Re: [A/S] Fuse Puller, extra fuses, other essentials

["Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxx>]

Recently a thread has run regarding what power cords and water hoses to
carry, along with necessary accessories.

For what it's worth, I have include some other items that I believe are
handy to have along, that don't weigh much or take up much room.

I think it is a good idea to carry an extra set of fuses and a few spare
essential light bulbs for both the trailer and the tow vehicle. Especially
any fuses related to the braking system, brake lights, and brake controller.
(particularly tail, brake and backup light bulbs, and the 12 Volt cabin
light bulbs) Also a fuse puller. A volt/ohm meter (or multimeter) is also
an excellent tool to carry if you know how to use one.

A major wiring short may not be repairable in the field, but bulbs and fuses
do blow, and some are hard to find, especially in remote areas, and holliday
weekends, and places where one is not familiar with the various merchants
etc.

One should go through the respective owner's manuals and make a list of
those fuses and bulbs that might be useful AND a description of what they
are for. Thus, besides a shopping list, the list will save a lot of time
searching for the right part when the need arises.

Another valuable and useful tool to carry is a good tire presure gage.
Since most trucks and trailer tires require air pressures in the 50 or more
PSI range, typical automobile (lower pressure) tire gages aren't useable.

I personally like the new electronic variety, especially the Accutire
(highly rated by Consumer Reports - 0 to 99.5 PSI range). The lit LED
digital readout is very easy to read, and they are accurate to 1/2 Lb. One
model is on the large side but includes a built in flash light. Costco
sells them as does Sam's (I think) and Sears has periodically had the non
flashlight version on sale for around $14.00.