I agree! Not a new RV-er, but definitely need a refresher course, it's been years! And the information that he is offering is extremely valuable. Just subscribed myself!
I love a no BS, straightforward recommendation list. Excellent list (although a caulk gun has never been in my tool kit). The only thing I think you missed is a hammer. When all else fails...
After being full time in a 26 year old class A I think your right on the money on needed tools. I could not make it without the cordless drill and multi-meter.
Been RVing well over 30 yrs. Besides a well rounded set of tools as said in this video and yes plumbing tools as mentioned in one of the post Remember rvs have both pvc and pex systems so make sure to carry tools for both as well. As in electrical rvs run both on AC voltage as in dc voltage as well. You’ll need tools for both as well. 1 piece of tool that is not mentioned and has saved me countless times is a ladder if your rv does not have a roof access ladder.
Thanks for posting, your videos are helpful. I was on the fence about a meter with an amp probe because I've never really needed one before, but now I see that it's a good idea to have one.
🚐 Great content! For those who can’t get enough of RV parts and accessories, we’ve just released a new video showcasing the best picks for your next adventure. Discover top-rated gear and innovative upgrades that will make your RV experience even better! 🌟
I'm about to do a similar video soon! I love you list. :) I've often said that having the tools and not having the knowledge to use the is OK because you can often run across a person who has the KNOWLEDGE and EXPERIENCE to solve a problem. If you have the tools and they have the ability, voila! LOL on the flashlight addiction... Hi. I'm Darrin. I'm addicted to flashlights. The first step is to admit you have a problem, right??? :)
Thank you for a great video. Newbie here also, will be getting our Rig in the spring. Was just at Home Depot over the holiday weekend with the wife. OMG talk about getting the Green Light to buy, lol But not yet. Your video was just what I needed to watch. Many Thanks, and again thank you for your time and expertise in the RV business.
As an HVAC tech, I recommend that whatever multimeter you get, MAKE SURE IT HAS A BACK LIGHT FUNCTION. Also, make sure it can read micro amps-you'll need this to check your furnace flame sensor.
Good job bud. I have most of them but for the meter reader guess it's time to go to harbor freight and find one or my local snap on truck will do as well
One thing about power tools is something that (my rv works) suggests having a 12 volt system. This gives you a portable 12 volt power source, in addition to the tool, for troubleshooting. Just make sure you can access the battery terminals.
My RV has a number of #1 and #2 Robertson screws. So you need those bits as well. I have the impact bit driver, an electric drill and a 3/8" impact for removing lug nuts and other suspension components. I carry a bottle jack with large base capable of lifting the RV wheel off of the ground. Along with Jack stands for safety. A Quarter inch and 3/8" drive socket sets with additional impact sockets in common sizes. Additionally a set of pliers, and a cutting tool. Multimeter, 12 volt power and ground test light. Of course a set of bits for the impact bit driver as well as standard screwdrivers, including two Robertson screwdrivers. I also have an Axe, folding shovel and step ladder. (There is a ladder attached to the RV to get on the roof.) I also keep an assortment of sealants, glues, and cleaning materials. I used to carry a soldering iron, but found the problem when you are not connected to power. I now keep a set of crimp style connectors for barious wire sizes, along with a crimping tool. A sharp knife, as well as some tupbing and fittings for water and gas line repair.
Most people don't know how to use a multimeter. As far as testing the pedestal for high/low voltage, you have to know into what slots to stick the probes, because if you stick them into the wrong pair you can destroy the meter. They make plugin devices that do the checking for you with LED lights that tell the user the status of the power supply. I'd rather people bought those than a multimeter. Of course you can do a lot more with the meter, but most people don't know how to do those things. I have never seen one of those little plastic prybars. If you know where to acquire these tools, it would be a good idea to post links to where they can be purchased in the description of your video. That 3/4 socket bit is also something I have never seen. I like it because it is shorter than an adapter and regular socket combination. You should advise your viewers that they should get a flashlight with X lumens. I have a 2 AA, pocket, flashlight that puts out a lot of light for being so small. It's 250 lumens. I don't really know if that a little, a lot, or just good enough, but it works perfectly for me.
I got an inexpensive set of plastic pry bars from Harbor Freight. Found them in the auto body section of the store. They may not be of the highest quality but I am not running a body shop and if one breaks I’ll just pick up another set.
