Here We Go Again

[Hookdude]

Strick,

Over the years my greasy/oily/clumsy hands have dropped countless items in numerous places. Since the item is usually either needed (tool / part) or will reek havoc if left in place (gearbox / carb), I've used assorted methods of retrieval.
For your 1/4" ratchet I'd suggest a magnet attached to a flexible hose. 1/4"-3/8" fuel line should work well. But you could also use vacuum line or the small air line used for aquariums. A "fish tape" or length of mechanic's wire could also do it if the bends/angles aren't too severe.

Since you're dealing with fiberglass and don't have any (I think) ferrous material to "grab" the magnet, use the strongest one you can find that will fit in the access areas.

Your endoscope should make it easy to see where the magnet is as you advance it. Twisting the hose while pushing should get you around any bends and cause the magnet to "sweep" when you get near the ratchet.


This may take a couple attempts, but should do the trick. Hope this works for you.
(A quarter inch ratchet may not do much damge, but it would drive me nuts bouncing around!)

The boat's looking awesome!!!!!!!!
I hope to use some of your ideas on my upcoming project.

Cheers,
Bob