Tool Talk
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: OilyRascal on July 30, 2012, 05:53:15 PM
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Thorsen 77JC 3/8" drive ratchets - all unique in their own way.
1) marked "-7 Thorsen USA 77JC"
2) marked "Thorsen 77JC MFD USA", with MFD over USA
3) marked "-6 Thorsen USA 77JC"
4) marked "Thorsen 77JC MFG USA" on the selector switch not the shank
5) marked "Thorsen 77JC MFG USA", with MFD over USA - but with differences in the selector from #2
6) marked "-6 Thorsen USA 77JC" - but with differences in the selector switch from #3
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4005.jpg)
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Thorsen 3/8" drive ratchets in 77J form
1) marked "Thorsen USA 77J"
2) marked "Thorsen MFD. USA. 77J5", with MFD. over USA.
3) marked "Thorsen MFD USA 77J4", with MFD over USA
4) marked "Thorsen MFD USA 77J", with MFD over USA
5) marked "Thorsen 77J-2"
6) marked "Thorsen 77J-3"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4004.jpg)
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Thorsen 1/2" drive ratchets
1) marked "Thorsen 77NR MFD. USA.", with MFD over USA
2) marked "Thorsen USA 77C Pat. Pend." - with markings on the selector switch
3) marked "Action MFD USA 77A" with MFD over USA and markings on the shank versus selector switch
4) marked "-Thorsen -77-MFD USA" with MFD over USA
5) marked "Thorsen 77 MFD USA" with MFD over USA
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4006.jpg)
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Thorsen 1/4" drive ratchets:
1) marked "Thorsen 77MC MFD USA" with MFD over USA - markings on the top side, or selector switch side of shank
2) marked "Thorsen 77MC USA" on the drive side of shank
3) marked "Thorsen 77MC MFD USA" with MFD over USA - but different from #1 in selector switch AND length
4) marked "Thorsen 77M"
5) marked "Thorsen 77M", but different from #4 in length
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4007.jpg)
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I have two Thorsen rats. A 3/8" I paid a $1 for in 1982, and a 1/4" that papaw gave me. They are in my personal truck tool box. I've heard they are the AK-47's of the ratchet world, and I believe it!
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ratchets marked with 77JA
1) marked "Thorsen 77JA" - 9/16" 12-point drive
2) marked "Action 77JA MFD USA" - with MFD over USA
3) marked "Action 77JA MFD USA" - with MFD over USA - but different from #1 in script
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4008.jpg)
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Break-overs:
1) 1/2" drive - 16" length - marked "Thorsen 16"
2) 1/2" drive - 10" length - marked "Thorsen 15 MFD USA" with MFD over USA
3) 3/8" drive - 7.5" length - marked "Thorsen USA 12J"
4) 3/8" drive - 7.5" length - marked "Thorsen 12J"
5) 3/8" drive - 7.5" length - marked "Thorsen 12J MFD USA" with MFD over USA
6) 1/4" drive - 5.75" length - marked "Thorsen 18M"
7) 1/4" drive - 5.50" length - marked "Thorsen 18M", but with difference from #6 in script, length, and knurling
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4009.jpg)
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Sets in boxes:
1) Plastic case marked "Action", but with Thorsen marked tools with the exception of the extension (marked Action). A 3/8" drive set in metric.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4016.jpg)
2) Plastic case marked "Action", but with Thorsen marked tools with the exception of the extension (marked Action). A 3/8" drive set in SAE
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4015.jpg)
3) Thorsen Set No. 1438 - 3/8" AND 1/4" drive set in metal box
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4014.jpg)
4) Thorsen Set No. 3810 - 3/8" drive set in metal box
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4013.jpg)
5) Thorsen unknown set no. 1/4" drive set - likely incomplete/inaccurate for box.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4012.jpg)
6) Thorsen Set No. 3809DP 3/8" drive deep socket set in metal box
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4011.jpg)
7) Thorsen unknown set number - 3/8" drive deep socket set in metal box - likely original sockets to set
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4010.jpg)
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Great collection O.R.
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3/8" and 1/4" drive extensions
1) 3/8" drive 10" long - marked "Thorsen 57J"
2) 3/8" drive 10.5" long - marked "Thorsen 57J MFD USA" with MFD over USA
3) 3/8" drive 10" long - marked "Thorsen 57J", difference in square drive socket end from #1
4) 3/8" drive 4.75 long - marked "=Action MFD USA 57JA=" with "MFD USA" under "Action"
5) 3/8" drive 5" long - marked "Tatools" 51153
6) 3/8" drive 4.75 long - marked "=Action MFD USA 57JA=" with "MFD USA" under "Action"
7) 3/8" drive 5" long - marked "=Thorsen MFD. USA. 53J=" with "MFD. USA." under "Thorsen"
8) 3/8" drive 4-7/8" long - marked "Thorsen 53J MFD USA" with MFD over USA
9) disregard in photo - not thorsen
10) 3/8" drive 2.5" long - marked "=Thorsen MFD USA 51J=" with "Thorsen" over "MFD USA"
11) 3/8" drive 2.5" long - marked "Thorsen 51J"
12) 1/4" drive 5-7/8" long - marked "Thorsen 53M"
13) 1/4" drive 1-7/8" long - marked "Thorsen 50M"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4017.jpg)
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1/2" drive extensions:
1) 10" long marked "Thorsen 57"
2) 10" long marked "Thorsen 57"
3) 9-7/8" long marked "=Thorsen MFD. USA. 57=" with "Thorsen" over "MFD. USA."
4) 10" long marked "Thorsen 57"
5) 10-1/4" long marked "Thorsen 57"
6) 10" long marked "Thorsen 57"
7) 2-1/4" long marked "=Thorsen MFD. USA. 51=" with "Thorsen" over "MFD. USA."
8) 2-3/8" long marked "=Thorsen MFD. USA. 51=" with "Thorsen" over "MFD. USA."
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4018.jpg)
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Drivers:
1) 8-3/4" long slotted marked "Thorsen 066 USA"
2) 9" long slotted marked "Thorsen 066 USA"
3) 7-3/8" long phillips marked "Thorsen 024P USA"
4) 6" long phillips with markings gone
5) 6" long phillips with markings "Thorsen 013P USA"
6) 3" long slotted with markings "Thorsen 081"
7) 3-/14" long phillips with markings "Thorsen 021P"
8) 6" long 1/4" drive driver marked "Thorsen 80M USA"
9) 5-3/4" long 1/4" drive marked "Thorsen 80M MFD USA" with MFD over USA
10) 6" long 1/4" drive marked "Action 80MA MFD. USA." - NOT "mfd" over "usa" as normal with Thorsen
11) 5-3/4" long 1/4" drive marked "tatools 5018U"
12) 5-3/4" long 1/4" drive marked "Thorsen MFD USA 80M" with MFD over USA"
5) 6" long ICE PICK with markings "Thorsen 013P USA" - it is a ground down phillips
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4019.jpg)
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Have you been able to decipher the meaning of any of it? The -2 or -3 for example? And, what's the deal with the 9/16 one? Does the socket come off of it?
I have not made anything of the meaning. The 9/16" is a fixed socket.
Great collection O.R.
Thanks! Many of the tools have come from members of this forum. Believe it or not, I have a record of where each came from - so that when they're placed on the board the contributor may be noted.
Wow, your collection is coming along very nicely. I was just thinking about all the Indestro variations in another thread. It may be a toss up as to whether Thorsen has more. They were pretty sure about that 77 though. Almost everything needs a 77 in it :) !!
Thanks, Kit! As you know many of these fine tools came via you. Yes, you now have me thinking on those Indestro ratchets. I will venture a guess there is more to the "77" than just it's common use. Why is this company so dang hard to research?
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Great collection, thanks for sharing!
Have a JCPenney 1/2" drive set, I think it is Thorsen sourced.
Will dig it out, would be fun to verify.
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Universal swivel extensions, from the top:
1) 3/8" drive marked "=Thorsen MFD. USA. 33=" with "Thorsen" over "MFD. USA."
2) 3/8" drive marked "Thorsen 33J"
3) 3/8" drive marked "Thorsen 33J" with difference in script from #2
4) 1/2" drive marked "Thorsen 33"
5) 1/2" drive marked "Thorsen MFD. USA 33" with "Thorsen" over "MFD. USA."
6) 1/2" drive marked "=Thorsen MFD USA. 33=" with "Thorsen" over MFD. USA.
7) 1/2" drive marked "Action MFD USA 33A" with "Action" over "MFD USA"
8) 1/2" drive marked "Thorsen 33"
9) 1/2" drive marked "Thorsen 33 MFD USA" with MFD over USA
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4020.jpg)
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The JCPenney set I discovered is a 3/8" drive metric set.
All of the sockets begin and end with the familiar Thorsen "=".
The ratchet that came with the box on the upper left looks to be a Thorsen ratchet head design, but the ratchet is blank except for Japan stamped on the back side.
The S-K sourced JCPenney ratchet and wobble in the upper right I included for comparison. Both ratchets have black reversing levers.
The extensions I added to the set, but also have "=" before and after their markings.
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You have an awesome collection, I have also admired your tool boards in another thread. I have not run across any avid Thorsen collectors so would like to get your opinion. I picked up a nice 3/4" drive Thorsen set a few weeks ago, and am puzzled by the socket marks. They have the hot forged logo stamped in the socket, the only ones I have ever seen (which is very few) have been 3/4" drive. Have you seen any other sizes? Picture to show example. Thanks
(http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/5920/dscn1529a.jpg)
By stormking3 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/stormking3) at 2012-07-20
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Great collection of thorsen stuff you have there........Looks good :)
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Mr. Rascal , do you use these tools as every day working tools. If so you do take good care of them nice set bob w.
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I picked up a nice 3/4" drive Thorsen set a few weeks ago, and am puzzled by the socket marks. They have the hot forged logo stamped in the socket, the only ones I have ever seen (which is very few) have been 3/4" drive. Have you seen any other sizes? Picture to show example. Thanks
(http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/5920/dscn1529a.jpg)
By stormking3 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/stormking3) at 2012-07-20
I've looked through every Thorsen socket I have. None have this "Hot Forged" marking on the tool itself. For example, the 528 - 7/8" - 1/2" drive - 12 point - I have 32 of them - 12 unique variations - none with the marking you show.
Please let me know should you ever be interested in parting with that 3/4" drive set. It is certainly a beauty, and one I'd love to put beside the others.
Mr. Rascal , do you use these tools as every day working tools. If so you do take good care of them nice set bob w.
The only occasions where I've used them is when I've traveled needing tools. I do plan to change that once I'm a little more near complete.
Great collection of thorsen stuff you have there........Looks good :)
Thanks, Nola!
The JCPenney set I discovered is a 3/8" drive metric set.
All of the sockets begin and end with the familiar Thorsen "=".
The ratchet that came with the box on the upper left looks to be a Thorsen ratchet head design, but the ratchet is blank except for Japan stamped on the back side.
The S-K sourced JCPenney ratchet and wobble in the upper right I included for comparison. Both ratchets have black reversing levers.
The extensions I added to the set, but also have "=" before and after their markings.
They certainly have a lot in common - not just the script.
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SAE 1/2", 3/8", and 1/4" drive sockets (aligned horizontally on series, and vertically on size):
Top row is 6xx series (1/2" drive, deep, 12 point) - from left to right
632, 630, 626, 624, 620, 616
Second row is 5xx series (1/2" drive, shallow, 12 point) - from left to right
540, 538, 534, 532, 530, 528, 526, 524, 522, 521, 520, 519, 518, 516, 514, 512
Third row is 6xxJ series (3/8" drive, deep, 12 point) THEN 6xxJX series (3/8" drive, deep, 6 point)- from left to right
626J, 624J, 620J, 618J, 616J, 614JX, 612JX
Forth row is 6xxJR series (3/8" drive, deep, spark plug) - from left to right
626JR, 620JR
Fifth row is 3xx series (3/8" drive, shallow, 12 point) - from left to right
328, 326, 324, 322, 320, 318, 316, 314
Sixth row is 3xxX series (3/8" drive, shallow, 6 point) - from left to right
316X, 314X, 312X
Seventh row is xxM series (1/4" drive, shallow, 12 point) - from left to right
16M, 12M, 11M, 10M, 9M, 8M, 7M, 6M
Eight row is xxMS series (1/4" drive, shallow, 8 point) - from left to right
12MS, 11MS, 8MS
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4025.jpg)
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3/8" drive universal swivel sockets
Top row 4xxJ series - 3/8" drive - 12 point (from left to right)
428J - 7/8"
424J - 3/4"
422J - 11/16"
420J - 5/8"
418J - 9/16"
416J - 1/2"
412J - 3/8"
bottom row 4xxJX series - 3/8" drive - 6 point (from left to right)
416JX - 1/2"
414JX - 7/16"
412JX - 3/8"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138380_.jpg)
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Pliers:
1) 6" Slip-joint pliers marked "Thorsen SJ-6" - with "U42" cast into the shank
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138440_.jpg)
2) 8" Slip-joint pliers marked "Thorsen SJ-8" - with "K09" cast into the shank
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138441_.jpg)
3) 8" Slip-Joint pliers marked "Thorsen Allied SJ8AL" / "Drop Forged Japan"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138443_.jpg)
4) 6" Slip-joint pliers marked "SJ6AL TAT KOREA"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138444_.jpg)
5) 10" water pump pliers marked "Thorsen Allied 6J10AL" / "Forged Steel" / "Spain"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138445_.jpg)
6) 6" Needle nose pliers marked "Thorsen USA LN-6"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138446_.jpg)
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Adjustable wrenches (seen here before, but posted again for the sake of grouping Thorsen). From the top:
1) 10" marked "10IN. Thorsen AW-10 Forged Alloy Steel" / "10 IN. MFD.USA T99" with MFD over USA and "t99" perpendicular to the other scripting.
