Saw this at the Brooks steam up swap last weekend. Price was too obscene to mention.





Greyson

I have one I bought at the Habitat Restore about 6 months ago. It is in 7/8 female drive. Mine has all the information stamped on the head with a round knurled handle. Mine is marked,

LOWELL WRENCH CO.

WORCESTER MASS.

PATD-NOS- 1.177764-12003346     The Patd. numbers are hard to read due to light stampings on metal.

NO 3-1/2

I was all painted black at one time. When found it was locked up. I opened it up and cleaned out a bunch of crud and it turns over fine now.

What was the original use for a ratchet like this ? When I wanted to buy it, I took it up to the counter and showed the salesman / saleswoman it would not turn. I paid $1.00 for it believe it or not. I thought about re-selling it, but shipping would be a deal killer due to it's size and weight. 20-1/8 inches long and about 5 or 6 pounds. I wish the ratchet was in one inch male drive because I have been finding some sockets in that size.

Is the Steam up show going to have another swap meet this weekend ?

EvilDr235

gtermini, you should go to the flea market at the Eagles lodge on Lombard street in Portland. The wife and I went this past Sunday the only day they have it. I must have had twenty pounds of tools I bought. Good prices and good selections. It was hot out and people were willing to deal. Sellers start setting up outside when it's still dark out. The building opens at 8 am I think. but not many sellers in there. I have never been disappointed going there.

EvilDr235

Thanks for the tip on the Eagles swap.

I think the swap at Brooks goes both weekends. I'm hymming and hawwing about going back for a big portapower cylinder, but can't really justify the purchase right now. It was big money and I think it'll be there.

It looks like Lowell is still in business. http://lowellcorp.com/ratchet-arms/
They appear to be industrial use ratchets for permanent installation on things where you'd need the action. I'd think something like a jackscrew or landing gear.

Greyson

Ironworker and bridge builders are big users. Aunt Phil is knowledgeable on big tools. I have a J.H Williams SUPERWRENCH ratchet that is abou 30 inches long. Very similar except that each nut size had the ratchet gear built in. I posted it a few years ago.

There is a Lowell #57 on eBay with a 3 inch socket for a mere $257.20 plus $34.70 shipping.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/HUGE-Lowell-No-57-Ratchet-50-inches-long-With-3-inch-socket/323125047387?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649