. . . I've always preferred the feel of pear head ratchets (mostly for the fact that you can change directions with one hand), but I've got to admit, that S-K has a smoother action than my SO SL710, and my raised panel C-man can't even compare to it. It would be interesting to know it's exact age.
I'm not sure if you are talking about the Snap-On or the Craftsman. I think many here on GJ can help you with the Snap-on ratchet's age.
If you are referring to the Craftsman, check this link out:
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=84807
Steve
That 1/4" rat DOES look miniscule!
Rebelram, do me a favor. Take a pic of that supersmall 1/4" S-K next to a tape measure. I'd like to compare it to some of the 1/4"ers I have.
how many teeth does a 45170 have?
AA believes it to be from 1934-1939, but I think it would have to fall from the later 1930s to 1941 or possibly even later.
Here's the reason: this is my 45170:
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This style is obviously earlier than than rebelram's, but the patent number is the same. If AA is correct in the 1934-1939 range, when was this earlier style made?! It can't have been before 1934 - as that is when the patent was issued - and one wouldn't think they would have been made simultaneously with the same model number.
I think mine dates 1934-1938, and the OP's from 1939-1941 or later. One might reasonably assume that once the "new" patent - 2232477 - was issued, that any subsequent 45170's would bear this number, but WWII may have played a part. I say this because the OP's ratchet appears in the photo to be cadmium-plated (although it may be worn chrome). If so, it might suggest wartime production due to chromium shortages.
Where are y'all getting the rebuild kits? From this thread, it appears mine is a 60s era S-K Wayne 45170, and that most feel like they are worth rebuilding. I guess I'm missing a spring(?) that goes between the pawl assembly (in the glove fingers) and the internal selector (right of the pawl), as it won't catch and ratchet. Probably these terms are not correct.
I read all of this old thread..and maybe it's late..and im tired..but didnt see where the OP got an answer.. I'm curious too, as i have a few SK ratchets with the Diamond logo on them. I guess it was before the SK-Wayne era..but anybody know what years the Diamond logo was used..?
I suggest that you check this thread in the vintage tool discussion.
https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=278177
There is a lot of dating information to be found there. Here is a picture of my best dark finish S-K wartime 1/4” drive set along with other wartime sets made during the metal restrictions. Nothing could be chrome plated. They resumed chrome plating after the war.
-Don