The Story of Vlchek [Page 2]

Alloy Steel Tappet Wrenches

By the nature of their application, tappet wrenches need to have small thin heads, and this places a great deal of stress on the tools. These wrenches require very strong steel, and so tappet wrenches were one of the first applications for alloy steels.

Vlchek's standard alloy for tappet wrenches was chrome molybdenum steel, and the catalogs continued to specify chrome molybdenum steel for tappet wrenches as late as 1952.

"Parabolic" Tappet Wrenches

The next several figures show examples of Vlchek's 9x series of tappet wrenches in the parabolic head style.

90 7/16x1/2 Tappet Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 44. Vlchek 90 7/16x1/2 Tappet Wrench, ca. Late 1920s to Mid 1930s.

Fig. 44 shows a Vlchek model 90 7/16x1/2 tappet wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Vlchek" on the face.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is a nickel plating with a rather rough surface.

92 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 45. Vlchek 92 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench, ca. Late 1920s to Mid 1930s.

Fig. 45 shows an earlier Vlchek model 92 1/2x9/16 tappet wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Vlchek" on the face.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.

93 5/8x11/16 Tappet Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 46. Vlchek 93 5/8x11/16 Tappet Wrench, ca. Late 1920s to Mid 1930s.

Fig. 46 shows a Vlchek model 93 5/8x11/16 tappet wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Vlchek" on the face.

The overall length is 8.2 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.

Standard Tappet Wrenches

The next several figures show examples of Vlchek's 9x series of tappet wrenches in the standard head style. This style was produced from the mid 1930s onward.

89 3/8x7/16 Tappet Wrench

By 1949 (or earlier) the 9x series had been extended to include a model 89 wrench, as illustrated in the next figure.

Fig. 47. Vlchek 89 3/8x7/16 Tappet Wrench, ca. Mid 1950s to Early 1960s.

Fig. 47 shows a later Vlchek model 89 3/8x7/16 tappet wrench, stamped "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is a bright chrome plate.

The "Alloy" marking suggests production in the mid 1950s or later.

90A 7/16x17/32 Tappet Wrench

Fig. 48. Vlchek 90A 7/16x17/32 Tappet Wrench. ca. Mid 1950s to Early 1960s.

Fig. 48 shows a later Vlchek 90A 7/16x17/32 tappet wrench, stamped "Alloy" and "U.S.A." on the shank. The shank also has a forged-in code "2" on the back side (not shown).

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.

The "Alloy" marking suggests production in the mid 1950s or later.

92 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench

Fig. 49. Vlchek 92 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench, ca. Mid 1930s to Mid 1950s.

Fig. 49 shows a later Vlchek 92 tappet wrench, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on the face with "Chrome Molybdenum" on the shank. The shank also has a forged-in code "7" visible at the left.

The overall length is 8.0 inches. The finish is chrome plating, with losses due to wear and rust.

93 5/8x11/16 Tappet Wrench

Fig. 50. Vlchek 93 5/8x11/16 Tappet Wrench, with Inset for Back Side, ca. Mid 1930s to Mid 1950s.

Fig. 50 shows a later Vlchek model 93 5/8x11/16 tappet wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank. The back side shank has a forged-in code "13" visible at the left.

The overall length is 8.2 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

94 3/4x7/8 Tappet Wrenches

The next two figures show examples of the Vlchek 94 tappet wrench.

Fig. 51. Vlchek 94 3/4x7/8 Tappet Wrench, ca. Mid 1930s to Mid 1950s.

Fig. 51 shows a Vlchek 94 3/4x7/8 tappet wrench, stamped "Vlchek" and "Made in U.S.A." on the face, with "Chrome Molybdenum" on the shank. The shank also has a forged-in code "3" visible at the left.

The overall length is 8.3 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.

Fig. 52. Vlchek 94 3/4x7/8 Tappet Wrench, ca. Mid 1930s to Mid 1950s.

Fig. 52 shows another example of the Vlchek 94 3/4x7/8 tappet wrench, stamped "Vlchek" on the face, with "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank. The shank also has a forged-in code "4" visible at the left.

