Plomb WF-21-S

[RubiconJK]

I recently found a nice Plomb WF-21-S ratchet and am curious what specific special purpose the military had for this tool. Does anyone have any insight to how this ratchet was used? Thanks.

 

[chopper1]

Todd?

 

[twertsy]

Options vary. Could be a bell systems cable splicer handle, some military "crank" application such as landing gear (although those are larger) or for turning any other gearing with a square plug attached.

 

[RubiconJK]

Thanks for the reply. I've also seen the Bell System (non S) versions. I would guess this one wouldn't be a Bell System tool, but am looking forward to learning more about it! Thanks again.

 

[3baygarage]

That is a neat one. Have not seen any info about it but it does resemble the Bell tool.

 

[RubiconJK]

Thank you 3baygarage. I'll try to post a couple more pics of a side by side comparison of my new WF-21-S and my Bell System equipped WF-21 example. While they are similar, all the Bell System examples I've seen have this smaller aluminum knob rather than the larger wooden knob on the 21-S. The 21-S probably did serve some similar purpose and hope to find out what that might have been! Thanks again for the feedback.

 

[3baygarage]

I have seen different examples of Plombs with a wood knob. I think the figure 8 face plate style.

Recently an old 3/8" Williams with a wood knob as well.