SK Ratchet Diamond logo

[swervncarz]

I picked up this neat SK ratchet for $1 at a yard sale, which i was very exited about. Never had one like this before so it quickly caught my eye. It's 3/8" drive with a swivel head. Marked 3870 SK (in diamond) USA. I looked them up on Ebay and there are a few, they seem to sell for a decent dollar too. All on Ebay are marked different, some say SK Wayne, some just SK, none inside diamond like mine. If I am correct, the diamond logo is older than the others. Can anyone tell me a date range when these were made?

[bonneyman]

That's the famous "roto-head" ratchet. Retails for around $80.
They were introduced in 1962-63, and Symington Wayne bought S-K in 1962 but didn't start putting Wayne on the tools until 1964. So, you've got one off the earliest examples of that ratchet.

And you only paid a buck? You suck!lol

[swervncarz]

Thanks for the info.... One more question, should the head "lock" in certain positions? Right now it is loose & moves freely. not sure if it is supposed to stay in position ot if it's made to move free.

[mikeswrenches]

I've seen them in the 1/2 in. Size and I have what I think is an Asian version in 1/4 in. drive.  None of them locked.

Mike

[fflintstone]

$1 is a steal despite the poor condition of the chrome. I don't know about $80, but they do tend to go for stupid money on ebay.
I bought one for $7 and one for $15. I see them often for around $25.
they do not lock in any position.
I have only seen 3/8 drive.
they are a truly great useful ratchet and I use mine often. most people buy them to use them.

[bonneyman]

You can probably shim the rotator head a bit so it will hold it's own weight.
Remove the allen head screw in the neck. Then the top cradle will separate, and you can remove the gear head and get in there and clean, oil, and put a thin shim to tighten 'er up.

[mrchuck]

I have "squeezed" the head in a vise and tightened up the rotate part.

[dimwittedmoose51]

I gave $10 for mine, but it's a Wayner.....with patent number.........  Will have to use it someday.....

DM&FS

[bonneyman]

I get alot of smokin deals on used tools, but, bud....you've left me smoldering on the starting line with this find. I still can't get over it.
A roto-head ratchet for a buck!

[rusty]

>I have "squeezed" the head ...

From the patent description, there are 2 flat spring washers , one on each side of the head that provide friction when the head is squeezed between them (distorting them). The slot in the handle has a hand selected spacer washer in it that sets the final tension on the ball head.