Proto built ratchet for wheeler rex????

[Project 2501]

Just picked up this sweet copper shut off tool and noticed the ratchet looked awfully familiar.
What do you think? Did wheeler rex contract proto for these?

 

[twertsy]

Certainly looks Proto made to me.

 

[Provincial]

Is there a square drive plug to adapt the socket, or is that built into the socket?

Does the socket have makers marks?

Is there something missing that goes in the recess to the left of the big clamp?

What does it do and how does it work? I know it clamps onto the pipe and looks like it swages it.

 

[Project 2501]

Is there a square drive plug to adapt the socket, or is that built into the socket?

Does the socket have makers marks?

Is there something missing that goes in the recess to the left of the big clamp?

What does it do and how does it work? I know it clamps onto the pipe and looks like it swages it.

Socket does not have markings .
The set is complete but I also thought there was s missing piece I googled it and sure enough, this is how the set comes. I'm not sure what the square drive on the ratchet is for as of yet.
The tool is for emergency shut off of copper pipe from 3/4 inch to 1 inch by crimping the line closed. Its basically a vise with jaws that taper to an edge that you ratchet shut.

 

[3baygarage]

Some Wheeler Rex ratchets are imported clones of Proto. I have no proof if Proto ever mfd them.

The unmarked chrome plate could indicate an import, since Proto’s later ratchets have a black plate.

This one from ebay is clearly marked Taiwan.