Blue Point YA-116 "Yankee" Screwdriver Question

[redware]

I've just found my grandfather's old Blue Point YA-116 Yankee screwdriver. It has a great action, is very smooth, and looks practically new. I think it was relegated to the back of the junk drawer because it has no bits with it.

What diameter bits does this thing take? Does anyone who has one know? Do the bits have their own part numbers to help me search?

With thanks

 

[4xdog]

My old Yankee gets used often. I was lucky (or smart) enough to buy a set of bits before Stanley stopped supplying them fifteen years or so ago.

They're still available from at least one source, but kinda pricey...
https://www.garrettwade.com/garrett-wade-yankee-push-drill-gp.html
https://www.garrettwade.com/push-drill-replacement-bits.html

 

[rlitman]

That's a push drill. It isn't reversible, and those are drill bits and not screwdriver bits.

I've actually made a few screwdriver bits to fit mine by starting with long 1/4" hex shank bits and grinding them. It's not that hard if you start with bits that have a round shaft.

 

[4xdog]

Ah, you’re right! I stopped thinking after I read “Yankee”.

I have an old slotted screwdriver bit that fits in my Stanley. Dunno where I got that one, though.

 

[bmwrd0]

I have never seen a Blue Point Yankee, but in general, there are three size bits, they used to sell them at Lee Valley, but I don't think they do anymore. There are a ton of them around if you start looking, but avoid eBay, as people want a ton for them on there. Just start looking and you will start to see them.

 

[spike99250]

Lee Valley makes an adaptor for the Yankee screwdrivers that takes todays standard insert bits.

 

[neophyte]

If you can measure the hole in the end, you can look up the bit size you need. Original bits, and reproductions/compatible bits are still available.
To measure the bore, if you have a decent set of fractional drill bits, you can stick the shank into the end to see what size the opening is. I believe Stanley/Yankee used a fractional inch measurement for the bits.
The other method might be to measure the length of the open driver, and compare it to the three Stanley sizes to figure out the bit size.
Last I checked, Robert Schroeder of Germany, a tool maker who has been manufacturing spiral and ratchet screwdrivers, for decades, had purchased the Yankee trademark, and they still manufacture at least two of the bit sizes. There are also adapters so you can use hex bits.

 

[Roberts210]

The original cordless drill. I've got one in the toolbox of my truck. Comes in handy from time to time.