Tool Talk

Wrench Forum => Wrench Forum => Topic started by: Wrenchmensch on June 20, 2011, 02:40:47 PM

Title: Smaller Vandegrift wrench - Johnstone Harvester Company
Post by: Wrenchmensch on June 20, 2011, 02:40:47 PM

I found this small, 6 7/8", Vandegrift farm equipment wrench in the jumble of a country junk shop in rural Maryland. It's stamped JHCO, which lies within a rectangular border.  The wrench is so small, the Pat. data are printed on two sides. The upper jaw is stamped "18", and the inside of the handle has "15" embossed near the main body of the wrench. This is the only Johnstone Harvester wrench of this kind I have seen.

Are these more common to the west of here (Eastern PA)?

Title: Re: Smaller Vandegrift wrench - Johnstone Harvester Company
Post by: stanley62 on June 20, 2011, 04:36:57 PM

Nice find.  Same patent as the one I just found, just a little different casting.

Jim

Title: Re: Smaller Vandegrift wrench - Johnstone Harvester Company
Post by: Bus on June 20, 2011, 06:10:22 PM

J. H. Co. stands for Johnston Harvester Co, of Batavia, NY. Massey-Harris took control in 1917. See Rathbone Book One page 272 and Vol Two page 151.

Nice find. I've sold a couple 8-1/2" long ones on Wrenching News Auctions but never a 6-7/8".

Title: Re: Smaller Vandegrift wrench - Johnstone Harvester Company
Post by: dimwittedmoose51 on June 20, 2011, 08:22:17 PM

I should check and see if I have one that short.  It may be closer to the 9" size though.  I know I have one or two that have that style handle on them.

DM&FS

Title: Re: Smaller Vandegrift wrench - Johnstone Harvester Company
Post by: Bus on June 22, 2011, 05:58:08 AM

Quote from: dimwittedmoose51 on June 20, 2011, 08:22:17 PM

I should check and see if I have one that short.  It may be closer to the 9" size though.  I know I have one or two that have that style handle on them.

You might find ones with the patent only markings but I would be surprised if you find one with the J. H. Co. imprint. That's what make's Wrenchmensch's wrench so rare.