The finish is a more refined chrome plate with polished heads. The overall length is 8.1 inches.

Special Tappet Wrenches

In addition to the Vlchek 9x series of tappet wrenches, the company also produced other styles of tappet wrenches as contract production or special tools.

Early 11/16x11/16 Tappet Wrench

Fig. 53. Vlchek 11/16x11/16 Tappet Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 53 shows an early Vlchek 11/16x11/16 tappet wrench, marked with "Forged by Vlchek" forged into the shank, with "Chrome Molybdenum" forged into the back side. The back side shank also has forged-in number "1" (not shown).

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is black paint.

This wrench is unusual in that both openings have the same size and the same offset angle.

The forged-in markings suggest earlier production from the 1920s or early 1930s.

1A1442 (Caterpillar) 9/16x9/16 Tappet Wrench

This next figure shows a Vlchek tappet wrench believed to have been produced for Caterpillar.

Fig. 54. Vlchek 1A1442 9/16x9/16 Tappet Wrench.

Fig. 54 shows a Vlchek 1A1442 9/16x9/16 tappet wrench, stamped "Vlchek" on the shank. The shank also has a forged-in number "7" visible at the right.

The overall length is 8.0 inches, and the finish is black paint.

The wrench appears to be made of alloy steel despite the lack of markings to that effect; the metal is not as hard as would be expected for carbon steel construction.

This wrench has two openings of the same size but with one offset at a 22.5 degree angle, an early style also used by Bonney and Blue Point tappet wrenches. Later Vlchek tappet wrenches used a different design, with two different opening sizes at 15 degree offset angles.

One of our readers has confirmed that this tappet wrench is marked with a Caterpillar part number, and so presumably was made for Caterpillar. We'll provide more information on the specific application when available.

Open-End Wrenches

Vlchek Tool offered a wide selection of alloy steel open-end wrenches, in both industry-standard sizes and in their own W-series sizes.

Based on a review of the catalogs, Vlchek offered open-end wrenches in two basic designs, an earlier style from the 1920s with larger "parabolic" heads, and a later style with smaller heads and narrower shanks, first produced in the early 1930s as Vlchek's W-series wrenches. These two design groups in turn were produced with a number of variations.

For example, the parabolic-head wrenches were actually produced in two model number series, one with the plain industry model number (e.g. "33C"), and the other with a 1000 prefix to the industry number (e.g. "1033C"). In both cases the wrenches were stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" or "Alloy Steel" on the face.

In addition, the company offered a premium "Parathin" 2xxx-series of chrome-molybdenum wrenches marked with a 2000 prefix to the ISN model number. The 2xxx wrenches were listed in a 1931 price list at prices substantially higher than the standard 1xxx-series, but appear to have sold in only limited quantities.

As another example, the design for the W-series wrenches was also used for a line of alloy-steel wrenches marked with "pure" industry-standard numbers, sometimes stamped "Chrome-Molybdenum" and sometimes with "Alloy Steel".

In the following figures we'll try to sort out these variations and show examples of the various types.

Early "Parabolic" Open-End Wrenches

By the late 1920s Vlchek was offering open-end wrenches with a "Parabolic" head design in chrome-molybdenum alloy steel. The wrenches were given 1xxx-series model numbers based on ISN numbers with a 1000 offset.

Fig. 55A. 1930 Catalog Listing for Vlchek "Parabolic" Wrenches.

The scan in Fig. 55A shows a catalog listing for these wrenches, as published on page 91 of the 1930 Western Auto Supply (Western edition) catalog.

The catalog lists the wrenches with industry-standard numbers offset by 1000, a typical model number for an alloy-steel open-end wrench. However, Vlchek sometimes produced the same chrome-molybdenum parabolic wrenches without the offset number, or with an offset by 2000.

We are fortunate to have a number of examples of these "Parabolic" wrenches displayed in the following figures.

1723 3/8x7/16 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 55. Vlchek 1723 3/8x7/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 55 shows a Vlchek 1723 3/8x7/16 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on one face with the model number on the other end. The shank is marked with "Drop Forged" forged into the front, with "Made in U.S.A." forged into the back side. (The inset shows the back side marking in its natural orientation.)

