Wrench Identification and Socket Question

[cgds92]

I've had this double box end for years, but have no idea who made it, or approximate year of manufacture. Hoping that someone on here knows the answer.

Also a question about this Proto Los Angeles Socket...It looks like it was made for a slide bar, and/or ½" drive. What was the purpose of have the ability to use a slide bar? Were breaker bars something that came along more recently than this socket?

Thanks,
Chad

 

[woody 73]

Ask and you shall receive.

Bridgeport Hardware Manufacturing co made your wrench.

Guessing that in a pinch a guy could grab a screwdriver and use it for more leverage, mind you just a guess.

 

[twertsy]

Yes, you can use a slide bar. Purpose? Torque.

 

[cgds92]

Thanks for the Manufacturer ID.

Nice little write up here: https://home.comcast.net/~alloy-artifacts/bridgeport-hardware-mfg.html

Thanks,
Chad

 

[KnurledNut]

As woody73 stated, it is a Bridgeport Hardware Mfg.
The patent number on the wrench was filed in 1935.
The nickel-moly alloy was somewhat unusual at that time.

The socket hole would be used with a tommy bar, as mentioned.

 

[cgds92]

As woody73 stated, it is a Bridgeport Hardware Mfg.
The patent number on the wrench was filed in 1935.
The nickel-moly alloy was somewhat unusual at that time.

The socket hole would be used with a tommy bar, as mentioned.

Is there a reason to use a tommy bar, vs using a breaker bar? More even application of torque, or to prevent tilting off the center line of the nut/bolt being worked on?

 

[woody 73]

cgds92 while laying under a rusty Midwest car a person would grab anything at hand to add more torque to get the item removed, tommy bar, screwdriver, breaker bar etc. all it had to do was fit inside the hole of the socket or ratchet handle and be long enough for more leverage to work and make your job easier.

If your are interested and I hope you are I just did a story a few days ago and the company that made the tool was the Bridgeport Co.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=299557

I never stop learning at least until the day they put me in the Earth, hope you like the story.