2) 10" marked "10" Allied" / "China"
3) 8" marked "AW8AL Thorsen Allied" / "Forged Alloy Steel Spain"
4) 6" marked "AW6AL Thorsen Allied" / "Forged Alloy Steel Spain"
5) 8" marked "8"/200mm Thorsen 56728" / "Euro-style Wide Grip"
6) 8" marked "8"/200mm Thorsen 56728" / "Euro-style Wide Grip"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138386_.jpg)
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Wrench pictures with the framework on the numbering construct. They were made in, at least, the following configurations; not yet addressing the various shank styles, scripting, and markings.
10xx series - short pattern - metric combination wrenches with an offset on the 12 point boxed end.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138508_.jpg)
10xx series - long pattern - metric combination wrenches with an offset on the 12 point boxed end. Note the two smaller 6-point boxed ends. It seems to be a trend of Thorsen to move from 12-point to 6-point in offering on the lower sizes.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138506_.jpg)
11xx series - metric double open end wrenches
not pictured
20xx series - short pattern - SAE combination wrenches with an offset on the 12 point boxed end.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138510_.jpg)
20xx series - long pattern - SAE combination wrenches with an offset on the 12 point boxed end.
Center row, from the top
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138512_.jpg)
21xx series - short pattern - SAE double boxed end 30 degree offset 12 point wrenches
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138513_.jpg)
21xx series - short pattern - SAE double boxed end 15 degree offset 12 point wrenches
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138518_.jpg)
22xx series - long pattern - SAE double boxed end 30 degree offset 12 point wrenches
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138514_.jpg)
22xx series - long pattern - SAE double boxed end 15 degree offset 12 point wrenches
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138519_.jpg)
30xx series - SAE double open end wrenches
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138515_.jpg)
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Of the 95 various wrench configurations (again, not diving into variations of script, logo, marking, knurling, etc.) that I currently know have existed - 54 are represented in Thorsen USA - 41 are not.
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Thorsen 42J 3/8" drive, 6-1/2" long, 4.6oz sliding t-bar with markings "Thorsen MFD. U.S.A. 42J" with MFD. over U.S.A.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138812_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138814_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138815_.jpg)
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Thorsen CP center punch at 5" long and 2.2oz - markings of "=CP Thorsen USA="
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138822_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138825_.jpg)
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Thorsen SP 3/16" punch at 5-1/2" long and 3.2oz - markings of "=SP Thorsen USA 3/16="
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138828_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138830_.jpg)
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Thorsen 774 combination open ratchet end and 12 point boxed end - markings of "Thorsen Tools - Oakland - Calif." on one shank, and "7/16 SPEED-???" + some small text over small txt + "774 0" . I would say it reads "SPEED-WFR" - but can't be certain. It weighs 1.7oz and is 6-1/4" long.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138835_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138833_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138832_.jpg)
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It says "Speed-Hed" and the small print says "pat. applied for". They don't show up very often in my neck of the woods.
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/1speedhed.jpg)
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/2speedhed.jpg)
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Thorsen Oakland California, you don't see that everday.
More I think about it, there was some NOS stuff I bought in the 90's from a guy who went to an auction for a hardware store that locked its doors in the late 60's (or so the guy claimed). Some of the wrenches were SK Lectrolite, but I think there was some Thorsen in the lot he sold me.
Time for more digging................... (http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii199/redheadedgoddess/Animations/dogdiggr-1.gif)
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The Speed-hed patent was granted in 1951, so you have a date range for that one at least....
Astonishing collection Oily....
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Wrench pictures with the framework on the numbering construct. They were made in, at least, the following configurations; not yet addressing the various shank styles, scripting, and markings.
10xx series - short pattern - metric combination wrenches with an offset on the 12 point boxed end.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_138508_.jpg)
Do you have any of the chrome raised panel Thorsens?
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Thorsen Oakland California, you don't see that everday.
More I think about it, there was some NOS stuff I bought in the 90's from a guy who went to an auction for a hardware store that locked its doors in the late 60's (or so the guy claimed). Some of the wrenches were SK Lectrolite, but I think there was some Thorsen in the lot he sold me.
Time for more digging................... (http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii199/redheadedgoddess/Animations/dogdiggr-1.gif)
Found them! Thorsen's plating wasn't the best from the factory.................these may have a speckle in some spots from humidity over time, or some minute shelf wear, but you can't tell they were ever used.................
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I hold nothing about this thread sacred or personal - if you have Thorsen related comments please leave them. If you have Thorsen tools not represented (or better represented) please post pictures of them. Its high time for a good Thorsen thread to build on and learn from.
Do you have any of the chrome raised panel Thorsens?
A few, Yes. But nothing the same as with the older flat shank style.
Found them! Thorsen's plating wasn't the best from the factory.................these may have a speckle in some spots from humidity over time, or some minute shelf wear, but you can't tell they were ever used.................
Post some pictures!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'd love to see what you have. Please let me know if you should have any interest in parting with them - depending on what you have I may have interest.
The Speed-hed patent was granted in 1951, so you have a date range for that one at least....
Astonishing collection Oily....
I always heard your eyes were the SECOND thing to go - not true for me was the first! Thank you, and Thank you!
It says "Speed-Hed" and the small print says "pat. applied for". They don't show up very often in my neck of the woods.
I'm drooling, Kit! My tool store run for you today was a flop - story for another venue.
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Post some pictures!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'd love to see what you have. Please let me know if you should have any interest in parting with them - depending on what you have I may have interest.
Didn't know what to call them, other than raised chrome panel. Obviously the big box end is not, and the 1/2" breaker bar is simply stamped Thorsen 16 . All are used.
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Didn't know what to call them, other than raised chrome panel. Obviously the big box end is not, and the 1/2" breaker bar is simply stamped Thorsen 16 .
Spectacular show of wrenches, Toolhound! I'm drooling!
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Bunch of used 3/8" and 1/2" drive sockets.
The deep one on the lower right is a bite to find.............in any brand......shallow or deep..............1-3/16"!!
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Bunch of used miscellaneous stuff.........................check out the 3019 open end.............few and far between......................the 3 stubby box end at the bottom look to have spent some time outside in the rain/snow. Sad, don't think they've been used, still in their factory clasp. Evapo-rust might salvage them, but they'll have some pitting. The 15/16 at the top only has Thorsen 15/16 stamped on it, no U.S.A.??
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Thorsen 15X 3/4" drive, 3-3/4" long, 14.5oz extension marked "Thorsen 15X" - Note here the absence of "Hot Forged" - as was the case with the previously shown 3/4" drive set.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_139059_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_139062_.jpg)
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Oily, I am very happy with the 3/4" set right now but if I want to part with it I will certainly give you first shot. The hot forge mark is only on the sockets not the drive tools, sorry for any confusion. I have a few early Thorsen pieces you might like to see would it be ok to post them here?
stormking
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I have a few early Thorsen pieces you might like to see would it be ok to post them here?
stormking
Please do!
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Short wrench set, appears NOS.
(http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/17/dscn1550nh.jpg)
By stormking3 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/stormking3) at 2012-07-31
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This is one of my all time favorite sets. This 3/4" drive set dates from the early 30's (I think) or the dawn of Thorsen tools. It has sockets marked TT in a circle and GT in a hexagon. The look and feel of this set says original to me. Alloy Artifacts says there was a connection between Thorsen and General tools of Portland. I think Thorsen or P&C (or both) made tools for General Tool in the 30's. These three companies were fairly well entwined until Plomb bought out P&C in the early 40's. I got this at an estate sale of an old heavy equipment mechanic a few miles from General Tool in Portland.
(http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/6453/dscn1549l.jpg)
By stormking3 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/stormking3) at 2012-07-31
(http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/800/dscn1546uy.jpg)
By stormking3 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/stormking3) at 2012-07-31
(http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/1474/dscn1547z.jpg)
By stormking3 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/stormking3) at 2012-07-31
(http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/6867/dscn1548ri.jpg)
By stormking3 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/stormking3) at 2012-07-31
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Thorsen 88 JNR - 3/8" drive, 11" long, 13.4oz, flex head ratchet with markings: on the selector switch "Pat. Pend" over "USA" and "Thorsen USA 88 JNR" on the shank.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4033.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4034.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4038.jpg)
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Posting here for the Thorsen crowd - nice box on Etsy.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/98492461/vintage-rare-thorsen-tool-box-with-some?ref=sr_gallery_32&ga_search_query=tool+box&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_page=2&ga_search_type=all
Brian L.
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A pawn shop find: (in purple cap) Action 081A, 3-1/8" long, 1.2 oz. beside his brother the Thorsen 081 (also 1.2oz but at 3-1/4" long)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_143454_.jpg)
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Thorsen Set 3810 - Dallas TX production vintage - 10 piece 3/8" drive SAE socket set 3/8" - 3/4"
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_155133_.jpg)
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How do you get so many photos posted? was there a limit?
I just started & want to learn how you do it..
Thanks..
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How do you get so many photos posted? was there a limit?
I just started & want to learn how you do it..
Thanks..
Read- http://www.papawswrench.com/vboard/index.php?topic=61.0 (http://www.papawswrench.com/vboard/index.php?topic=61.0)
The best way to post pictures is to have them hosted on a hosting site like Flickr, Picasa, Photobucket, etc. , and use the codes provided by them for inserting pictures.
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3/8" drive Thorsen set - unknown set number - unknown vintage. Present is:
1) Metal box - measuring and made the same as previously pictured set number 3810, but in a different color (green)
2) 3/8" drive ratchet - 77JC (marked with "-4" on the shank)
3) 51J - 2" extension
4) 6 point 3/8" socket - 312X
5) 12 point 9/16" socket - 318
6) 12 point 5/8" socket - 320
7) 12 point 11/16" socket - 322
8) 12 point 3/4" socket - 324
Missing is (assumed) - 1) 6pt 7/16" 314X, and 2) 12pt 1/2" 316
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158515_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158516_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158518_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158521_.jpg)
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Thorsen MC-8 8 Piece Metric Combination Wrench Set - "New Old Stock" - Retail price marked $18.99 - Dallas, TX production vintage. Present in set as received (note the 560 Kraeuter 10mm combo in set)
1) 1007 7MM short pattern combination wrench
2) 1008 8MM short pattern combination wrench
3) 1009 9MM short pattern combination wrench
4) 560 Kraeuter 10mm short pattern combination wrench
5) 1011 11MM short pattern combination wrench
6) 1012 12MM short pattern combination wrench
7) 1013 13MM short pattern combination wrench
8) 1014 14MM short pattern combination wrench
9) MC-8 vinyl pouch
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158522_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158524_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158525_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158526_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158528_.jpg)
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Thorsen 3/4" drive sockets and extension - incomplete set in excellent condition acquired - believed to be of the most recent USA production (based on model number construct and scripting). Present:
1) 1264 - 3/4" drive 12pt. 2" socket
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158530_.jpg)
2) 1260 - 3/4" drive 12pt. 1-7/8" socket
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158539_.jpg)
3) 1258 - 3/4" drive 12pt. 1-13/16" socket
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158540_.jpg)
4) 1250 - 3/4" drive 12pt. 1-9/16" socket
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158541_.jpg)
5) 1246 - 3/4" drive 12pt. 1-7/16" socket
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158542_.jpg)
6) 1234 - 3/4" drive 12pt. 1-1/16" socket
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158543_.jpg)
7) 1232 - 3/4" drive 12pt. 1" socket
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158544_.jpg)
8) 15X - 3/4" drive 2" long extension
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_158545_.jpg)
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Wow! Nice score, Oily. Looks brand new.