The overall length is 4.1 inches. The finish is nickel plating, but with extensive losses due to rust and wear.

1023 13/32x1/2 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 56. Vlchek 1023 "Parabolic" 13/32x1/2 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 56 shows a Vlchek 1023 13/32x1/2 open-end wrench, a somewhat unusual size, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on the face.

The overall length is 4.1 inches, and the finish is nickel plating with polished faces.

1725 7/16x1/2 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 58. Vlchek 1725 "Parabolic" 7/16x1/2 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 58 shows a Vlchek 1725 7/16x1/2 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on one face with the model number on the other end.

The overall length is 5.1 inches. The original finish was nickel plating, but most has been lost due to rust and wear.

1725B 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 59. Vlchek 1725B "Parabolic" 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 59 shows a Vlchek 1725B 1/2x9/16 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on one face with the model number on the other end. The shank has forged-in markings "Made in U.S.A." on one side, with "Drop Forged" on the back side.

The overall length is 5.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

1025 1/2x19/32 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 60. Vlchek 1025 "Parabolic" 1/2x19/32 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 60 shows a Vlchek 1025 1/2x19/32 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on one face with the model number on the other end.

The overall length is 5.2 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.

1727 9/16x5/8 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 61. Vlchek 1727 "Parabolic" 9/16x5/8 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 61 shows a Vlchek 1727 9/16x5/8 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Vlchek" on one face, with the model number on the other face.

The overall length is 6.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

27/1027 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrenches, Parabolic Style

Fig. 62. Vlchek 27 "Parabolic" 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 62 shows a Vlchek 27 19/32x11/16 open-end wrench in the parabolic style, stamped with "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Vlchek" on the left face, with the model number on the right face, and with the fractional sizes on the back side faces.

The overall length is 6.1 inches, and the finish is nickel plating with polished faces.

Fig. 63. Vlchek 1027 "Parabolic" 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 63 shows a similar Vlchek 1027 19/32x11/16 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Vlchek" on one face, with the model number on the other face.

The overall length is 6.1 inches, and the finish is nickel plating with polished faces.

1729 5/8x3/4 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 64. Vlchek 1729 "Parabolic" 5/8x3/4 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 64 shows a Vlchek 1729 5/8x3/4 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on the face.

The overall length is 7.1 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.

31 25/32x7/8 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 65. Vlchek 31 "Parabolic" 25/32x7/8 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 65 shows a Vlchek 31 25/32x7/8 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on one face with the industry-standard model number on the other end.

The overall length is 8.0 inches. The finish appears to be nickel plating, now worn through in some areas.

1731B 13/16x7/8 Open-End Wrench, Parabolic Style

Fig. 66. Vlchek 1731B "Parabolic" 13/16x7/8 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 66 shows a Vlchek 1731B 13/16x7/8 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on the face.

The overall length is 8.0 inches, and the finish is nickel plating with polished faces.

33C/1033C 15/16x1 Open-End Wrenches, Parabolic Style

The next two figures show examples of similar 15/16x1 open-end wrenches.

Fig. 67A. Vlchek 33C "Parabolic" 15/16x1 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 67A shows a Vlchek 33C 15/16x1 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on the face.

The overall length is 8.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Fig. 67B. Vlchek 1033C "Parabolic" 15/16x1 Open-End Wrench, ca. Mid 1920s to Early 1930s.

Fig. 67B shows a Vlchek 1033C 15/16x1 open-end wrench, stamped with "Chrome Molybdenum" on the face.

The overall length is 8.9 inches, and the finish is nickel plating, although badly worn in some areas.

2xxx-Series "Parathin" Open-End Wrenches

By 1931 Vlchek was offering a 2xxx-series of "Parathin" open-end wrenches with a 2000 offset to the ISN model number. These wrenches are documented in a 1931 price list, which noted that the tools were finished in chrome plating, instead of the nickel plating used for the 1xxx-series ISN wrenches.

The prices for the 2xxx series were substantially higher than the 1xxx wrenches, making it clear that Vlchek intended these as premium products. The wrenches are fairly rare however, suggesting that they sold in only limited quantities.

