Walden Socket Set w/ Hex Key

[Mick56]

I picked up this Stevens Walden socket set the other day, and on the contents, it lists a 5/16 hex key. The hex key is missing, but what was it for? There is nothing in the set that needs one, that I can see.

 

[Private Lugnutz]

You and your question are in good company, Mick. GJ member and Walden collector four.cycle has brought this oddball mystery up before. It's a true headscratcher.

 

[Oldtuleguy]

Nothing in here

 

[HeelSpur]

Maybe the sketches of lawn mowers and motor boats might be a clue.

 

[Mick56]

The 3" extension with connector is also odd.

 

[Mick56]

From sold items on eBay, here is a pic of the contents of a similar set. In this set it is called a drain key plug. What uses a 5/16 hex on a drain?

 

[Oldtuleguy]

Maybe some small engines? Have not seen that on any cars

 

[Private Lugnutz]

...it is called a drain key plug.

Good sleuthing. I will have to let 4.c know.

 

[d42jeep]

Maybe it’s for changing the lower end oil on some early outboards.
-Don

 

[bonneyman]

Maybe it’s for changing the lower end oil on some early outboards.
-Don

I've got a friend who's a boat mechanic. I can run it by him.

 

[Oldtuleguy]

I have to say I am intriged be the whole thing. I saw mick put it up for sale ebay so I grabbed it for closer examination.

 

[d42jeep]

I found one in the wild this morning. My Allen wrench is missing. What a disappointment.
-Don

 

[d42jeep]

In a truly odd coincidence, I found another partial set at the Tahoe flea this morning.
-Don

 

[Oldtuleguy]

They come in waves

 

[RubiconJK]

Maybe it’s for changing the lower end oil on some early outboards.
-Don

Don, I think you are on to something there. Seems like I remember lower unit drain and vent plugs like that.

 

[Szilagyi]

I don't remember the size but the differential fill plug on my truck has an Allen head. I could see different stuff using that enough to just throw it in there, it couldn't have cost them too much.

 

[d42jeep]

I used the best pieces of the two sets I found and added a 5/16 hex key just to be thorough. I believe that it is now complete.
-Don