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Thorsen Ln-6 needle nose pliers - 6" long and 4.7 ounces - in new condition with original packaging
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_161519_.jpg)
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Heads up, Oily. There's a Thorsen 77 -- no letter following -- just up this morning on eBay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Old-Vintage-THORSEN-1-2-dr-Socket-Ratchet-Wrench-Tool-/310413367815?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4846141a07
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A few additions to the Thorsen collection. The first is a '80s USA made Model 1240 - 3/4" drive 1-1/4" 12 point socket. I purchased it specifically to complete the 3/4" drive set recently started. I received it still in its original packaging and cosmo - some interesting data can be derived from the label.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_163462_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_163464_.jpg)
A model 1242, 3/4" drive, 1-5/16" 12pt
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_163466_.jpg)
and a model 1230, 3/4" drive, 15/16" 12pt
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_163468_.jpg)
A nice condition, later model, 77JC, 3/8" drive ratchet
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_163470_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_163471_.jpg)
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>interesting data can be derived from the label.
Things you need to go with it:
]CARR AMMO TRKD M992A2
or
]Armored Vehicle Launched Bridge (AVLB), M60A1
or, my favorite
]HOWITZER, SELF-PROPELLED, FULL TRACKED, 155MM M109A6 (Paladin)
No homeowner should be without one...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:M109A5_in_repair.JPG
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3/4 to 1/2 adapter. Thorsen 98D
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/Thors98D.jpg)
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Half inch drive Torque Wrench. A beauty. The handle on this one does not rock side to side like most of the plastic handled ones. Does anyone know why the handles are made to rock side to side?
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/ThorsTorque.jpg)
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T-100 - I agree, they are beauty's. I believe the one I have is of the same vintage.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_166831_.jpg)
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3/4 to 1/2 adapter. Thorsen 98D
The adapter is of the same vintage and style as the 3/4" drive set I've started. It would make for a nice reunion of family should you decide you'd like to part with it.
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I have some Thorsen wrenches I have treasured for 40 years and a Thorsen Tool Board. I will post a picture of the board later
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Thorsen 42J break-over addition:
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_168655_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_168657_.jpg)
A 1/2" drive 5/8" 12point swivel socket - Model 420
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/846471584_photobucket_168658_.jpg)
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Thorsen 10" adjustable; model AW-10. Marked "AW-10 THORSEN" / "FORGED ALLOY STEEL USA".
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_182565_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_182568_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_182573_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_182574_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_182585_.jpg)
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Derek, have you been able to determine the likely vintage of the Oakland marked tools? I added a couple more Speed Hed wrenches. As luck would have it, none are of the size you have already I don't think. The two newest additions are in very nice condition, near mint I'd say. Also added a dbe of a size not yet pictured. Here they are.
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/1speedhed_zpsfc178bed.jpg)
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/2speedhed_zps4d659028.jpg)
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/thorsdbe_zps80443a36.jpg)
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Back a ways in the thread, the question was asked as to why the handles are on rocker on a torque wrench. The answer is that the wrench is calibrated in foot pounds and the rocker point establishes the length of the wrench as long as you stay in the middle of the rocker.
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Sort of....
If you put your thumb on the handle when pulling, you can introduce a rotational torque on the handle itself between your thumb and fingers. The wrench can not compensate for that, and it will introduce an error (in theory), so by floating the handle on a single pivot point, you have no rotational forces on the wrench except those at the thing you are measuring.
From a practical point of view, the whole thing is silly, you can't really introduce more than one or two foot pounds that way unless you have hands like a gorilla...
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See Avatar above.
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Derek, have you been able to determine the likely vintage of the Oakland marked tools? I added a couple more Speed Hed wrenches. As luck would have it, none are of the size you have already I don't think. The two newest additions are in very nice condition, near mint I'd say. Also added a dbe of a size not yet pictured. Here they are.
Kit, I have not been able to date them, and these Speed Hed wrenches are the only Thorsen tools I've seen insofar that have that Oakland marking.
I would have considered these Speed Hed wrenches uncommon, yet you are surfacing them in droves. Either I'm mistaken about their rarity factor or you're one lucky person - or both :)
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I did find an article in a 1952 Popular Mechanics magazine regarding "ratcheting wrenches". The magazine (in an index) notes the maker as Thorsen Tools, 532 Horton St., Emeryville CA
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I did find an article in a 1952 Popular Mechanics magazine regarding "ratcheting wrenches". The magazine (in an index) notes the maker as Thorsen Tools, 532 Horton St., Emeryville CA
I should have noted, as it is important to remember, the factory and offices/sales were at different locations at that time. So it would not strike me odd to see the advert. listing the address as Emeryville, whereas the wrench is marked Oakland. I think it is fair to say the Speed Hed's start was 1952 given the "now available" statement in the advert.
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I should have noted, as it is important to remember, the factory and offices/sales were at different locations at that time. So it would not strike me odd to see the advert. listing the address as Emeryville, whereas the wrench is marked Oakland.
It's hard to tell where Emeryville stops and Oakland starts. Horton is very close to the San Francisco Bay, and the area is filled with industrial buildings converted to lofts, stores, and upscale restaurants. The Oakland address could be very close to the Horton Street address.
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It's hard to tell where Emeryville stops and Oakland starts. Horton is very close to the San Francisco Bay, and the area is filled with industrial buildings converted to lofts, stores, and upscale restaurants. The Oakland address could be very close to the Horton Street address.
Thanks for calling that out. I can see now where there is not a clean line in the city references.
A 1938-1939 catalog notes the following addresses:
General Sales Office - 1475 Bush Street, San Fran
Oakland Warehouse and Store - 392 24th Street, Holliday
Manufactoring Plant - 5321 Horton Street, Emeryville
Los Angeles Sales (Thorsen Tool Co. of Souther Calif.) - 1352 South Flower Street, Los Angeles
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/Thorsen1930CatalogAddressList.jpg)
The 1958 brochure that Lauver brought to the table notes the address as: 5325 Horton Street, Oakland.
Below is a map putting it all in a little better perspective relative to each other:
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/thorsenaddressesmap.jpg)
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One more major data point on the "Speed Hed" wrenches.
Source – Steel Processing & Conversion, Volume 36, Page 285
Equipment: pair of 100-ton punch presses (Ferracute & Verron)
Equipment: Acme forging machine
Equipment: Six (6) Cleveland Automatic Screw Machines
Photography: Shows photograph of dies being installed into equipment.
Notes: “These Speed Head wrenches are among the principal hand tools forged by Thorsen Tools organization at Emeryville, CA. Note the peculiar design of open ends, which enable the wrenches to rotate without moving parts.”
NOW -
Quoting AA: "The design and construction of this example strongly suggest Vlchek as the manufacturer, as does the forged-in number "9" near the open end. The markings on the tool also point to a contract maker, as Thorsen did not usually mark its Oakland location on tools."
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This is one of my all time favorite sets. This 3/4" drive set dates from the early 30's (I think) or the dawn of Thorsen tools. It has sockets marked TT in a circle and GT in a hexagon. The look and feel of this set says original to me. Alloy Artifacts says there was a connection between Thorsen and General tools of Portland. I think Thorsen or P&C (or both) made tools for General Tool in the 30's. These three companies were fairly well entwined until Plomb bought out P&C in the early 40's. I got this at an estate sale of an old heavy equipment mechanic a few miles from General Tool in Portland.
(http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/6453/dscn1549l.jpg)
By stormking3 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/stormking3) at 2012-07-31
I'm not sure how I ever missed this post, but I did. This is one of the oldest sets I've seen. The TT in a circle is significant in it's dating, as is the "GT". Lawton wrote of the inefficiency in the factory due to changing out dies for just a few tools in a run. There is no question they were private label stamping them at the factory. Great find!
1941
Source – “The Shurtleff and Lawton families: genealogy and history”
Company Name: “Thorsen Tools”
Products: sockets, socket wrenches, socket attachments, flat wrenches, and specialized tools.
Production Contract: “One large contract for wrenches for Indian motorcycles”
Notes “Thorsen Tools” was purchased in early 1941 for a total of “about $20,000”; with $14,000 of Harry Pete’s money, $3000 of Lawton Shurtleff and Bobbies, and $5000 limited partnership loan from roy. It notes Harry Pete had 49 percent, Lawton/Bobbie had 17.65 percent ownership, that Roy had 34 percent with an invested $5000 as a limited partner with no share in the liabilities. Notes that Thorsen was run down at the time of purchase, and that there were five employees (not counting the new owners). The main products at time of purchase were sockets, socket wrenches, socket attachments, flat wrenches and specialized auto tools. Notes E.A Boyd’s Thorsen Tools in San Fran had exclusive rights for northern CA sales; California Tool Co had rights for southern CA., and General Tool Company controlling Washington and Oregan, with “Old Forge” in PA with exclusive rights to the east coast. Notes Thorsen production private branded tools for those distributors. It notes government contracts and “one large contract for wrenches for Indian motorcycles” gave a new lease on life for Thorsen.
Sales: $40,000
Profit: $8,000 before salaries.
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As you can see on the map, these two (Oakland Warehouse and Store - 392 24th Street, Holliday Manufactoring Plant - 5321 Horton Street, Emeryville) are just walking distance from one another. As I suspected. My sister (an artist) has a live/work space just off Horton. Next time I visit, I'll take a little walk.
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For those interested in the Thorsen / Giller connection:
We now know, thanks to a little known lawsuit in TX, that David Giller became an employee of Thorsen Tool Company in 1970. At all times during Giller's employment with Thorsen that Lawton Shurtleff was Chief Operating Officer of Thorsen. Further, we know that Giller worked directly for Shurtleff; Shurtleff was Giller's supervisor.
However, we also know that their relationship extends further back than 1970 (Giller's start at Thorsen). In 1968 the two entered an agreement to construct apartments in Dallas. In 1969 they borrowed some 170k for the project, paid it down to 60k by the project, and Shurtleff paid the remaining 60k.
In 1973 Shurtleff allegedly demands Giller sign a note to repay the 60k (actually over 60k with 9% interest), or he will lose his job with Thorsen tools.
In the end Lawton sued David for the 60k, but lost on the basis of "duress" he applied to David threatening his job while his daughter was sick in the hospital (at a charge of $700/week). Appeals courts later upheld the decision.
We also know Giller's employment contract contained a covenant not to compete with his employer, Thorsen, for five years following termination of his services for any reason, and that Giller KNEW of his covenant not to compete.
I'm left to conclude a Thorsen / Giller production/marketing relationship was very short lived, or did not exist. The continued references to non-compete agreements insinuates some breach or problem.....though it is not specifically called out (and may have been excluded from the lawsuit because of irrelevance, as it was "personal business" outside Thorsen). It seems clear to me though that Shurtleff was trying to make an issue of non-compete in the lawsuit.
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Hey Oily, Great info your posting up. I have a few 1940's General tool catalogs I have collected. The oldest from 1945 and by that time General no longer sold Thorsen tools at least they are not in the product catalog. General only listed Plomb and Armstrong tools. Even today General is a Proto dealer. In regards to the 3/4" drive set in the carrier, the sockets all have the same maker look to them either marked TT or GT. I have other 1/2"sockets marked GT that were found with early P&C sets and they look the same also.
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A picture of Roy Shurtleff about the time of his Thorsen investment, 1941, along with his Berkeley classmates (a number of who become very well known for their investment careers, and in financing the West' development).
Source: Roy L. Shurtleff, "The University's Class of 1912, Investment Banking, and the Shurtleff Family History" an oral history conducted in 1981 by Harriet Nathan, Regional Oral History Office, The Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley, 1982.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/RoyShurtleff1941withclassmates.jpg)
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Not to mention Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and 3 time California governor Earl Warren. Cool!
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Not to mention Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and 3 time California governor Earl Warren. Cool!
Not to mention, too, the photo was taken at the Bohemian Grove!
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One has to wonder if Mr Shurtleff's seemingly inordinate amount of favorable court decisions would have anything to do with the crowd he ran with. Earl Warren for cripes sake!!
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I stopped in the pawn shop yesterday with no money in my pocket and of course I found a bunch of cool tools that I could not buy at the time so I did the only thing a penniless tool junky could do. I hid the ones I wanted behind the bins where no one will ever look and will go back this weekend and snag them. One piece was a swivel spark plug socket by Thorsen. I think it's the first I've seen. I will go back this weekend and It will be mine. Pictures to come. I hadn't been to the shop for some time, so there were quite a few tools stuffed safely behind the bins.
I learned this trick when I was 13 years old and lived on a very remote tropical island where the ship came about every 2 months with the latest and greatest products from the States. My interest was in record albums at the time and my M.O. was to get there on day one, find the albums I wanted and take them over to the brief cases and stuff one full of the records I wanted. It was a flawless technique and I consequently had the greatest collection of new releases on the island. Two records I can remember getting this way were Rolling Stones "High Tides and Green Grass" and "Got Live if You Want It". Not necessarily records I would have ordered, but it was all about getting it before someone else did at that time. Albums were about a buck 79 at the time ... seemed like a lot back then. I still have them, all of them.
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Great story!
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4" Thorsen Model 16704 adjustable wrench coming from Lostmind. I would date it after 1975, based on the model number construct.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_191797_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_191798_.jpg)
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Here are a few more '600' series sockets, another 53 extension and a 426J swivel spark plug socket with the rubber insert intact.