2023 13/32x1/2 Open-End Wrench, "Parathin" Style

The next figure shows a less common example of the Vlchek "Parathin" wrenches, with a 2000 offset to the ISN model number.

Fig. 68. Vlchek 2023 13/32x1/2 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 68 shows a Vlchek 2023 13/32x1/2 open-end wrench, stamped with "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Vlchek" on the face.

The overall length is 4.8 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

W-Series Open-End Wrenches

In the early 1930s Vlchek introduced a W-series line of double-ended wrenches as an alternative to its industry-standard open-end wrenches. Catalog A-2 of 1934 referred to these as "The New Vlchek Double End Wrench", so we can reasonably assume that they were first offered around this time. The catalog further described the wrenches as having narrow streamlined jaws, and noted a "Cadalyte" finish with buffed heads.

Fig. 69A. 1934 Catalog Listing for Vlchek W-Series Open-End Wrenches.

The scan in Fig. 69A shows the listing for the W-series wrenches, as published on page 13 of Vlchek catalog A-2 of 1934.

The table below the illustration lists the W-series wrenches in a modest selection of ten sizes, ranging from the model W1012 (5/16x3/8) up to model W3236 (1x1-1/8).

As can be inferred from the examples, the model number of each wrench encodes the opening sizes in 32nds, a more convenient and rational numbering convention than the older industry-standard numbers.

The initial collection of W-series wrenches included no duplicates of opening sizes, so that a small number of tools could cover most of the commonly-used sizes. However, later additions to the series expanded both the range and number of size combinations.

Note that the catalog illustration above shows the wrench with a relatively wide shank. Later production would use a narrower and more rounded shank, and a review of the catalogs may allow us to estimate production dates based on the shank style.

The next several figures show examples of the Vlchek W-series wrenches.

W0608 3/16x1/4 Open-End Wrench

Fig. 69. Vlchek W0608 3/16x1/4 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 69 shows the smallest model of the W-series wrenches, a tiny Vlchek W0608 3/16x1/4 open-end wrench with "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." stamped on the shank.

The overall length is 3.4 inches. The original finish appears to have been cadmium plating with polished but unplated faces, but most of the plating has been lost. A faint forged-in number "10" can be seen on the left.

W0810 1/4x5/16 Open-End Wrench

Fig. 70. Vlchek W0810 1/4x5/16 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 70 shows another small example, a Vlchek W0810 1/4x5/16 open-end wrench. The shank is stamped "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A.", with a forged-in number "1" visible at the left.

The overall length is 3.7 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

W1012 5/16x3/8 Open-End Wrench

Fig. 71. Vlchek W1012 5/16x3/8 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 71 shows a Vlchek W1012 5/16x3/8 open-end wrench, stamped "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank. The shank also has a forged-in number "34" visible at the left.

The overall length is 3.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

W1416 7/16x1/2 Open-End Wrench

Fig. 72. Vlchek W1416 7/16x1/2 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 72 shows a Vlchek W1416 7/16x1/2 open-end wrench, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on one face, with a forged-in number "13" visible on the shank at the left.

The overall length is 5.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

W1820 9/16x5/8 Open-End Wrenches

The next two figures show examples of the Vlchek W1820 wrench.

Fig. 73. Vlchek W1820 9/16x5/8 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 73 shows a Vlchek W1820 9/16x5/8 open-end wrench, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on one face with "Alloy" on the other face.

The overall length is 6.4 inches. The wrench is unfinished steel with polished ends, and has a forged-in number "42".

Fig. 74. Vlchek W1820 9/16x5/8 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 74 shows another Vlchek W1820 wrench, stamped "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finished is plain steel with polished faces. The forged-in number is "77".

W2225 11/16x25/32 Open-End Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the Vlchek W2225 model.

Fig. 75. Vlchek W2225 11/16x25/32 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 75 shows an earlier Vlchek W2225 11/16x25/32 open-end wrench, stamped "Made in U.S.A." and "Alloy" on the faces. The shank has a forged-in number "18" visible at the left.

