etc.

 

[howie099]

I use air ratchets where they will fit and check them with hand tools.

 

[philipmurphey]

I agree with Howie099, I use an battery impact and its cuts my work time at least in half. I only use it until I hear the first "impact sound" then finish tighten with hand tool of choice.

 

[Ankeneyou]

I just use my 18v drill with the clutch set low. Can use either hex keys with the ball end or the regular with a socket pivot adaptor. Then hand tighten.

A small right angle drill would be nice but I don't currently have one.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

I keep a couple of these (1/4", 3/8" drive) handy for when it's time to race against the guys with air tools. By the time they get set up with air hoses and stuff, my 14 bolt oil pan's already off. Then I put it away ready for the next race day, lol.

I have a couple speed screwdrivers handy too, but honestly the torque isn't great enough in many cases thus the electric screwdriver usually whips my butt....

Used to have a spiral driver as well and it was pretty decent except for made me nervous of thread damage due to pushing hard. Maybe okay for quick assembly work perhaps.... That one grew legs about 20 years ago and haven't seen it since.

 

[LouDoo]

For a ski you can't beat air tools, I have a stubby 3/8" I use most of the time. I've not worked on a Seadoo boat so maybe there's more room to work.

Lou

 

[ialonso]

I have a cordless driver that works great. it's a must have. Also any bolts that can be replaced with hex bolts, have been replaced.