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/ThorsDeep.jpg)
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Fresh in the door, Thorsen USA torx drivers; T10, T15, T20, T25, T30. It rather sucks they did not bother to mark the sizes on the shank; although now that I look the part number gives a clue (e.g. T20 is Model 156320)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_192791_.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_192792_.jpg)
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It has been strongly suggested Thorsen Speed-Hed wrenches were the only tools Thorsen marked with "Oak. Calif." - Below is evidence there were other early Thorsen tools marked this way.
I personally suspect this was a marking used starting in the early-mid 1940s, along side the "TT" in a circle marking - likely released subsequent to a business decision to discontinue custom stampings for General Tool (and the other exclusive dealers).
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/thorsen4.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/thorsen1.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/thorsen2.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/thorsen3.jpg)
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A few recent Thorsen acquisitions:
Metal set box marked "Thorsen Tools, 5321 Horton St. , Emeryville, Calif., USA" and "Manufacturers of SPEED-HED Wrenches". Unknown to me as to the original contents of the box, if any.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4480.jpg)
The Yankee Doodle Special - Set Number 1776 marked - 1/4" and 3/8" drive SAE and Metric - with some propaganda re: Metric on the reverse of the insert.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4481.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4482.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4483.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4484.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4485.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4486.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4487.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4488.jpg)
Set Number 1416 - 1/4" Drive 16 piece SAE set coming from Moose - Dallas production vintage
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4489.jpg)
Unknown set number - 1/4" drive 16 piece Metric set - Dallas production vintage
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4490.jpg)
Another 1/4" drive SAE set - unknown set number - unknown vintage - box contained sockets with a mixture of vintages
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG4492.jpg)
I've got some Thorsen.
PM Inbound
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Another picture of Roy Shurtleff - this one at age 20 (1908) out of an article titled "Young Nimrods Plan Bear Hunt"
Source: San Francisco Call, Volume 104, Number 47
HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SEEK BIG GAME
Will Remain in Wilds of Mendocino County for Three Weeks
BERKELEY, July 16. — Bear hunting in the wilds of Mendocino county for the next three weeks is the plan of Roy Shurtleff and George Harlowe, two graduates of the Berkeley high school, who left for their hunting trip today. They will return to this city In time to enter the university, about the middle of August.
Each boy will be armed with a slhotgun and rifle and will be accompanied by a dog.
Both Shurtleff and Harlowe are well known here in high school circles. Shurtleff was editor of the Skulk, the high school funny paper, and a member of the Cannibal and Lamp and Quill societies. Harlowe is a track athlete and prominent in the affairs of the local school.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/RoyShurtleffYoungNimrodsPlanBearHunt.jpg)
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A few recent unique additions to the Thorsen collection. Most of these coming from FrankLee.
A Model 80J 1/2" driver
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_223006_.jpg)
Model 25F feeler gauge set marked with TT in a circle
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_223007_.jpg)
JX series swivel sockets - 414JX, 416JX, 424JX, and 426JR
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_223008_.jpg)
Model 18 1/2" drive x 5/16" something. I'm not yet clear if this is a drive adapter (never heard of a 5/16" drive) or a specialty tool.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_223012_.jpg)
Model 53 1/2" extension - 5" long
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/846471584_photobucket_223016_.jpg)
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Oily,
It has got to be pretty easy to make a list of what's missing. It would be kinda hard for even ol' Mr Shurtleff to stump you with a tool you've never seen. Did you ever finish restoring the four boards? I assume that by now you can fill them.
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It has got to be pretty easy to make a list of what's missing. It would be kinda hard for even ol' Mr Shurtleff to stump you with a tool you've never seen. Did you ever finish restoring the four boards? I assume that by now you can fill them.
:) I've had a list from the onset that I've worked against. I'm missing 24 at this point to complete the 4 boards. Those missing are ( for the most part) pipe wrenches, hammers, and pliers. I have not acquired any of the hammers at this point. I would imagine those may go on for many many years. Again that is to complete the tools for the 4 boards. I would post the missing here, and still may at some point, but I do not believe that's in the project's best interest at this point. The four board carousel is refinished and sits in a dismantled state. I do not have a "good place" to display it assembled at the moment. You must appreciate I originally had no plan to keep it (was pushed over the cliff here). I do not have all of the parts to complete the carousel as it was originally shipped (it was missing it's chrome rails). That is not to say it can't stand as it is, it's just more decision criteria for me. I'm not sure yet that I would not rather have it as four boards on a wall. I would rather wait until I'm able to find it a permanent placement before I go any further on it.
In terms of the broader collection outside the "boards", there are currently 2286 individual articles in the larger Thorsen collection. I've had much success in the collection of Thorsen tools in their later USA production years - let's say early 50's on is represented well with the exception of those things already noted above. I have made much less ground with covering their early years (late 20's - late 40's). The feeler gauges coming from FrankLee being one of the few early tools I have. I missed out on one very important acquisition of early tools. That will not happen to me again.
All that said - I still lack sound reference material for the full breath of their USA production. I often struggle with what may be out there that I'm missing........but that is the fun of it for me - the chase to find more data points, more history, more tools I've not seen and need to understand.
It's not yet been a year since I started collecting Thorsen, so I feel very good about the project's progress and status. It would have been very difficult, and much more costly, to do this without the assistance of so many folks from here. I appreciate everything that has been done to help.
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An observation I'd thought I'd share. It seems there were at least the following USA productions, or generations. This is my current thinking (WAG) based on what I've learned so far, the tools shared here, and those I've collected. I'll work to come back and show representations of each in an orderly manner. This past weekend I enjoyed going through those acquired and putting together an early '50s vintage "master set" based on the box that came from Moose. I believe I have the tools true to that vintage. I'll also share that grouping when its photo time.
Disclaimer: this is a work in progress and subject to my errors and omissions. I welcome your comment. My intent is to share, and solicit, data regarding the various scripting, as there is limited information currently available.
1) Marked with TT in a circle in conjunction with "GT" (General Tool) or other private branding. (no COO markings) - suspect late 20's through early 30's
2) Marked with TT in a circle in conjunction with "Thorsen Tool" (no COO markings) - suspect late 20's through early 30's with "Thorsen" being another private branding label as noted above (and previous documented in this thread).
3) Marked with TT in a circle with no other company markings (no COO markings) - I suspect early 30's
4) Marked Thorsen with block style font - suspect 40's - 50's vintage
Identity crisis starts here in mid to late 50's????????
5) Marked Thorsen and "Hot Forged"
6) Marked Thorsen AND Oak. Calif. with stylized font - unknown vintage, but suspect mid to late 50's and first font change
7) Marked Thorsen with stylized font
8) Marked Thorsen with stylized font and "USA" markings
9) Marked Thorsen with stylized font and "MFD" over "USA" markings
10) Marked Thorsen with sytlized font, MFD USA, AND = = markings - latest USA production vintage. some of the tools are cold broached, and some are hot broached in this marking style. This suggest the style ran from before Dallas production into Dallas production, as cold broaching was introduced with the Dallas machinery.
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Thanks for the update on the collection. It is hard to believe that it has only been a year since you started. It only seems like a lifetime. (chuckling and ducking). I hope that you are able to find good a place to display them. Remember that the only time that those boards were displayed 100% full was at trade shows. The retailers ALWAYS had empty hooks.
What do you know about the distribution chain? There may be partial catalogs in some of the auto parts and hardware distributor catalogs from back in the early days that would help date some of the the markings.
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What do you know about the distribution chain? There may be partial catalogs in some of the auto parts and hardware distributor catalogs from back in the early days that would help date some of the the markings.
Howdy John! Appreciate your words. What I know of the distribution chain is:
1) Source: family genealogy book written by Shurtleff. Confirmed with example tools. Exclusive private branding distribution in the first few years.
2) Source: Inserts in tool sets, and written testimony from a member in the know. Confirmed in example tools. Distribution was, at least, through "Farm Supply" stores.
3) Source: genealogy book again. Confirmed via NOS tool acquisition. US Government contracts/distribution during WWII and at least through 1984.
4) Source: verbal testimony of 16 "vintage" auto parts stores throughout south Arkansas and North Louisiana. Napa, Western Auto were the focus but some "home town" unbranded stores surveyed. 1 unbranded parts store, out of the 16 total stores, had an employee with knowledge of them being sold out of the auto parts store. Catalogs since gone. Last recollection of distribution through his store being in the 1970's.
5) Source: verbal testimony of "tool store" in business since the early 40s. "We could get Thorsen through our distributors, and they were represented in their master catalogs. We threw out several dumpsters full just last month cleaning up".
6) Source: 1985 Thorsen catalog. It has a "Weatherly Index" number printed on the cover. This implies formal catalog organization; such as within a parts store from my understanding. The catalog was addressed to ........ Supply Company, Wholesale Distributors.
7) Source: 1930s Thorsen catalog. marked as distributed by "Lerer & Son Automotive, Petalhuma Calif." I know nothing of this company as of yet.
That's all I know, and how I know it.
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and THIS 1930's catalog ending last evening on Ebay will hopefully help.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/190763463070?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2648
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and THIS 1930's catalog ending last evening on Ebay will hopefully help.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/190763463070?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2648
Well shoot, I just missed that one at 135.50
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and THIS 1930's catalog ending last evening on Ebay will hopefully help.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/190763463070?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2648
Well shoot, I just missed that one at 135.50
Good to know the feller that cost me holiday gifts for the wife :)
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She told me she was looking forward to seeing her new catalog :)
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Hello Branson and OilyWrench.... My Dad Lawton Shurtleff ran Thorsen Tools from 1941-1968 when it was sold to HydroMetals. During WW2 and thereafter until 1968, the only address Thorsen ever had was 5321 Horton, on the Oakland/Emeryville Line and Southern Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad Tracks. Since in
the early days, nobody recognized Emeryville, Thorsen would just say that their company was in Oakland. If that misinformation was ever printed onto
Thorsen Tools..then I never saw it. Good luck...Jeffrey Shurtleff/San Bruno, CA
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Hello Branson and OilyWrench.... My Dad Lawton Shurtleff ran Thorsen Tools from 1941-1968 when it was sold to HydroMetals. During WW2 and thereafter until 1968, the only address Thorsen ever had was 5321 Horton, on the Oakland/Emeryville Line and Southern Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad Tracks. Since in
the early days, nobody recognized Emeryville, Thorsen would just say that their company was in Oakland. If that misinformation was ever printed onto
Thorsen Tools..then I never saw it. Good luck...Jeffrey Shurtleff/San Bruno, CA
Now there is some definitive info!
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Hello Branson and OilyWrench.... My Dad Lawton Shurtleff ran Thorsen Tools from 1941-1968 when it was sold to HydroMetals. During WW2 and thereafter until 1968, the only address Thorsen ever had was 5321 Horton, on the Oakland/Emeryville Line and Southern Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad Tracks. Since in
the early days, nobody recognized Emeryville, Thorsen would just say that their company was in Oakland. If that misinformation was ever printed onto
Thorsen Tools..then I never saw it. Good luck...Jeffrey Shurtleff/San Bruno, CA
Mr. Shurtleff - Thank you for your response. I see that you've posted as a guest versus a registered user. I think its fair to say a number of us would love to see you here as a member. I know I'd certainly appreciate hearing your stories/views. As you've probably figured out in this thread, I have a bit of a fondness for Thorsen tools and learning it's history.
Best regards, Derek Alphin
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Mr. Shurtleff - Thank you for your response. I see that you've posted as a guest versus a registered user. I think its fair to say a number of us would love to see you here as a member. I know I'd certainly appreciate hearing your stories/views. As you've probably figured out in this thread, I have a bit of a fondness for Thorsen tools and learning it's history.
Best regards, Derek Alphin
I'll say! Maybe you have an answer about a pair of needle nose pliers I picked up. They're marked "Thorsen International" and "Sheffield England." I'll see if I can get a photograph of them.
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Shedding light on the Giller / Thorsen connection would also be an important discussion for all of us. The nature of the relationship, and its details, are completely unclear prior to 1968. I'm still of the belief there are pre-1968 Giller branded tools that were produced by Thorsen - or to their specs, or leveraging their machinery/factory, or purchasing style rights.....something. In the past couple days I've seen a 1966 stamped Giller box that certainly appears to be Thorsen made to me. Many of the Giller tools coming from government auctions also appear to be earlier (40's?) Thorsen tools rebranded. I'd like to know for certain if Giller (branded tools) was as simple as a Thorsen brand name for government contract tools, or if the relationship was more complex.
I'd also throw the possibility of a Kraeuter connection; at least for a period of time. I do so because of the similarity of certain vintage Kraeuter's to Thorsen tools, and the fact one set of New Old Stock Thorsen wrenches came with a 10mm Kraeauter inside.
Lastly while we discuss branding - let's put a potential for a Pwr-Kraft connection in there as well. Many times I've surfaced a "Powr-Kraft" branded tool that appeared Thorsen made.