You don’t having any plumbing related tools, that is a common failure area for RVs, I carry a tubing cutter and a PEX crimper, specifically a ratcheting crimper that can be used with one hand because most of my fittings are in hard to reach areas.
Very very true about flashlights. I don’t know why I have so many. One in almost every room of the house for emergency. I like those lil (2) aaa flashlights you can get at Walmart for $2. When power goes out, those lil flash lights lead me to the bigger flash lights lol. Great video btw. Add some plumbing tools along with tools from this video and you are set
To me, a star-wrench to loosen lug nuts on a flat tire and a torque wrench to properly tighten them are essential. With some random wood blocks available to ramp flat trailer tire off the ground, any able person can safely change a trailer or fifth wheel tire. You can spend hundreds of dollars or do it yourself. Many small towns, like Kanab, Utah have no one who can change a tire on the same day. I changed the flat tire and traveled to Las Vegas to complete the repai. It cost me nothing.
Could you please do something on changing out the lights in the ceiling of RV's? The ones in the RV you did this in looks like mine. I don't know if I have to change the whole things and do wiring or what. Where is the best place to buy them?
So you make sure to use Torx, and Phillips names, but you call a Robertson a "Square Bit", interesting. don't let that observation fool you. I love your videos.
Pro tip: DON'T keep this stuff in your trailer, keep it in your truck! That way you have it available anywhere you go. If you tow your RV, your truck will be with you.
You need to call the "drill what ot is .. An impact driver. It could confuse someone going to get one...& you might say they need a drill to drill holes, but they can find drill bits with her drives.
Overall ...good stuff. Minor thought, although an impact is generally a more compact tool it does not have a clutch and because it's Impact a novice will tend to strip screws and such much more easily than you or I might. But certainly best choice for jacks etc. Multimeter = Good Choice. I use Torx Security set, can do both with one set. Didn't see your "5 Tools"... but great job. Thank you
Don't ask me how I know, but DO NOT use an impact tool for stabilizer jacks! It will shear the split pin and your jack will need to be strapped up after it is broken and hanging down limp - not good!
I wish you can anticipate any repair situation when on the road. I carry a tool kit in my RV. But when something breaks, it's usually a trip to the hardware store, not for a tool, but for parts. Duct tape, zip ties go a long way. Your tool kit should also include a credit card.
Good video RV Tech, may I suggest less motion with your camera or use of a pedestal and better editing. It would make it easier for newbies to follow your recommendations and your chain-of-thought. I know it takes time but some of your viewers ask very pertinent questions that are left unanswered - at least on this video. Thank you, Ciao, L
While its obvious your intentions are good, an impact wrench has no place for normal maintenance in an RV. A drill with a torque clutch is the way to go. That way you can use a low torque setting and prevent stripped fasteners in RV walls, floors, ceilings, appliances etc. As far as using an impact on stabilizers; most stabilizers are made with soft steel (not tempered) and an impact can gall the threads and ruin the stabilizer. Again, a drill is a better option. As far as diagnostics with a multimeter, most people aren't going to have the know how to use one nor will the average person try and diagnose some of the things you named such as appliances and control panels. IMO opinion the average RV'er is going to be better suited with common hand tools to do simple repairs and maintenance such as drivers, sockets, wrenches, a hammer, pliers etc.
This question is more about 9th Grade Science... Units of electrical measurement. Volts - electrical pressure Amps - amount of electrical flow Ohms - electrical resistance Watts - electrical power
Just a note....... Thats alot more than 5 tools. More like 200 tools. I understand that its a hard list to narrow down, but jeeze... The title should be "Just get a Matco truck to follow you around"
Just some constructive comments: Obviously many more than 5 tools covered. Opinion only- With space considerations I'd just get a 3/4" drive drill/driver. More torque and more versatility. Flashlights? get one with as few features as you can. The new l.e.d. ones can do annoying things if the batteries get low. Meters: frankly I use the amp clamp feature rarely and could probably do without it, but you should mention that the a/c and d/c models cost more. -There are at least 2 other ways to find and detect parasitic drain with just the volts selection on the meter. These days there are some people out there that probably assume you carry that monster tool box in your rv....you should probably clear that up :). To be fair I quit watching about 2 thirds of the way though.
OK, so i just have to +1 the addiction to flashlights. I'll admit right away I have this problem. But for some reason, other tools I don't have this fixation.. why?! some sort of study needs to be done...
