Vintage Crescent Socket Set Upgrade

[michael murder]

I inherited this Crescent socket set from my grandpa.

I decided to use it the other day and the selector busted clean in half. I suspect grandpa may have also used the ratchet as a hammer judging by the marks on it.

I searched around to find that this ratchet is considered rare (read expensive). And every time it's mentioned someone comments on how poorly it works. It is skippy and finicky maybe due to design.

This set has a lot of sentimental value, I'd like to find a replacement ratchet, or maybe use the guts or a rebuild kit from another ratchet to keep it in working order.

Looking from the drive end here are the approximate measurements.

I went through my ratchets and measured their guts, an SK wrench came close but nothing else would even remotely fit.

Does anyone know a ratchet with these measurements?

Thanks for your help!

 

[Dog Garage]

I would try and find a good welder, to tack weld it and restore it.

I have the 20pc LT320 set (at least it looks like a 3 on the sticker on the box) used it a lot in the 60's & 70's, now and then ever since. The set is still complete and yes this ratchet is/always was finicky but never failed to do the work (mine doesn't have a socket release button) and still works. The chrome is still good on the set, despite being/working in the rain and snow.

 

[michael murder]

I would try and find a good welder, to tack weld it and restore it.

That might be the best way to do it, thanks for the suggestion.

Those sets do seem to be pretty high quality and worth having around.

 

[bonneyman]

I've only seen that pawl design once before. Old and kinda rare. Personally I think it would work OK if you kept it clean and lightly lubed.

I have a bunch of old ratchets and ratchet parts lying around. If you want to send the handle and parts to me, I'll mix and match what I have and see if I can come up with a combo that'll work for you.
PM me if interested.

 

[michael murder]

Just received my ratchet back from Bonneyman.

He rebuilt it using some parts from other board members, and added a button head fastener to replace the old center rivet.

It works great, no more skips. He even cleaned and lubed it up!

I couldn't be happier with the ratchet. Thanks Bonneyman and thanks to the other members who helped him!

 

[BMack37]

Great job, that looks great! Nice to see an online community willing t help each other instead of puffing out their chests and throwing poo.

 

[bonneyman]

It was my pleasure. Thanks for the challenge!

 

[notlob]

Nicely done, B-man.

 

[Caddybill]

Stuff like this is why I like this forum. Good vibes.