Twelve Days of Christmas RV Tools – Fifth day: magnetizer/demagnetizer

One of the most popular “Cool Tools” in my seminars is the magnetizer/demagnetizer, a small block that allows you to magnetize or demagnetize a screwdriver or just about any metal tool you have that will fit through the slots. You can find it on Amazon here for less than $4!

Uses for the magnetizer/demagnetizer

There are times I need a magnetic screwdriver to hold a screw in a tight or far-away space; however, I don’t want it clinging to other metal objects in my toolbox. I also find a full-time magnetic tip tends to gravitate to metal objects or the side of the component, which makes it difficult to get the tip or the screw to the desired place. And if there are any metal shavings in the toolbox or around the area I’m working on, a magnetic tip becomes a metal “fur baby”!

To magnetize the metal, run it through the magnetizer slot slowly back and forth about 2-3 times. I have been told it actually realigns the molecules of the metal. However, I was never that good at science so I’ll just call it magic.

To demagnetize it, run it through the demagnetizer slot, passing the metal along each of the steps. It will end up at the top and farthest step away from the magnets inside and, presto, it’s a plain tip.

Tools I’ve used the magnetizer/demagnetizer on

There are many tools I have used the magnetizer/demagnetizer on such as screwdrivers, cordless drill tips, needle nose pliers, and even a coat hanger to fish out a screw that fell down a furnace vent. Here is a bonus tip: Use a metal coat hanger—the plastic ones do not work!🤣

Again, this really cool, handy and inexpensive tool is available on Amazon.

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Twelve Days of Christmas RV Tools

• First day: anemometer
• Second day: infrared temperature sensor
• Third day: water heater flush wand
• Fourth day: Kill A Watt electricity usage monitor

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

• What tools should be in my RV’s toolbox?
• “Magnetizer” should be in every RVer’s toolbox (with video)
• What should I know about electrical extension cords for my RV?
• Is there a recommended emergency plumbing kit for an RV?

DAVE HAS ANSWERED MORE THAN 1,000 readers’ maintenance and repair questions. Read a directory here. There is so much to learn!

Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and the author of the “RV Handbook.”

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