Square drive, also known as Robinson screws make up most of the fasteners in the RV industry. I have a podcast I’m starting soon and the name of it will actually be “square bits & sine waves”
Dude, I hope you know how valuable your videos and teaching is to us new RV'ers. Definitely a subscriber.
I agree! Not a new RV-er, but definitely need a refresher course, it's been years! And the information that he is offering is extremely valuable. Just subscribed myself!
YOU ~ ROCK ! ! 👍🇺🇸🤛😉
I love a no BS, straightforward recommendation list. Excellent list (although a caulk gun has never been in my tool kit). The only thing I think you missed is a hammer. When all else fails...
I would add PEX pipe tools. Just a simple PEX clamp tool with a short piece of 1/2 inch pipe and few connectors. Also, PEX pipe cutter.
This video definitely deserves a part 2 👍
After being full time in a 26 year old class A I think your right on the money on needed tools. I could not make it without the cordless drill and multi-meter.
That was way more than 5!
Been RVing well over 30 yrs. Besides a well rounded set of tools as said in this video and yes plumbing tools as mentioned in one of the post Remember rvs have both pvc and pex systems so make sure to carry tools for both as well. As in electrical rvs run both on AC voltage as in dc voltage as well. You’ll need tools for both as well. 1 piece of tool that is not mentioned and has saved me countless times is a ladder if your rv does not have a roof access ladder.
This is the best Rv channel on RUclips
Thanks for posting, your videos are helpful.
I was on the fence about a meter with an amp probe because I've never really needed one before, but now I see that it's a good idea to have one.
🚐 Great content! For those who can’t get enough of RV parts and accessories, we’ve just released a new video showcasing the best picks for your next adventure. Discover top-rated gear and innovative upgrades that will make your RV experience even better! 🌟
I’m fairly new to RVing, really appreciate you videos. THANK YOU SO MUCH for the info. Happy Thanksgiving 🍁🦃
Thank you this has been really helpful for us newbies!!
I'm about to do a similar video soon! I love you list. :) I've often said that having the tools and not having the knowledge to use the is OK because you can often run across a person who has the KNOWLEDGE and EXPERIENCE to solve a problem. If you have the tools and they have the ability, voila! LOL on the flashlight addiction... Hi. I'm Darrin. I'm addicted to flashlights. The first step is to admit you have a problem, right??? :)
Great channel for us newer RVers. Definitely subbed. Thanks. 😊
Thank you for a great video.
Newbie here also, will be getting our Rig in the spring.
Was just at Home Depot over the holiday weekend with the wife.
OMG talk about getting the Green Light to buy, lol
But not yet.
Your video was just what I needed to watch.
Many Thanks, and again thank you for your time and expertise in the RV business.
Great video and a great list!
As an HVAC tech, I recommend that whatever multimeter you get, MAKE SURE IT HAS A BACK LIGHT FUNCTION. Also, make sure it can read micro amps-you'll need this to check your furnace flame sensor.
Yes ! A timely video. But I’m a new subscriber now- so many mobile mechanics are too busy to show up. Your channel will be valuable !
Good job bud. I have most of them but for the meter reader guess it's time to go to harbor freight and find one or my local snap on truck will do as well
One thing about power tools is something that (my rv works) suggests having a 12 volt system. This gives you a portable 12 volt power source, in addition to the tool, for troubleshooting. Just make sure you can access the battery terminals.
If you’re on my TikTok take a look at the 12v test tool I just posted
My RV has a number of #1 and #2 Robertson screws. So you need those bits as well. I have the impact bit driver, an electric drill and a 3/8" impact for removing lug nuts and other suspension components. I carry a bottle jack with large base capable of lifting the RV wheel off of the ground. Along with Jack stands for safety. A Quarter inch and 3/8" drive socket sets with additional impact sockets in common sizes. Additionally a set of pliers, and a cutting tool. Multimeter, 12 volt power and ground test light. Of course a set of bits for the impact bit driver as well as standard screwdrivers, including two Robertson screwdrivers. I also have an Axe, folding shovel and step ladder. (There is a ladder attached to the RV to get on the roof.) I also keep an assortment of sealants, glues, and cleaning materials. I used to carry a soldering iron, but found the problem when you are not connected to power. I now keep a set of crimp style connectors for barious wire sizes, along with a crimping tool. A sharp knife, as well as some tupbing and fittings for water and gas line repair.
