Fixing up finds: a few questions

[norry]

I've picked up a few different random 'finds' lately, and some had a few not-quite-working tools mixed in. Any hints on how to get these tools working again?

First picture is a Snap-on 3/4 drive 1.5" impact socket. I tried to put it on my 3/4 drive ratchet, but to my surprise it wouldn't fit. On closer inspection the drive area is slightly deformed, as shown. Can I file it down? ...or is the metal too strong?

Second picture is a Williams 2 3/8" non-impact, also 3/4 drive, and with a similar problem.

Third picture is a Snap-on 3/4 breaker bar. Really cool but rusty and the chrome is flaking off. What's the best thing to do about that? In the past I've used the buffer, but wouldn't that knock the rest of the chrome off? Should I use Evaporust or something like that?

Fourth picture is a Vise-grip welding pliers. Same question, minus the chrome.

Fifth picture is a Snap-on 3/8 drive extension. The little ball that holds the socket seems stuck in the 'down' position and can't be freed by pushing on it from behind. Any words of wisdom for this? What causes it to do that, anyway?

Thanks in advance!!

 

[Hoot]

Just my opinion.....

I would try filing the drive end of the sockets. With a little care, you should be able to remove enough metal for them to fit. I can't imagine that the deformed areas extend that far into the interior of the socket.

For the rusted stuff, I'd use Evaporust, and then buff it up with a little NeverDull chrome polish.

For the stuck ball in the extension, try spraying some brake cleaner in the opposite end (watch your eyes!), pushing in on the ball a little bit from both ends, and repeat. There may be some crud lodged in the hole that is locking the ball in place.

I'm sure there will be some better ideas and recommendations forthcoming though.....

 

[nate379]

Either that or the spring is broken on the extension.

If my tools start getting real ugly with rust, I end up painting them. I had a work toolbox come back from Florida after being there a couple months and I swear the guys threw it in the ocean when they arrived and pulled it out when they left!
I was to the point of chucking it all because I have to have ZERO rust on everything or the world stops rotating (yes LAME, but I don't make the rules). I saved everything with a couple cans of black rattle can.

Ok the black isn't as pretty as chrome, but when they get all pitted up it's not going to be able to be polished out. The tool still works fine and that's what count anyhow.

 

[norry]

Tried filing down the socket today but I think I'm going to have to get out the Dremel for that - it's not soft enough for me to make much of an impact on it with a file.

Will look for some Evaporust soon - I'm the same way about my tools, Nate, I hate to see rust on any of them!

 

[rsanter]

on the socket end drives....file to fit

in the rusted tools...use a wire brush/wire wheel or evaporust
the vise grip I would just wire wheel the heck out of it and put it to use, the snap on breaker bar I would put a little more effort to

wouldnt the ball being bad being a warrantable item??

bob