All of the above is strong suspicion based on research and needs attestation before I will document it as fact. I have so many questions that could potentially be answered by this gentleman. I'm sure hopeful he responds again.
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A few Thorsen tools not yet shared:
Circa 1930's vintage; most likely year 1932 at an original cost of $.06. Flexo Carbon Scraper. Note the "S.F." SanFran markings.
"This handy tool will speed up the job of cleaning piston and cylinder heads greatly. Tension of scraping flingers is controlled by a sliding clamp."
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5521.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5522.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5523.jpg)
Also from the 1930's is this specialty automotive wrench. Model 10101; specific application not yet known. It has a 2" flat-to-flat opening on the working end. It is 11" long.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5518.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5519.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5520.jpg)
Thorsen USA 89J 3/8" thumb drive ratchet; 8" long. This is the only 89J I've seen or seen any documentation around.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5507.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5508.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5509.jpg)
Thorsen 77NR 1/2" drive ratchet; 13" long. Unclear if dust cover is missing, or if was not yet introduced.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5512.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5513.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5514.jpg)
Thorsen model 77 1/2" drive ratchet. Cadmium plating vintage. The dust cover IS NOT missing as this model pre-dates dust cover introduction.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5515.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5516.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5517.jpg)
Lastly, this model 714 7/16" nutdriver in clear/brown plastic handle.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG5524.jpg)
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I like that scraper, did not know they made them
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Oily, that 2" hex wrench is for old V8 Ford drain plugs.
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1930, Hi, I doubt Thorsen made the scraper, it was contract made, that's probably why it has the odd SF marking. Plomb probably used the same supplier and that's why their scrapers still had the "O" Plomb spelling years after they changed their stamping to the inverted triangle. The Flexible Carbon scraper Co. ( Vim / Durston )was founded in Pasadena in 32 or somewhere around then. I'm pretty sure they we making them for a lot of companies.
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Thanks, interesting and welcome!
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Thanks, mr.x!
Find the Introduction Section and tell us about yourself and your tool interests.
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Oily: Thorsen update, found you a Thorsen 12mm combo wrench(short one) and have a couple Gillers also. You behave while you're off the list.....lol
DM&FS
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During WW2 and thereafter until 1968, the only address Thorsen ever had was 5321 Horton, on the Oakland/Emeryville Line and Southern Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad Tracks. Since in
the early days, nobody recognized Emeryville, Thorsen would just say that their company was in Oakland. If that misinformation was ever printed onto
Thorsen Tools..then I never saw it. Good luck...Jeffrey Shurtleff/San Bruno, CA
[/quote]
Hi, I'm not sure I understand what the "misinformation" is referring to. "Emeryville" marking on tools?
BTW, does anyone know which Indian wrenches were manufactured by Thorsen?
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This is the only Emeryville marked tool I've come across.
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Someone on GJ has a nice looking Thorsen torque wrench.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=193320
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What a collection. five star effort bob w.
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I have a few Thorsen additions I'd like to share. I'm proud to say I have secured two of the pipe wrenches sought; the HD-18AL and the HD-10AL.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6104_zps2f826f32.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6105_zps30a86ad3.jpg)
This is one version of their nutdrivers:
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6106_zpsd00ea003.jpg)
Chisel & Punch set
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6107_zps0d18f736.jpg)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6108_zpseccdbe1a.jpg)
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This is a 1/2" drive Thorsen set I put together recently for my service truck. Note the Giller branded box (coming from jabberwoki). The set is not correct for anything other than my use.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6145_zpsfe966c6e.jpg)
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I picked up this partial set today.
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I picked up this partial set today.
The top two are my personal favorites of the Thorsen wrench styles.
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As an update - a few additions:
Thorsen Model 18 3/4" drive break-over
Dayton branded 4X9911 3/8" drive flex head ratchet - It is a Thorsen 77JNR rebranded
My first Thorsen hammer. It was buried in a lot of hammers; a BP20-AL
Thorsen USA GJ-10 water pump pliers
My first Thorsen obstruction wrench - Model 2518 5/8" x 9/16"
Thorsen Model 1612 7/16" x 3/8" DBE
Thorsen Model 2116 9/16" x 1/2" offset DBE
A cherry model 3016 9/16" x 1/2 DOE
a slotted driver I found at the pawn just today
and a partial 1/4" drive set - Set #1411
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6153_zps3a5fe8e8.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6153_zps3a5fe8e8.jpg.html)
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Nice score on the group. The hammer, pliers and obstruction wrench are not often seen in my neck of the woods.
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Here are some thorsen I picked up at a hardware store closing auction.
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more
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couple more pics
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Here are some thorsen I picked up at a hardware store closing auction.
Very nice!
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Hey OR,
Your Thorsen collection takes me down memory lane! Just a bit of trivia... as my after school job when I was in High School, I would drive my pickup to Thorsen and pick up binfulls of tools that were seconds and grind the Thorsen name off. Thorsen gave a lifetime guarantee like Craftsman. They paid me by the pound to do this so their 'rejects' wouldn't come back as warranty items. I remember hours that I sat at a bench grinder in my garage piling up steel dust for $0.50 per lb. FYI, it takes about 12-20 3/8" sockets to make one pound!
The upside: all my friends and I had excellent, well stocked tool boxes for teenagers! This was about 1973-1975. I still have alot of those sockets and wrenches today.
Thanks for the memory!
Clayton
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Hey OR,
Your Thorsen collection takes me down memory lane! Just a bit of trivia... as my after school job when I was in High School, I would drive my pickup to Thorsen and pick up binfulls of tools that were seconds and grind the Thorsen name off. Thorsen gave a lifetime guarantee like Craftsman. They paid me by the pound to do this so their 'rejects' wouldn't come back as warranty items. I remember hours that I sat at a bench grinder in my garage piling up steel dust for $0.50 per lb. FYI, it takes about 12-20 3/8" sockets to make one pound!
The upside: all my friends and I had excellent, well stocked tool boxes for teenagers! This was about 1973-1975. I still have alot of those sockets and wrenches today.
Thanks for the memory!
Clayton
Howdy, Clayton. I appreciate you sharing your experience. Interesting part of the business, and a practice I didn't know existed. You were in the Dallas area during this time? Pickup was at a Thorsen factory? Please do share those tools.
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Shedding light on the Giller / Thorsen connection would also be an important discussion for all of us. The nature of the relationship, and its details, are completely unclear prior to 1968. I'm still of the belief there are pre-1968 Giller branded tools that were produced by Thorsen - or to their specs, or leveraging their machinery/factory, or purchasing style rights.....something. In the past couple days I've seen a 1966 stamped Giller box that certainly appears to be Thorsen made to me. Many of the Giller tools coming from government auctions also appear to be earlier (40's?) Thorsen tools rebranded. I'd like to know for certain if Giller (branded tools) was as simple as a Thorsen brand name for government contract tools, or if the relationship was more complex.
I'd also throw the possibility of a Kraeuter connection; at least for a period of time. I do so because of the similarity of certain vintage Kraeuter's to Thorsen tools, and the fact one set of New Old Stock Thorsen wrenches came with a 10mm Kraeauter inside.
Lastly while we discuss branding - let's put a potential for a Pwr-Kraft connection in there as well. Many times I've surfaced a "Powr-Kraft" branded tool that appeared Thorsen made.
All of the above is strong suspicion based on research and needs attestation before I will document it as fact. I have so many questions that could potentially be answered by this gentleman. I'm sure hopeful he responds again.
Hey OR,
I posted about grinding the Thorsen name off of seconds so they wouldn't come back to the company as warranty items.
As to Giller/ PwrKraft/ Thorsen connection... yes, Thorsen was definitely the Mfg of Giller and Pwrkraft in their Dallas facility where I picked up bins of tools at a time.I still have a few Giller box wrenches and many PwrKraft (mostly metric) 3/8 and 1/4 drive sockets that I got from Thorsen facility here in Dallas back in the mid 70's.
That reject pile of tools could have been mfg in earlier years, but they all came from Thorsen.
really enjoying your thread-
Clayton
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According to a San Francisco State classmate of mine in the early 1970s, who worked for Thorsen in Emeryville, Thorsen's plant was very much worn down and dragged out when Thorsen won the contract to make PowrKraft tools for Montgomery Ward in 1970 or so. He also said that Thorsen was probably the last commercial maker of flat wrenches in the U S to forge wrenches one end at a time, and that this explained why same-part-number Thorsen wrenches varied so much in length . . . the blank length for any given run could be adjusted to get an extra wrench or two out of each 20-foot "stick" of barstock if necessary, and sometimes the last piece of the bar was of a different length than the previous pieces.
Thorsen was also unusually casual about slipping Thorsen-branded tools into Action (Thorsen's economy brand) and private-label-branded tool sets, even after the Dallas plant was operational. I bought Powr-Kraft socket and combination wrench sets in the early 1970s that contained several Thorsen-branded tools, and a set of Action 3/8 inch drive metric sockets (according to the hang card) in the late 1970s containing ONLY Thorsen-branded sockets. Other-label tools in Thorsen sets seemed to me to be rarer, but not unknown.
Also in the late 1970s, I bought a Herbrand 1/2 inch drive, 7/8 inch hex deep socket (again, according to the hang card) that was, in reality, an aircraft spark plug socket that had been double-stamped with both the Bonney and Thorsen names. When I noticed the erroneous markings, I went back to the store (a Gibson's discount store) and checked the remaining stock. No more double-stamping, but the half-dozen or so sockets on the peg were marked either Bonney or Thorsen.
It's pure speculation on my part, but I suspect that Triangle Tool (Bonney's parent company) subcontracted non-cataloged aircraft spark plug sockets to Thorsen, which shipped a mixture of Bonney-branded and Thorsen-branded sockets that, for some reason or another, Triangle decided to get rid of by packaging them under the name of their economy line, Herbrand.
I'll also speculate on the Kraeuter-branded combination wrench discussed earlier. By the late 1970s, Kraeuter was Dresser Industries' economy line of wrenches and sockets. Kraeuter-branded sockets and drivers were obviously badge-engineered S-Ks, but the flat wrenches were from distinctly different forgings. S-K flat wrenches of the time had "raised panel" shanks, the Kraeuter flat wrenches flat shanks. It seems entirely reasonable to me that Dresser / S-K might have contracted production of the Kraeuter-branded flat wrenches (and subcontracted production of Klein-branded flat wrenches, which Klein had contracted to Dresser / S-K) to Thorsen.
Next, after Dresser Industries sold their S-K Hand Tool business to Facom, in the early 1980s, S-K introduced a short-lived line of economical S-K branded tools that were generally stamped only with their size and an S-K-in-diamond brand. The economy model S-K ratchet was obviously a cross between a Facom mechanism and an S-K "Professional" ratchet body (These ratchets are relatively rare, and are often spoken of as the S-K Frankenstein ratchet because the shifter and pawl are combined into a side-to-side sliding bolt through the neck of the ratchet.) The sockets S-K supplied in the sets containing these ratchets were visibly different than their Chicago-made sockets (which were mostly still being screw-machined and broached), looking for all the world like the cold-formed sockets Thorsen manufactured in Dallas.
Still more . . . years ago I ran across a newspaper article that reported that Thorsen Tool had been unable to fulfill a U S government contract for sockets due to "teething pains" with their new manufacturing equipment, and that the government was forcing Thorsen to purchase sockets from other makers, at higher prices than Thorsen was selling them to the government, to meet their contractual obligation. I would not be surprised if the government's action was the proverbial "final straw" for Thorsen.
Finally, I have wondered for years if the Thorsen's Dallas plant became, after Thorsen's demise, the National Hand Tool Dallas plant that made Blackhawk-branded and Husky-branded mechanics tools after New Britain Machine sold off their tool business and shuttered the (North or South, I forget) Carolina factory.
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Hi John,
I've also noted the various lengths of Thorsen wrenches. At least two of their catalogs make reference to "short pattern" and "long pattern" wrenches (both having the same model number). Was their machining practice the result of their catalog offering, or was the catalog offering the result of the process?
I agree Thorsen had common practice of slipping "Thorsen" branded tools into Action tool sets. I've seen several examples where all of the tools within an Action set were Thorsen branded, and many examples with both Action and Thorsen branding within.
I have a "New Old Stock" set of Thorsen metric wrenches that dates to the 70's. They were pristine as was the packaging when received and were believably "NOS". The 10mm was branded "Kraeuter" with all others Thorsen. There are pictures of that set within this thread.
I have not once stopped to question what became of any of their factories. It would be interesting to know as a matter of fact.
Thorsen's USA production days do not date "that" far back, so I must believe there are folks around that could share the story first hand. It was be nice to hear from someone off the production line, a member of the management team, or from Roy's son again.
We appreciate you sharing your story here.
