Ratchet handle for use interchangeably with socket wrenches having coupling means of different sizes

摘要

A ratchet handle for use with socket wrenches includes a socket engaging projection on which socket wrenches having a first size of coupling socket can be mounted for turning by the handle. The handle includes a bar slidable within the projection and movable from a position within the projection to a second position with its end extending axially beyond the projection. Socket wrenches having a second and smaller size of coupling socket are mounted on the handle by engagement with the extended end of the bar. The bar is retained in either of two positions by spring pressed balls or detents which engage two shallow recesses in the projection in one position and in the extended position of the bar one of the detents lies outside the projection in position to engage a socket coupling mounted thereon. In another embodiment the bar is biased by a compression spring to its position within the projection and a cam on the bar urges a detent outwardly to retain the larger socket on the projection. A spring pressed detent at the end of the bar holds a smaller socket in place when the bar is in its extended position and the spring then has sufficient force to hold the bar in its extended position against the opposing force of the compression spring.