The overall length is 7.7 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.

Fig. 76. Vlchek W2225 11/16x25/32 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 76 shows a later Vlchek W2225 11/16x25/32 open-end wrench, stamped "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank.

The overall length is 7.7 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished faces. The forged-in number is "72".

W2426 3/4x13/16 Open-End Wrench

Fig. 77. Vlchek W2426 3/4x13/16 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 77 shows a Vlchek W2426 3/4x13/16 open-end wrench, marked "Made in U.S.A." and "Alloy". The overall length is 9.2 inches.

The finish is plain steel with polished ends, and the forged-in number is "10".

W2526 25/32x13/16 Open-End Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the Vlchek W2526 model.

Fig. 78. Vlchek W2526 25/32x13/16 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 78 shows an earlier Vlchek W2526 25/32x13/16 open-end wrench, stamped "Vlchek" and "Made in U.S.A." on one face, with "Alloy" and the model number on the other.

The shank has a forged-in number "9" visible at the left.

The overall length is 9.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel with traces of cadmium plating.

Fig. 79. Vlchek W2526 25/32x13/16 Open-End Wrench, ca. Late 1940s.

Fig. 79 shows a later Vlchek W2526 25/32x13/16 open-end wrench, stamped "Vlchek" and "Made in U.S.A." on one face, with "Alloy" and the model number on the other.

The shank has a forged-in number "11" visible at the left.

The overall length is 9.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished faces.

The narrow shank and face markings suggest production in the late 1940s.

W2830 7/8x15/16 Open-End Wrench

Fig. 80. Vlchek W2830 7/8x15/16 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 80 shows a Vlchek W2830 7/8x15/16 open-end wrench, stamped "Vlchek" and "Made in U.S.A." on one face, with "Alloy" and the model number on the other. The shank has a forged-in number "18" visible at the left.

The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel with traces of cadmium plating.

W3440 1-1/16x1-1/4 Open-End Wrench

Fig. 81. Vlchek W3440 1-1/16x1-1/4 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 81 shows a Vlchek W3440 1-1/16x1-1/4 open-end wrench, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on one face, with "Alloy" and the model number on the other face.

The shank has a forged-in code "2" visible at the left.

The overall length is 11.9 inches. and the finish is a cadmium plating.

This wrench has the same opening sizes as an industry-standard No. 37 wrench, or model 1037 in Vlchek's alloy ISN series.

Special-Order U.S.N. 1-3/16x1-5/16 Open-End Wrench

We'll close this section with a special-order wrench in the style of the W-series, but not marked with a Vlchek model number.

Fig. 82. Vlchek U.S.N. 1-3/16x1-5/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Marking Detail.

Fig. 82 shows a Vlchek 1-3/16x1-5/16 open-end wrench, stamped "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank, with the Vlchek name stamped on one face (see inset) and "U.S.N." on the other face.

A forged-in number "11" can be seen on the shank at the left.

The overall length is 11.9 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The unusual size and markings suggest that this was likely a military special-order tool.

WJ1416 7/32x1/4 Ignition Open-End Wrench

Although less commonly found, Vlchek also produced miniature open-end wrenches for ignition service or other applications.

Fig. 83. Vlchek WH1416 7/32x1/4 Ignition Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 83 shows a Vlchek WJ1416 7/32x1/4 ignition open-end wrench, marked with just the Vlchek name, model, and fractional sizes.

The overall length is 3.0 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.

Alloy-Steel Industry-Standard Number (ISN) Wrenches

After the introduction of Vlchek's W-series line of open-end wrenches, Vlchek used the same design (and probably the same forging dies) to produce a line of wrenches marked with pure industry-standard numbers, but made with (and marked as) alloy steel. These wrenches were apparently produced in large quantities, as they are among the most commonly found of the Vlchek tools.

However, these wrenches were not listed in the Vlchek catalogs, strongly suggesting that the production was intended for military or industrial contracts, such as vehicle tool kits.

723 3/8x7/16 Open-End Wrenches

We'll begin with two examples of the well-known 723 wrench, a size found in many tool kits.

