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MARINE TECHNICIAN TODAY
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FALL 2014
There is another implement that I rely on for almost every repair situation.
Sometimes called stork pliers or right-angle needle-nose, Snap-on’s
Pistol Grip pliers have heavy-duty jaws over 2” long and a spring-loaded
handle remains open until squeezed. A pistol grip allows for a comfortable
wrist position while the 10-5/8” length makes it handy. In addition to
those pliers I carry extended length needle-nose pliers made by SnapOn.
About 6” longer than traditional needle-nose pliers, their extended reach
facilitates working on outboard motors and stern drives. For those panicky
“Oh $#%!” moments, manipulating a pair of these lengthy pliers eases the
anguish of retrieval should you drop something down in the bilge.
Knipex Cobra Pliers #8701180 in the 7” size is so much easier and
quicker than using a pair of traditional pliers. Its right-angled head makes
it more comfortable and effective in confined spaces, and the one-handed
adjustment settings saves time and awkward maneuvering in engine
compartments. No longer will you be ostracized by someone for gripping
a nut or bolt with pliers. These Cobra Pliers have properly shaped notches
on both jaws to fit the corners of a hex shaped fastener without leaving
teeth marks or slipping off. In addition, its jaws fit round, square, and odd
shape articles securely. You will never use ordinary pliers again once you
get used to them.
For striking, forming, or loosening something, nothing beats a good
bronze hammer. A steel ball-peen hammer can damage or leave marks
on metal pieces, plus it mushrooms over the ends of punches and chisels
leaving sharp edges that cut skin. A brass hammer has its uses, but is
too soft for most boat and motor work and deforms easily. Bronze seems
to have the right amount of hardness yet does not damage the finish of
steel parts, and as proof, the impact ends of my 25 year old punches
still have their smooth, original shape. They are not cheap, but you will
discover that it is more versatile than having to lug around both steel and
brass hammers.
There is not much to discuss about screwdrivers except to buy high-quality
versions, and the best ones have a rough chrome or a sand-blasted finish
on the tip to stay in the screw’s recess or slot securely. It is beneficial to
choose screwdrivers with a bolster at the handle or with a square shank to
fit an open-end wrench when extra twisting torque is required. A cabinet
screwdriver design has the same size shaft diameter and blade width
The 3 Rules for
Fixing Something:
1. Always use the
correct tool for the job.
2. The correct tool is always
a hammer.
3. Any tool can be used as
a hammer.
,
TODAY’S TECHNICIAN