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In very good working condition; a Thorsen model 79 3/4" ratchet with removable drive plug.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6169_zpsa4ffcc1b.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6169_zpsa4ffcc1b.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6170_zps98d1e067.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6170_zps98d1e067.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6171_zpsf6f38aad.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6171_zpsf6f38aad.jpg.html)
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Love your latest additions, Oily. Could always tell those yellow with teal tipped Thorsen drivers from a mile away.
I forgot I had a Thorsen 6" slip-joint plier hanging in the shop.
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Mr. Bonneyman - I like the USA produced SJ-6. I have a USA SJ-8, but I believe my SJ-6 pair has a COO not so close to home. Thanks for sharing.
A Thorsen 064 slotted screwdriver (coming from JessEM). It cleaned up very nicely.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6173_zpsfddc317e.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6173_zpsfddc317e.jpg.html)
A 1/4" drive set (coming from Nolatoolguy). It is set 1411 of Dallas USA production, and brings forth evidence Thorsen was sold in at least ONE "Ace Hardware" store.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6172_zpsa102b19e.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6172_zpsa102b19e.jpg.html)
The elusive 1/2" drive model 77NR (with original plastic over handle). Not exactly common in this condition.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/b1afce5d-7969-4c32-b105-111dbaa2e93a_zps6c2a5f89.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/b1afce5d-7969-4c32-b105-111dbaa2e93a_zps6c2a5f89.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6175_zps762bffee.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6175_zps762bffee.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6176_zps7ce872ca.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6176_zps7ce872ca.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6177_zpsc88537ec.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6177_zpsc88537ec.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6178_zpsa2e8868c.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6178_zpsa2e8868c.jpg.html)
A Hex Key set - size 2 through 8.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6179_zps63cfa157.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6179_zps63cfa157.jpg.html)
and the oldest 77J 3/8" drive ratchet I've surfaced
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6180_zps5321d429.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6180_zps5321d429.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6182_zpsa178e43c.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6182_zpsa178e43c.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6183_zpsc74ea3c4.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6183_zpsc74ea3c4.jpg.html)
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Say, Oily, you have a much bigger Thorsen collection than I do. And I'm not married to that Thorsen slip joint. If you'd like it for your "family", PM me and we can work something out.
And don't worry. I have plenty of slip joint pliers......
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Say, Oily, you have a much bigger Thorsen collection than I do. And I'm not married to that Thorsen slip joint. If you'd like it for your "family", PM me and we can work something out.
And don't worry. I have plenty of slip joint pliers......
You're to kind, Mr. Bonney :)
PM inbound.
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Hey Oily,
You might want to update us on the seven or eight Thorsen tools that you DON'T have. Then we can all keep an eye out for them.
John
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:) John
You're right in that the most common Thorsen mechanical tools are already in the shop, or on the truck, working. There is still plenty "missing". I'm absolutely, positively, in search of a open gear 3/4" drive ratchet, "Block" Sockets (aka "Crow's Foot" wrenches), T handled sockets, "L" handled break-overs, any tool marked with "TT" in a circle, and there were also "L" type double socket wrenches. Any of those tools from USA production would have my immediate interest.
I've done well with representing the last 30 years of USA production. It is the first 30 years I still have a tremendous amount of work towards. The lack of reference catalogs is also a huge issue for me....no matter the vintage.
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On the subject of Thorsen pliers. A few below to share. All of them having hard evidence of shipment directly from Thorsen's Emeryville address, to the customer, on March 5th 1970.
7" Round Nose Looping Pliers - Model RN-7
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6303_zps7ca30f00.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6303_zps7ca30f00.jpg.html)
4" Flat Nose Pliers - Model FN-4
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6305_zpsf7debee7.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6305_zpsf7debee7.jpg.html)
8" Long Reach Duckbill Pliers - Model LDUS-8
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6306_zps8c6cf815.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6306_zps8c6cf815.jpg.html)
4" Diagonal Cutting Pliers - Model DP-4
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6307_zpsca7aa776.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6307_zpsca7aa776.jpg.html)
7" Diagonal Cutting Pliers - Model DP-7
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6308_zps30376740.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6308_zps30376740.jpg.html)
7" Lineman's Side Cutting Pliers - Model LP-7
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6309_zpsdacc93c8.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6309_zpsdacc93c8.jpg.html)
6" Long Channel Nose Pliers - Model LN-6
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6310_zps4f2fa9e3.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6310_zps4f2fa9e3.jpg.html)
6" Diagonal Cutting Pliers - Model DP-6
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6311_zps1cb2fc5f.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6311_zps1cb2fc5f.jpg.html)
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Hey those look good. 45 year old new old stock, hard to get better than that. john
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Hey those look good. 45 year old new old stock, hard to get better than that. john
They are about my age. I wish I had that few scuffs.
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Great bunch of cutters and pliers! Good job!
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Hey those look good. 45 year old new old stock, hard to get better than that. john
They are about my age. I wish I had that few scuffs.
Don't we all! lol
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A very unique Giller 77JC 3/8" drive ratchet. I have a Thorsen branded 77JC that is identical to it. These are the only two that I've seen. I'm curious to know if others have seen them, and if so in what form (stand alone, part of a set). My WAG is it was of limited production somewhere between 1965-1975.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/Giller77JC_zpsb6196a88.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/Giller77JC_zpsb6196a88.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6312_zps974989b6.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6312_zps974989b6.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6313_zpsfa9f900d.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6313_zpsfa9f900d.jpg.html)
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Thorsen model 301 brake spoon
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6349_zps961de4d0.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6349_zps961de4d0.jpg.html)
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My first Thorsen signage. Most likely from the early 60's, possibly as early as 1959. It would have displayed on a wire rack holding Thorsen tools. It came from an automotive store in California. The patent notation relates to the wire rack display itself.....granted to Lawton Shurtleff.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6380_zps2cd0df88.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6380_zps2cd0df88.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6381_zpse2d888ab.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6381_zpse2d888ab.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6382_zps242b9eda.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6382_zps242b9eda.jpg.html)
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Wonder if the rack fits into the thing in D181553 ?
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Wonder if the rack fits into the thing in D181553 ?
One does wonder, although I'm inclined to believe it is a later version of their display.
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Thorsen Model 2314 1/2" x 7/16" tappet wrench. My first of the tappet wrenches.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6388_zps70ff85c0.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6388_zps70ff85c0.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6389_zps462ae6aa.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6389_zps462ae6aa.jpg.html)
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A very unique Giller 77JC 3/8" drive ratchet. I have a Thorsen branded 77JC that is identical to it. These are the only two that I've seen. I'm curious to know if others have seen them, and if so in what form (stand alone, part of a set). My WAG is it was of limited production somewhere between 1965-1975.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/Giller77JC_zpsb6196a88.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/Giller77JC_zpsb6196a88.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6312_zps974989b6.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6312_zps974989b6.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6313_zpsfa9f900d.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6313_zpsfa9f900d.jpg.html)
OIly, I just dug up a Fleet Ratchet that looks a lot like your Giller/Thorsen. It's not in great working or cosmetic condition however.....BTW, my Thorsen pile got a little bigger last w/e and so did the Wizard...
DM&FS
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This 16 piece 1/4" drive set model #1416 complete with hard evidence of a 1968 production.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6613_zps10ac3970.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6613_zps10ac3970.jpg.html)
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Very good find. Lets see, in 1968, that $13 would be two full tanks of gas in a Lincoln! Things do change.
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ahh...flashback...68 Lincoln..long as the Exxon Valdiz, and cornered just about as well....
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where is the evidence?
This 16 piece 1/4" drive set model #1416 complete with hard evidence of a 1968 production.
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where is the evidence?
This 16 piece 1/4" drive set model #1416 complete with hard evidence of a 1968 production.
Bottom right drawer of my desk :)
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When did Thorsen go overseas production? sad
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Very good find. Lets see, in 1968, that $13 would be two full tanks of gas in a Lincoln! Things do change.
1968... $3.50 filled the tank of my Volkswagen.
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This certainly dispels the theory Thorsen was the exclusive maker of Giller tools.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/GillerCM43Ratchet_zpsb49caff2.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/GillerCM43Ratchet_zpsb49caff2.jpg.html)
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This certainly dispels the theory Thorsen was the exclusive maker of Giller tools.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/GillerCM43Ratchet_zpsb49caff2.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/GillerCM43Ratchet_zpsb49caff2.jpg.html)
That ratchet head looks New Britain to me.
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Has anyone come across the Thorsen "Value Line" sockets? I got some Friday in an estate sale here in town. they say made in the USA on them and are all metric 3/8" and 1/4" drives. I think they all originally came in the Dark Gray plastic case, but not sure if the 3/8" Thorslen-made PK ratchet was part of the package or not. The next load of photos are t-series PK that presumably was made by Thorsen, but in Asia or here in the US??.
Also both Powr Kraft Ratchets in the other boxes had like 5 digit numbers and a really small t behind them, but the sockets were a mix of the t-series and the 84H series Powr Krafts from New Britain or Wright. Have no time line on any of this. The 1968 number is good to know in the future though!!
DM&FS
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Here are some pix of the t-series stuff
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..and finally the 84H stuff from Wright or whomever... they do all look a lot alike....grand total of about $18 on this stash....the 84H stuff is worth that.....
DM&FS
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Oily,
Your 16 pc set is a gold mine. I've always wondered how late these open head ratchets were sold and when the round heads replaced them.
So if your proof is solid, that moves the date out to at least 1968. Do you have any kind of a rough time line of the Thorsen ratchets?
Thanks for sharing your find. A complete set in the original box with documantation included is a rare find indeed.
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A 16oz Thorsen USA hammer. I would guess the handle is modified from original. It seems awfully short for a 16oz ball pein.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6623_zps2172dc61.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6623_zps2172dc61.jpg.html)
Thorsen PW-10 pipe wrench - 10". Just noticed the slight bend in the handle as I was taking the picture.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6624_zpsc9383038.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6624_zpsc9383038.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6625_zps24c4f6dc.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6625_zps24c4f6dc.jpg.html)
and a few NOS Thorsen 77MC 1/4" drive closed head ratchets. 4-7/8" long, and 3.2oz. These will help in completing sets already owned.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6626_zpse54bcdb0.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6626_zpse54bcdb0.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6627_zps8cbb37bf.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/CIMG6627_zps8cbb37bf.jpg.html)
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Never pass up a wooden baseball bat at a yard sale. They are made of clear hammer handle hickory and very well seasoned.
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Is that your first hammer? How about the pipe wrench? Did all that stuff come from the same place? The story, man. The story!
Well done!
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OI was thinking htat some bats were made of ash too, but I'm not a baseball guru.......lol
YMMV and Happy Thanksgiving, all!!!
DM&FS
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Well seasoned hickory is listed as one of the best available fire woods....just saying....
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Well seasoned hickory is listed as one of the best available fire woods....just saying....
Yeah, sometimes listed as THE best. But you burn hickory around me at your own hazard. Tool handle wood is to precious to burn. Pecan is probably about as good, and since it is not flexible, useless for handles.
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I grabbed this wrench because I couln't remember if I'd gotten one before. It's kind of like when you type or write the word "of" and when you look at it, it just doesn't look right, did you spell it right?? It just doesn't look right, though you know it is. One of those moments. Anyway, if it's a duplicate, it's going in the pile anyway:)
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/Thorsen2026_zps231f0b9c.jpg) (http://s301.photobucket.com/user/kxxr/media/tools/Thorsen2026_zps231f0b9c.jpg.html)
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Oily,
................. Do you have any kind of a rough time line of the Thorsen ratchets?..............
I'm trying, and I'm being very aggressive with this project! Rough time line, heh? - first came those with plugs, then those open head ratchets with no cover (not chromed), then that little cover over the open-head (and chromed), then the closed head.....with variants, over-lapping production timelines, and exceptions in between and everywhere. With over 40 unique Thorsen USA production ratchets (and the number keeps growing) I'm finding it a challenge. "Free" research material for Thorsen Tool Co. is few, leaving me to personally acquire material and be creative with approach/methods.
I have made progress, but I just don't have a meaningful factual story - YET.
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OIly, I think you should search out old Thorsen Tool Factory workers(if any are still alive) and see what they say. might they have an FB page???? Inquiring minds wanna know.......
DM&FS
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OIly, I think you should search out old Thorsen Tool Factory workers(if any are still alive) and see what they say. might they have an FB page???? Inquiring minds wanna know.......
DM&FS
I've always struggled with why the membership here doesn't have larger participation from those who worked in the factories. They made the tools we love.................global statement not specific to Thorsen.
Obits. and newspaper articles mentioning those working there are most certainly accounts I seek. Matter of fact I groped information yesterday from an alumni article (what'd you do after graduation) that puts Thorsen in Dallas as early as 1973. FB is a thought. Would have also been real nice to have established regular contact with Roy Shurtleff's son (who posted in this thread).
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Oily,
................. Do you have any kind of a rough time line of the Thorsen ratchets?..............
