Tool Talk

Wrench Forum => Wrench Forum => Topic started by: hosspapa on October 23, 2020, 07:16:44 PM

Title: Lowell Wrench Co No 22 -- Markings
Post by: hosspapa on October 23, 2020, 07:16:44 PM

I have a nice 1/2" drive Lowell Wrench No 22.  I believe it is not an early one given the use of allen bolts rather than straight slot screws to hold the cover.  What I'm curious about are the other markings on the wrench and what significance they might have?  Are they simply owner marks? Or something else?  Any info would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.

Standard Front Markings:  LOWELL WRENCH CO U.S.A. WORCESTER MASS. NO. 22
Additional Front Markings:  B-1
Additional Back Markings:  N inside a circle near the ratchet and a 1 near where base of the head.

(https://i.imgur.com/FhrAAx4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/YYD4msC.jpg)

Title: Re: Lowell Wrench Co No 22 -- Markings
Post by: AutoMechanic on December 30, 2020, 11:30:18 PM

The N and B-1 are probably date or production codes. That’s how they are on most of those old ones like that.

Title: Re: Lowell Wrench Co No 22 -- Markings
Post by: lptools on December 31, 2020, 04:48:46 AM

I'm curious about the knurled piece at the end of the handle. Does that move?

Title: Re: Lowell Wrench Co No 22 -- Markings
Post by: mvwcnews on January 05, 2021, 08:17:37 PM

Quote from: lptools on December 31, 2020, 04:48:46 AM

I'm curious about the knurled piece at the end of the handle. Does that move?

Probably the "reverse" control for the ratchet as in [ http://www.datamp.org/patents/displayPatent.php?number=2003346&typeCode=0 ] patent # 2,003,468.  Don't know if other manufacturers beside LOWELL had a ratchet with direction control on the end of the handle.