Most people don't know how to use a multimeter. As far as testing the pedestal for high/low voltage, you have to know into what slots to stick the probes, because if you stick them into the wrong pair you can destroy the meter. They make plugin devices that do the checking for you with LED lights that tell the user the status of the power supply. I'd rather people bought those than a multimeter. Of course you can do a lot more with the meter, but most people don't know how to do those things.
I have never seen one of those little plastic prybars. If you know where to acquire these tools, it would be a good idea to post links to where they can be purchased in the description of your video. That 3/4 socket bit is also something I have never seen. I like it because it is shorter than an adapter and regular socket combination.
You should advise your viewers that they should get a flashlight with X lumens. I have a 2 AA, pocket, flashlight that puts out a lot of light for being so small. It's 250 lumens. I don't really know if that a little, a lot, or just good enough, but it works perfectly for me.
I got an inexpensive set of plastic pry bars from Harbor Freight. Found them in the auto body section of the store. They may not be of the highest quality but I am not running a body shop and if one breaks I’ll just pick up another set.
You don’t having any plumbing related tools, that is a common failure area for RVs, I carry a tubing cutter and a PEX crimper, specifically a ratcheting crimper that can be used with one hand because most of my fittings are in hard to reach areas.
Thank you I will make sure to add them to my list
Oh yes….very few rv’s are plumbed according to code. Flex hose crimped onto pex fittings is quite common……
Very very true about flashlights. I don’t know why I have so many. One in almost every room of the house for emergency. I like those lil (2) aaa flashlights you can get at Walmart for $2. When power goes out, those lil flash lights lead me to the bigger flash lights lol. Great video btw. Add some plumbing tools along with tools from this video and you are set
I use my cellphone in the house, with an extra flashlight for emergency.
You organization is impressive
I have found an inexpensive flexible bore score to be very valuable too.
Should have been called 500 tools
Really like this video! Very helpful!
Great video thanks for the info
Running a 1963 vintage air stream, it seams like i carry my hole tool box. I really need to cut back on just how much is to much. Great info, thanks
To me, a star-wrench to loosen lug nuts on a flat tire and a torque wrench to properly tighten them are essential. With some random wood blocks available to ramp flat trailer tire off the ground, any able person can safely change a trailer or fifth wheel tire. You can spend hundreds of dollars or do it yourself. Many small towns, like Kanab, Utah have no one who can change a tire on the same day. I changed the flat tire and traveled to Las Vegas to complete the repai. It cost me nothing.
Fantastic content!!! New Sub - Thank You.
Flashlight addiction 😂
Could you please do something on changing out the lights in the ceiling of RV's? The ones in the RV you did this in looks like mine. I don't know if I have to change the whole things and do wiring or what. Where is the best place to buy them?
So you make sure to use Torx, and Phillips names, but you call a Robertson a "Square Bit", interesting. don't let that observation fool you. I love your videos.
As a home inspector I already have a flashlight addiction LOL
I don't have room to take my tool chest in my rv.
Good video. Thanks!!
Pretty good video- how to keep them in order is always a concern
Pro tip: DON'T keep this stuff in your trailer, keep it in your truck! That way you have it available anywhere you go. If you tow your RV, your truck will be with you.
Great channel.. Glad I found you. What kind of razor knife did you have in this video. Looks much better than mine.
You need to call the "drill what ot is ..
An impact driver. It could confuse someone going to get one...& you might say they need a drill to drill holes, but they can find drill bits with her drives.
Not sure what all that meant but I think I agree...."drill" is what I need, right?
Overall ...good stuff. Minor thought, although an impact is generally a more compact tool it does not have a clutch and because it's Impact a novice will tend to strip screws and such much more easily than you or I might. But certainly best choice for jacks etc. Multimeter = Good Choice. I use Torx Security set, can do both with one set. Didn't see your "5 Tools"... but great job. Thank you
Don't ask me how I know, but DO NOT use an impact tool for stabilizer jacks! It will shear the split pin and your jack will need to be strapped up after it is broken and hanging down limp - not good!
More tools that should be in every RV. Box of matches. Lighter fluid.
I wish you can anticipate any repair situation when on the road. I carry a tool kit in my RV. But when something breaks, it's usually a trip to the hardware store, not for a tool, but for parts. Duct tape, zip ties go a long way. Your tool kit should also include a credit card.
Good info. I need to update my Rv tool box some. The coach looks beautiful. Any idea what brand and model it was?