I'm trying, and I'm being very aggressive with this project! Rough time line, heh? - first came those with plugs, then those open head ratchets with no cover (not chromed), then that little cover over the open-head (and chromed), then the closed head.....with variants, over-lapping production timelines, and exceptions in between and everywhere. With over 40 unique Thorsen USA production ratchets (and the number keeps growing) I'm finding it a challenge. "Free" research material for Thorsen Tool Co. is few, leaving me to personally acquire material and be creative with approach/methods.
I have made progress, but I just don't have a meaningful factual story - YET.
Oily,
I wasn't really looking for a model number by model number timeline; more at a general design timeline:
Open round head with or without cover,
Closed round head, and
Box head import.
This would be a good starting point.
Regarding your new shorty BP hammer-- It's always good to have one short BP in your hammer arsenal. There are times when nothing else will do....
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Well seasoned hickory is listed as one of the best available fire woods....just saying....
Yeah, sometimes listed as THE best. But you burn hickory around me at your own hazard. Tool handle wood is to precious to burn. Pecan is probably about as good, and since it is not flexible, useless for handles.
All of my life I've understood Pecan to be of the Hickory species. I suppose I should look now for facts.
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I grabbed this wrench because I couln't remember if I'd gotten one before. It's kind of like when you type or write the word "of" and when you look at it, it just doesn't look right, did you spell it right?? It just doesn't look right, though you know it is. One of those moments. Anyway, if it's a duplicate, it's going in the pile anyway:)
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn48/kxxr/tools/Thorsen2026_zps231f0b9c.jpg) (http://s301.photobucket.com/user/kxxr/media/tools/Thorsen2026_zps231f0b9c.jpg.html)
I have a metric set of those combos going. Thorsen and Action. Most have the beautiful "MFG USA" inscribed on 'em. Now need a 15, 16, and 18mm to complete my set.
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[quote author=lauver link=topic=5307.msg62981#msg62981 date=1386702492
Oily,
I wasn't really looking for a model number by model number timeline; more at a general design timeline:
Open round head with or without cover,
Closed round head, and
Box head import.
This would be a good starting point.
Regarding your new shorty BP hammer-- It's always good to have one short BP in your hammer arsenal. There are times when nothing else will do....
[/quote]
I can say this (factually). I know the open head/gear ratchet was being produced as late as 1968. I also know the most modern round closed head ratchet was being produced as early as 1972. Thorsen produced a round head ratchet before they produced those stylish open head designs. They produced a removable plug style, round head, ratchet even before that. I know the early (2nd generation) round head ratchet (fixed not removable plug) was available as early as 1931.
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I can say this (factually). I know the open head/gear ratchet was being produced as late as 1968. I also know the most modern round closed head ratchet was being produced as early as 1972. Thorsen produced a round head ratchet before they produced those stylish open head designs. They produced a removable plug style, round head, ratchet even before that. I know the early (2nd generation) round head ratchet (fixed not removable plug) was available as early as 1931.
Thanks Oily. I did not know that Thosen produced early versions of the enclosed round head. I guess I've never run across these in the wild; must be fairly rare.
Any clue when the open head ratchets first appeared? I noticed the 1958 Thorsen Brochure/Pricelist I sent you a copy of mentioned "The All-New Thorsen Ratchet" and it's features (i.e. open head design... simplicity). Included in this brochure/pricelist were ratchet models 77M, 77J, 77, 77NR, and 79. Could 1958 have been the introduction of the open head design? If so, that would be a fairly short run, ca. 1958-1968 (perhaps a little later).
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Thanks Oily. I did not know that Thosen produced early versions of the enclosed round head. I guess I've never run across these in the wild; must be fairly rare.
Any clue when the open head ratchets first appeared? I noticed the 1958 Thorsen Brochure/Pricelist I sent you a copy of mentioned "The All-New Thorsen Ratchet" and it's features (i.e. open head design... simplicity). Included in this brochure/pricelist were ratchet models 77M, 77J, 77, 77NR, and 79. Could 1958 have been the introduction of the open head design? If so, that would be a fairly short run, ca. 1958-1968 (perhaps a little later).
There are issues I have with dating the start of the open head design in 1958. 1) I have surfaced a 1955 brochure that also has the open head ratchet included in chrome form and with a "dust cover". 2) I have examples of the open head 77 ratchet that pre-dates the introduction of chroming AND the dust cover. It is fair to say at least TWO improvements were made to that ratchet; the cover over the open head, and chrome plating. I can't even conclude the "The All New Ratchet" marketing found in the 1958 literature was covering an improvement I've discussed here (again, I have a 1955 showing chrome and a cover).
Link to thread with 1955 brochure download.
http://www.papawswrench.com/vboard/index.php?topic=9680.0
This is the early 3/8" drive 77J open head design that pre-dates chroming and the dust cover.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1151591_zpscfa7fa7e.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1151591_zpscfa7fa7e.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1152081_zps3bc3cf92.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1152081_zps3bc3cf92.jpg.html)
This is an early round head 3/4" drive Thorsen ratchet (with removable drive plug) I have.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1142001_zpsf71b302b.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1142001_zpsf71b302b.jpg.html)
And lastly, there is this early ratchet which is marked 77JA. It is of the open head design, no original chroming, and with a fixed 9/16" socket. It is unclear to me if this was a specialty ratchet, or if it was ONE within the timeline of their ratchet's progression. I will say that of the four 77A ratchets I've seen (and I own two of them) they were all of the 9/16" size. Which leads me to believe it was a specialty socket versus a situation where multiple size fixed sockets were available in this ratchet design. I hope that makes sense.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1152271_zpsc8b0c880.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1152271_zpsc8b0c880.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1152421_zpsdc538163.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1152421_zpsdc538163.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1152501_zpse429d786.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131214_1152501_zpse429d786.jpg.html)
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Oily,
Thanks for your thoughts on the open head design ratchets. And mucho thanks to the link with the 1955 partial catalog download; a new to me document.
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Hi, yeah the Thorsen open head design goes back to mid thirties, I've seen it in a Thorsen 38-39 cat. and I'm pretty sure I remember seeing contract Thorsen made open head ratchets in an earlier (36?) General Tool (of Portland OR) catalog.
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mr.x,
Do you have any early Thorsen catalogs (pre-1950)? If so, there is much interest here on this thread. We have many questions and fewer answers.
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I tried downloading the PDF but will not accept the ASK tool bar and all the other BS that goes with it. :o{
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I tried downloading the PDF but will not accept the ASK tool bar and all the other BS that goes with it. :o{
Interesting - I don't have THAT issue. PM me your email address and I'll send it to you as an attachment.
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Lauver, almost all of my old tool stuff, including catalogs is on the other side of the country. I probably have a half dozen pictures from the 38 Thorsen somewhere on my computer. I remember that cat. cause it has a drawing of the Bay bridge on the front, which had only been finished late in 36 and I was trying to imagine what a HUGE difference that would make for someone going back and forth from the Thorsen retail store on Bush St in (downtown)SF to the Emeryville factory which is just about a mile from that IKEA on the East( Oakland) end of the bridge. Anyway, If I can find the pictures I'll post them or worst case, I'll send them to someone who can.
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Lauver, almost all of my old tool stuff, including catalogs is on the other side of the country. I probably have a half dozen pictures from the 38 Thorsen somewhere on my computer. I remember that cat. cause it has a drawing of the Bay bridge on the front, which had only been finished late in 36 and I was trying to imagine what a HUGE difference that would make for someone going back and forth from the Thorsen retail store on Bush St in (downtown)SF to the Emeryville factory which is just about a mile from that IKEA on the East( Oakland) end of the bridge. Anyway, If I can find the pictures I'll post them or worst case, I'll send them to someone who can.
Any assistance with a better understanding of the early days would be very much appreciated.
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circa late 1950's - a Thorsen wire rack display that would hook onto a pegboard.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131221_133131_zpsac6bbf26.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20131221_133131_zpsac6bbf26.jpg.html)
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circa late 1950's - a Thorsen wire rack display that would hook onto a pegboard.
That is really nice. Great display, thanks for sharing.
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i have an action 77ja that looks like a thorsen
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And the family is together at last. The 3/4" drive Thorsen 79 open gear ratchet.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140529_192348_zpsc53e69d1.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140529_192348_zpsc53e69d1.jpg.html)
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Big score there OR......
DM&FS
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Nice, real nice, that 3/4 looks huge!
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i have an action 77ja that looks like a thorsen
Action tools were made by Thorsen. Action was a Thorsen brand.
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Read somewhere that Giller was the "contract " brand from Thorsen ie. military/industrial etc. Just a rumor though...
DM&FS
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And the family is together at last. The 3/4" drive Thorsen 79 open gear ratchet.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140529_192348_zpsc53e69d1.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140529_192348_zpsc53e69d1.jpg.html)
Dang nice family pic!
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A view of the 3/4" ratchets together:
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_155227_zps6b36f73f.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_155227_zps6b36f73f.jpg.html)
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The "DoAll" 14 piece set in Metric - Model DABOE-14mm
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_160720_zps9231d76d.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_160720_zps9231d76d.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_160725_zps128fa2b3.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_160725_zps128fa2b3.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_160731_zps2b043655.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_160731_zps2b043655.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_160737_zps737447be.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_160737_zps737447be.jpg.html)
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Had I seen this in the wild, alone without packaging, there is no way I would have known it.
Thorsen's Carbon-Removing Tools. A set of three; Roto-Clipper, Roto-Pick, and Roto-Scaper
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161232_zpsefd5b2e1.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161232_zpsefd5b2e1.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161238_zps7a0038f8.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161238_zps7a0038f8.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161242_zpsaa955140.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161242_zpsaa955140.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161251_zpsc09e2d11.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161251_zpsc09e2d11.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161300_zps04bf29d9.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161300_zps04bf29d9.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161307_zps8eda9d43.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20140823_161307_zps8eda9d43.jpg.html)
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This is Thorsen's display board model B70. The tools displayed are all of metric size. This board coming from a Craigslist advert. some time ago, and that JohnK help facilitate. Thank you, John.
This is the damage I could do in about an hour finding matches.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150121_195704_zps221e424a.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150121_195704_zps221e424a.jpg.html)
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nice start on your board, the fun is in the hunt for the rest of the missing tools, good luck.
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I saw that you have a couple of Tatools in the mix and was wondering why, until It dawned on me, maybe that's who made the Asian Thorsens. Can I assume that is correct?
bill
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I saw that you have a couple of Tatools in the mix and was wondering why, until It dawned on me, maybe that's who made the Asian Thorsens. Can I assume that is correct?
bill
Hi Bill. I don't generally fool around with or have interest in Tatools, and you certainly shouldn't be seeing any in the mix with that board. I do have one Tatools socket set, coming from Dimwittedmoose, that I retain.
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What I was refering to was early on in this thread and after looking back it was an extention. Is/Was there any connection between the two?
bill
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Ah great the board made it without being folded spindled, etc. Will have the matching one coming soon.
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What I was refering to was early on in this thread and after looking back it was an extention. Is/Was there any connection between the two?
bill
Hi again, Bill. "Tatools" was/is short for "Thorsen Allied Tools". It was one of Thorsen's branding for off-shore production. They also branded "Allied" alone.
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I really like the looks of those open-geared ratchets. They are VERY handsome tools! I imagine they're hell to keep clean in greasy, dirty working conditions though.
I doubt there's anything special about 'em... but I have most of a set of Thorsen 1/2" Deep well sockets in their metal case. They're all Thorsen, but I think it might still be a mis-matched set. The 7/8ths socket stamp is upside-down compared to the rest. While the 1/2, and 5/8ths sockets have entirely different stamping styles on them.
Anyway, if anything catches your eye, lemme know, wouldn't mind terribly parting with them.
(http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q226/Midnight_Fenrir/Tool%20Pron/IMG_20150128_190156_zpsmegaaz1v.jpg)
(http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q226/Midnight_Fenrir/Tool%20Pron/IMG_20150128_190245_zps95dbfcw7.jpg)
(http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q226/Midnight_Fenrir/Tool%20Pron/IMG_20150128_190330_zpskogoihg7.jpg)
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Hi Twilight. It appears to me circa 60's, and I believe the following stamping is correct:
"Thorsen" over
"MFD USA"
I would suggest the 1/2 and 5/8 were replaced at some point (with a newer style).
Nice set. If it ever needs a home I would be happy to strike a deal of some nature with you.
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Oily Update: dude, I scored some misc Thorsen stuff including a small metal socket box with""Thorsen Allied" embossed on the lid.
I'll send you a photo of he stash so far on FB. Not quite enough for shipping yet though....unless you can't "wait".....lol
DM&FS
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This is the 3/8" Drive version, of about the same vintage, of the deep set; Set 3809-DP
Note the style and construct of the stampings.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150129_171151_zps55262b10.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150129_171151_zps55262b10.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150129_171156_zps3c7d1810.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150129_171156_zps3c7d1810.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150129_171206_zps9e7f7964.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150129_171206_zps9e7f7964.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150129_171212_zpsee54750a.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150129_171212_zpsee54750a.jpg.html)
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Just found this forum and was happy to find this thread. I have my Grand fathers Thorsens and grew up using them They are still great tools that I am using professionally. Most people don't know about them or have no respect for them,boy are they missing out.
