NavPod tool

[hwd]

Can a Booth wrench with 5/32" security tip be used on NavPod security screws in lieu of the expensive NavPod tool?

[Breakin Away]

I can't answer your question, but I will tell you that I am in the process of replacing all my security screws with normal Phillips head. I'm sick of using that darned tool, and with 16 year old electronics, there's nothing in there that anyone would steal. I've had some issues recently for which I really like being able to use an electric screwdriver to get in there.

If you can borrow a tool to get in there once, I'd recommend swapping out your screws.

[Stu Jackson]

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
.....I am in the process of replacing all my security screws with normal Phillips head. I'm sick of using that darned tool, and with 16 year old electronics, there's nothing in there that anyone would steal. I've had some issues recently for which I really like being able to use an electric screwdriver to get in there.

If you can borrow a tool to get in there once, I'd recommend swapping out your screws.

Superb idea. 

[Noah]

I've always assumed that any "serious" thief targeting marine electronics (that were worth stealing) would carry his own $25 Navpod screwdriver.

[DaveBMusik]

I believe mine was just a simple torx drive

[Noah]

 Not the same as Torx head.

[tgsail1]

Security set from HFT has a bit that works fine. The set was $7 on sale. I totally agree about the uselessness of the security screws.

[Mike and Joanne Stimmler]

I'm assuming the tool you're talking about looks like an allen wrench with a hollow center. Does that sound right? When I bought my nav pod it came with the allen wrench type tool but I think it also came with a straight one that you could put in a drill chuck. I also was able to fine a tool in my box that worked with a screw driver type handle. It is a tool that I used when I worked for Bell Telephone and is made by Stanley and has a KS-19192 designation number on it which is a bell tell designation so I don't know if that will come up on the net or not. Hope that helps. You could try Harbor Freight of Sears.
Mike

[hwd]

Thanks everyone for your responses.  I've subsequently found that the Booth wrench with 5/32 inch security tip (5/32" allen wrench with hollow center) works perfectly on the NavPod screws.  I purchased my wrench from from Grainger Industrial Supply for $7 , which is 3x cheaper than the NavPod tool.

[KWKloeber]

Just an FYI for those who need one, Horror Fright has a 100-pc kit that contains the hollow hex bits
https://www.harborfreight.com/100-pc-security-bit-set-with-case-68457.html
8.99 w/ -20% coupon = 7.19,  or if you're lucky to get one -25% for 6.74.

-k