Good video RV Tech, may I suggest less motion with your camera or use of a pedestal and better editing. It would make it easier for newbies to follow your recommendations and your chain-of-thought. I know it takes time but some of your viewers ask very pertinent questions that are left unanswered - at least on this video. Thank you, Ciao, L
When using the multi-meter, what voltage reading are you looking for at the pedestal?
While its obvious your intentions are good, an impact wrench has no place for normal maintenance in an RV. A drill with a torque clutch is the way to go. That way you can use a low torque setting and prevent stripped fasteners in RV walls, floors, ceilings, appliances etc. As far as using an impact on stabilizers; most stabilizers are made with soft steel (not tempered) and an impact can gall the threads and ruin the stabilizer. Again, a drill is a better option. As far as diagnostics with a multimeter, most people aren't going to have the know how to use one nor will the average person try and diagnose some of the things you named such as appliances and control panels. IMO opinion the average RV'er is going to be better suited with common hand tools to do simple repairs and maintenance such as drivers, sockets, wrenches, a hammer, pliers etc.
I was hoping to find about FIVE important tools.....
What about a tire wedge &. Impact for flat tire Changing ?
What is the minimum AC volt at the campground pedestal I don’t want to see so it won’t mess up my air conditioner on my Rv
I think a fluke t5 is better meter…around $100 bucks. Just my opinion as a 30 year professional electrician
Can you tell me the two bits you said we need? I am handy so I didn’t quite catch what you said.
You need a better audio setup in the beginning it is really low quality.
Drill with a clutch setting is what you want; not an impact.
Tire inflator?!
So, is there a All-In-One tool kit that has these?
Is it safe to use a snake with pex?
If you need to use a multimeter, write those numbers in your notebook - date, time, system, measurement numbers.
what brand of motorhome was that you are in?
Thanks for video. I have most of these tools. Multi meter I just don't understand....any videos on this tool?
This question is more about 9th Grade Science... Units of electrical measurement.
Volts - electrical pressure
Amps - amount of electrical flow
Ohms - electrical resistance
Watts - electrical power
If it’s a class a or c or super c I’d throw in a clamptite tool and wire for it.
I was not counting but that seems more than 5, more like 15 or even 55 total.
I suppose counting is not important for RVing. 😂
Still gave it a like 😀👍
Kline multimeter , no thanks
Harbor Freight 👍
Just a note....... Thats alot more than 5 tools. More like 200 tools. I understand that its a hard list to narrow down, but jeeze... The title should be "Just get a Matco truck to follow you around"
Dude how about a simple tool to correctly align axels!
AXLES😂
Just some constructive comments: Obviously many more than 5 tools covered. Opinion only- With space considerations I'd just get a 3/4" drive drill/driver. More torque and more versatility. Flashlights? get one with as few features as you can. The new l.e.d. ones can do annoying things if the batteries get low. Meters: frankly I use the amp clamp feature rarely and could probably do without it, but you should mention that the a/c and d/c models cost more. -There are at least 2 other ways to find and detect parasitic drain with just the volts selection on the meter. These days there are some people out there that probably assume you carry that monster tool box in your rv....you should probably clear that up :). To be fair I quit watching about 2 thirds of the way though.
OK, so i just have to +1 the addiction to flashlights. I'll admit right away I have this problem. But for some reason, other tools I don't have this fixation.. why?! some sort of study needs to be done...
My RV has a ton of square drive fasteners, do you not see that in other brands? (Mine is Keystone 17’ model)
Square drive, also known as Robinson screws make up most of the fasteners in the RV industry. I have a podcast I’m starting soon and the name of it will actually be “square bits & sine waves”
5
vice grips
I’m confused! The title says five tools, and you talked about a whole bunch of stuff. I have no idea what the five tools are.
First thing I noticed is he is showing tools in a cabinet. Even large class A motor homes don’t have that kind of space.
This is my personal toolbox in the shop. I’m showcasing the most important of those tools
LOL.... "5 tools"? Should have been "Basic tools needed for RV life." Good info though.
15 minute vid for 5 tools
Yea, and ...
@@georgekatsinis5224 you are a tool
Just got a promotion to become a RV tech anyone got any tips or tricks for me ?
Email me, thatrvtech@gmail.com
We're hoping you know your stuff.
Way more than 5 tools
That was more than five tools. Can you give the list of 5 tools.