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Welcome to the forum, Steed. Please do share what you have. Tools from family always mean more to me.
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Anticipating the upcoming move, I have the Thorsen boards out and about. There is now a total of 7 boards. Here are two more of them.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150201_130252_zps140cc141.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150201_130252_zps140cc141.jpg.html)
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150201_130311_zps6c7151aa.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150201_130311_zps6c7151aa.jpg.html)
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That's pretty cool. Hoping at least a cople of my finds will make it to those boards!! Will keep looking for the missing links too.
DM&FS
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thanks for showing the tool boards, yes, they take up some room, but it helps to keep track
of what you have, and what you need at a glance.
if you are in a room or building, and you hear "Thorsen" do you come alive ???
it's strange how we hear what we want to at times.
happy collecting.
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if you are in a room or building, and you hear "Thorsen" do you come alive ???
Are you kidding? You can't type "Thorsen" without my hearing it :)
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This is board B38; a mixture of 3/8 and 1/4" drive tools. I'm near certain I have all to fill this board (in NOS form with price tags thanks to Dimwitted), but I'm lacking some of the smaller metal pins to hold them. Somewhere I have a ziplock bag full of those pins.
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150203_053217_zpsdec3122c.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150203_053217_zpsdec3122c.jpg.html)
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Interesting thread,oily.
Here's my contribution.Ive not seen another box like this one.
My boss was in the Navy in the late '80's and this is a box of sockets they equipped him with to perform his duties as a welder.
He used mostly Thorsen and Kal tools on the ship.
When he left the Navy,he brought this box and other tools home with him.
I acquired the box from him,as I really like the design,especially the latches,and intended to put some sort of socket set in it. Probably not a Thorsen,as I wasn't interested in the brand at the time.
Since then,I made a trade with my boss and acquired the sockets that probably came in this box,with a few missing and a few split.
The cool part to me,is the paper label still attached to the lid.
Thought this might be of interest to you,if you've never ran across one.
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Padlock latches?
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Padlock latches?
Looks like it,or maybe for some kind of pin or clip to avoid accidental opening while carrying it.
Its quite a substantial box just to hold a set of deep 1/2" drive sockets.
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Interesting thread,oily.
Here's my contribution.Ive not seen another box like this one.
My boss was in the Navy in the late '80's and this is a box of sockets they equipped him with to perform his duties as a welder.
He used mostly Thorsen and Kal tools on the ship.
When he left the Navy,he brought this box and other tools home with him.
I acquired the box from him,as I really like the design,especially the latches,and intended to put some sort of socket set in it. Probably not a Thorsen,as I wasn't interested in the brand at the time.
Since then,I made a trade with my boss and acquired the sockets that probably came in this box,with a few missing and a few split.
The cool part to me,is the paper label still attached to the lid.
Thought this might be of interest to you,if you've never ran across one.
That interesting for a Thorsen branded box. Thanks for sharing.
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This is Thorsen's display board B86:
(http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p534/alphinde/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150209_180510_zps08c1b81b.jpg) (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/alphinde/media/Tools%20Talk/Thorsen%20Tools%20Collection/20150209_180510_zps08c1b81b.jpg.html)
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Oily. That display board is really coming along, looks like only 4 to go. Lets us know what you need and I'll have a look.
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Lacking two on the B86 board: Model 2046 which is 1-1/8" Combination wrench, and Model 3014 which is a double open end 7/16" x 1/2"
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I was nosing around the internet and found a 2007 obit for Mr David Joseph Giller. It didn't have much to say about the tool business other than to state that after his service in WWII, Mr Giller landed in Dallas, Texas and "founded the Giller Tool Company, which became a successful supplier for fulfilment of government contracts". A bit more looking around lead me to the "Corporation Wiki" which offered this bit of trivia: Giller Tool Corporation filed as a Domestic For-Profit Corporation in the State of Texas on Thursday, September 25, 1952. This corporation is no longer active according to documents filed with Texas Secretary of State.
For what it is worth, I thought this a good place to make note of these tidbits ;) Not new info, just a couple of specifics for the time line.
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I don't find much on our local Craigslist that interests me. Usually it is way over priced or it is junk, even by my standards, which are pretty liberal I think. Anyway, I spotted these yesterday. I thought sure there must be something wrong as they had been listed for about 3 weeks. I figured they had really nasty owners marks or some other problem, but they sure looked nice in the picture that was posted. I thought $40 was a fair price, not a steal, but it seemed reasonable to me so I didn't dicker. It looks like the 15 and 19 might have been used a time or two, but the others are in new condition. They were stuffed into an 8 piece "Thorsen II" Dallas,Texas 8 piece plastic wrench pouch with the black and green(?) art work, but I don't that is the original package. I'll post a shot of the pouch later. I went through the whole thread and didn't see any of these posted. Are they 70s vintage, Oily?
The forum gnomes made me reduce the file size to 250kb or less, so I lost a lot of detail. I’ll put it on photobucket later when I have some spare time.
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$3.64 each, that is a bargain for those clean wrenches. enjoy.
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I picked up a 1/2 inch combination wrench with the raised panel. Per AA the raised panel with the v shaped depressions were shown in the 1991 catalog.
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The tools I acquired recently included a Thorsen 1/2 universal (swivel) adapter. Unfortunately cracked. There was also a 4" extension for 1/2 drive but it was made in Taiwan. Probably no one is interested in Thorsen if made in Taiwan?
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Hello, Guys. Nice collections of Thorsen Tools!!! Regards, Lou
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Thank you, Lou
3 years with no activity on this thread is long enough. I will did out some fresh NOS loot and share.
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This is set # MC-12. It is a 12 piece metric combination wrench set with 8mm-19mm. It represents in NOS condition the last of Thorsen's USA production. Note the double model numbers on the wrenches as they migrated to a new model number construct.
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Nice!
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Those look real nice, always admired that raised panel. 3 years is too long, glad you stopped by.
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In the 1980-90's I worked at Ford Tractor dealers as a mechanic. The dealers sold Thorsen tools. When I started as a Ford mechanic my boss was very supportive of my career. One of his suggestions was to buy better tools than the Thorsens sold at the parts counter. Some of the guys would buy Thorsens if the tool they were using at the time broke or wore out.
So this is not to say that Thorsen tools are not good. Some of the above ratchets look pretty solid to me. But to this day I do not have any Thorsen tools, mostly due to the advice of my shop manager.
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What state was the dealership in? I reckon I would be of the same opinion if these tools were for my trade/living. I wouldn't buy a Kobalt or Ridgid router for my work tools.....Makita has a much better duty cycle.
In the 1980-90's I worked at Ford Tractor dealers as a mechanic. The dealers sold Thorsen tools. When I started as a Ford mechanic my boss was very supportive of my career. One of his suggestions was to buy better tools than the Thorsens sold at the parts counter. Some of the guys would buy Thorsens if the tool they were using at the time broke or wore out.
So this is not to say that Thorsen tools are not good. Some of the above ratchets look pretty solid to me. But to this day I do not have any Thorsen tools, mostly due to the advice of my shop manager.
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This is set number 3809DP - a 9 piece 3/8" drive deep socket set with 3/8-13/16. These are Thorsen branded tools produced under Wallace Murry ownership.
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I worked at Caldwell Tractor in Fairfield NJ, then at Deveaux Ford in Syracuse NY.
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This is the Thorsen 3/4" drive drawer these days.
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Some Thorsen goodies.
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Thorsen display boards and a combination 1/4 & 3/8 ratchet with a pickle fork on the end of the handle (alligator wrench), are listed on eBay now, separate listings.
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Nice to see some updates to this thread.
-Don
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I like that "Yankee Doodle" special :grin:
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Thanks. Thorsen’s take on the metric revolution included in that set is kind of amusing.
-Don
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They did not seem outwardly fond of the metric system - almost to the point of critical of it.
I welcome you to join the FB version of this thread. https://www.facebook.com/groups/608023045995532
PS - I have two of the same set - one without the insert, and the other with - so at least 3 survived :smiley:
Derek
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Thanks for the invite but I’m not on Facebook. I did look through it and it was interesting. My Wife goes on sometimes to check for pictures of the grandkids. If anybody is interested here is a link to a now inactive photo album with pictures of my Thorsen tools as of 2019.
http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/showgallery.php?cat=4329
-Don
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Thank you! I enjoyed the tour, and I especially enjoyed the picture of the young man getting his "red box special". I assume this was you. Thanks for sharing.
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This is the Thorsen "Coast to Coast" socket set.
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Thank you! I enjoyed the tour, and I especially enjoyed the picture of the young man getting his "red box special". I assume this was you. Thanks for sharing.
My pleasure. That was the awkward 15 yr old me receiving my first toolset at Christmas in 1964. I’ve kind of been on the lookout for that exact set but haven’t run across one yet. I still have a few of the pieces, amazingly.
-Don
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I think it is fair to say whoever made Thorsen's carbon scraper also made Proto's version of the same. The Proto LA being NOS and coming from a store visit today.
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My pleasure. That was the awkward 15 yr old me receiving my first toolset at Christmas in 1964. I’ve kind of been on the lookout for that exact set but haven’t run across one yet. I still have a few of the pieces, amazingly.
-Don
Do you still have the box? The closest I have seen a red box to that size is the yankee doodle special. 3/8" drive set?
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The Thorsen-Allied rubber coated adjustable wrench set. I have several 10", but I am missing the 10" with a rubber coating.
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My first round shank Thorsen wrench. It is model # 1616 - double boxed end offset 9/16 x 1/2
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My pleasure. That was the awkward 15 yr old me receiving my first toolset at Christmas in 1964. I’ve kind of been on the lookout for that exact set but haven’t run across one yet. I still have a few of the pieces, amazingly.
-Don
Do you still have the box? The closest I have seen a red box to that size is the yankee doodle special. 3/8" drive set?
3/8” and 1/4” drive. I have no idea where the box ended up.
-Don
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3/8” and 1/4” drive. I have no idea where the box ended up.
-Don
This is a 1963 advertisement for a 3/8" and 1/4" drive "Red Box Special"
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Thanks for posting the ad. The lower set is pretty close except my set included deep 3/8” drive sockets.
I found this USN marked 8 point on eBay recently.
-Don
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This ad is from 1965, and includes deep sockets in a 3/8" and 1/4" drive RBS - no photo or illustration.
I have to wonder the occasion for USN markings. I realize they were for the Navy, but for no more than I have seen I don't think every tool going to the Navy was marked USN.
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Sometimes tools are Navy marked and sometimes they aren’t. I have a WW2 Navy NAF toolbox full of various WW2 aircraft related tools. Here are some Thorsen sockets with Quartermaster Corps markings. Thorsen was apparently a fairly small player in the world of WW2 tool suppliers.
Thanks for the Red Box Special ad. That has to be my set.
-Don
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I have not seen the Quartermaster markings before. Thanks for sharing that. Now I have something else to be on the lookout for.
I ran across this Thorsen box last night. She would not entertain the notion of shipping. Price is right if you know somebody near to help.
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/803809097164866
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That might be the set but unfortunately I don’t know anyone in Kansas. Here is another USN marked socket.
-Don
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I found but 1 USN marked too I. My whole Thorsen collection. We do have a airforce base fairly close.
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This is wrench set PC-10 of the Emeryville CA production (and Oakland CA advertised) era. "Our Price $3.29"
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Unfortunately the “Our Price” area is obliterated on my DOE set pouch. Maybe the retailer decided that the price shown was a little too low.
-Don
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Since we have been on the discussion of "Emeryville, CA" marked Thorsen tools.
Save your knuckles
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Unfortunately the “Our Price” area is obliterated on my DOE set pouch. Maybe the retailer decided that the price shown was a little too low.
-Don
But still - that vinyl pouch :)
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Looking at the image on Google Maps, there may be some building going on at the former factory site. The second picture I took in 2019 and the site was pretty deserted.
-Don
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whole bunch of Thorsen catalogs now available at International Tool Catalog Library for your reading enjoyment!
https://archive.org/details/internationaltoolcataloglibrary?query=four.cycle&sort=-publicdate
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Since I’m always looking for my childhood red box special set, I immediately grabbed this when I spotted it at a local estate sale yesterday. After a little cleaning, I started going through spares and added them to the set. There is still some fine tuning to be done but it’s coming along. It’s slightly different than my original set but pretty close.
-Don
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I completed the set above but it wasn’t the configuration of the original. I bought a set on eBay that was a match to my original from 1964. I cleaned it up today and added the missing spinner.
-Don
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I always feel a sense of accomplishment when I fill in a spot on a set.
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pretty cool,is that you in the old photo?
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Yep. I was 15. It was my first socket set.
-Don