TOOLS FOR THE OUTBOARD

A new outboard comes equipped with a small toolkit, but if you don’t have the luxury of buying new, it’s a smart idea to put together a kit of your own for those unexpected breakdowns far from shore. Placed in a small waterproof bag, these tools may find a home in the dinghy or even fit under the cowl without disrupting the regular operation of the outboard, and will always be on hand when you need them.

Essentials and a few handy extras include:

> Spark-plug wrench > Extra spark plugs to suit your engine (check manufacturers’ recommendations for proper model number and gap measurements) > Spare pull cord > Ratchet and sockets to fit all nuts > Combo screwdriver > Spare cotter pin > Pliers > Electrical tape > WD40, small can