Tool Talk

Wrench Forum => Wrench Forum => Topic started by: Northwoods on March 08, 2016, 05:32:02 PM

Title: Never pass up a PLVMB
Post by: Northwoods on March 08, 2016, 05:32:02 PM
Stopped by the resale shop on my way to get my teeth cleaned this AM and found two unusual (to me) PLVMBS.
First is a # 3324 electrical OE with the recessed panel mentioned in AA as being "pre pebble."  From 1945 only.
The other is a common looking tappet wrench #3435 in 11/16" ---3/4".  But has the dimensions stamped on the jaws, not the shank.  And it is marked   MADE (over) IN U.S.A.     with a date code 1B which I take to be 1941.  I don't see one just like it on AA.
Title: Re: Never pass up a PLVMB
Post by: EVILDR235 on March 10, 2016, 11:46:47 PM
You can never have enough Plvmb tools. I picked a rare one a few months ago. A 1/2 & 9/16 combo box end marked A.PLOMB It was made by Mr.Plomb after he left the Plvmb tool company and started another company. I also picked up a Plvmb bearing scraper and tool box at a garage sale.

EvilDr235
Title: Re: Never pass up a PLVMB
Post by: Northwoods on March 11, 2016, 09:27:15 AM
I looked through three big tubs of wrenches yesterday and came home with four good ones.
Plvmb 3026 open end in 1/2 by 9/16

Proto pebble 1220 combo in 5/8

Bridgeport std/metric open end (the flat version of their Hy-Bar) to nearly fill in my 6-piece set.  I need the big one yet.

Hand made S wrench in 7/16 by 1/2 stamped with the maker's (?) initials --RT-- on one side and the shop initials --MKT-- on the other.  Probably made by a railroad shop repairman to replace a lost or broken one.  It has been cut, pounded, and ground from flat stock.  A thing of beauty.  Sorry, no pix.
All four for $3.25.  What are these people thinking?

The Plvmb and the Proto were rusty and pitted--needed some TLC.  I gave them a good scrubbing, a light oil soaking, a light once over with a small brush, an overnight in the vinegar, another scrubbing, another oiling, and another brushing--followed by a secret trick.  Give the tool a good hard rubdown with a wad of aluminum foil to put a bit of a shine on it.
They both look at least decent by now.