Fig. 84. Vlchek 723 3/8x7/16 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 84 shows a Vlchek 723 3/8x7/16 open-end wrench, marked "Chro-Mol Vlchek" on the face.

The overall length is 4.7 inches, and the finish is plain steel. The forged-in number "14" can be seen on the shank at the left.

Fig. 85. Vlchek 723 3/8x7/16 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 85 shows another example of the Vlchek 723 wrench, stamped "Alloy Steel Vlchek" on the face. The shank has a forged-in number "1" visible at the left.

The overall length is 4.8 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

28-S 5/8x25/32 Open-End Wrenches

The next figures show several generations of the Vlchek 28-S model.

Fig. 86. Vlchek 28-S 5/8x25/32 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 86 shows an earlier Vlchek 28-S 5/8x25/32 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Vlchek" on the face.

The overall length is 7.7 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Fig. 87. Vlchek 28-S 5/8x25/32 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 87 shows a somewhat later Vlchek 28-S 5/8x25/32 open-end wrench, stamped "Alloy Steel" and "Vlchek" on the face.

The overall length is 7.7 inches, and the finish is gray paint.

The shank has a forged-in number "45" visible at the left.

Fig. 88. Vlchek 28-S 5/8x25/32 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 88 shows a later Vlchek 28-S 5/8x25/32 open-end wrench, stamped "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank.

The overall length is 7.7 inches. The finish is a dark oxide coating, and the faces have been left unpolished, suggesting that this may have been made for a tool kit.

The shank has a forged-in number "73" visible at the left.

731A 3/4x7/8 Open-End Wrenches

The next two figures show examples of the 731A wrench, with differences in the finish and markings.

Fig. 89. Vlchek 731A 3/4x7/8 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 89 shows a Vlchek 731A 3/4x7/8 open-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on one face with the industry-standard number 731A on the other face.

The overall length is 9.1 inches, and the finish is nickel plating with polished faces.

The shank has a forged-in number "3" visible at the left.

Fig. 90. Vlchek 731A 3/4x7/8 Open-End Wrench.

Fig. 90 shows another example of the Vlchek 731A 3/4x7/8 open-end wrench, marked "Alloy Steel" on the face.

The overall length is 9.2 inches. This wrench has a dark finish without polished end faces, suggesting that this may have been a military toolkit wrench.

The shank has a forged-in number "31" visible at the left.

Box-End Wrenches

Our earliest catalog reference for Vlchek box-end wrenches is the 1934 catalog A-2, which offered 12-point box wrenches in a short offset WB series and long offset WBL series, plus a few specialty models. The earlier catalog No. 13 from around 1929 or 1930 doesn't list any box wrenches, so we can be reasonably sure that production of these models began in the early 1930s. Vlchek's WB and WBL series of wrenches were made with round shanks, instead of the flat shanks familiar in later production.

The 1938 catalog shows box-end wrenches in three series, the WBC short 10-degree models, the WB short offset models, and the WBA long 45-degree (deep) offset models. The WBA and WBC series are shown with raised panels at this time.

By 1952 (actually probably well before) the more familiar long offset WBH series box wrenches had been introduced. These were first produced with raised panels but then later changed to a flat shank. Chrome alloy steel was standard for all of these wrenches, but later (by 1952) there were economy-grade wrenches offered as well.

Early Round-Shank Box Wrenches

Vlchek's earliest box-end wrenches were made with round shanks and offered in two major styles, a WB series of single-offset wrenches, and a WBL series of standard length double-offset wrenches. Production probably began in the early 1930s, but our earliest catalog reference is the 1934 catalog A-2.

WBL2022 5/8x11/16 Round-Shank Offset Box-End Wrench

The Vlchek WBL series wrenches are relatively uncommon, but we have several examples for your viewing pleasure.

Fig. 91. Vlchek WBL2022 5/8x11/16 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View, Back Side and Marking Detail, ca. 1931-1937.

Fig. 91 shows a Vlchek WBL2022 5/8x11/16 offset box-end wrench with a round shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model and sizes on the front, with "Chrome Molybdenum" on the back side.

The overall length is 9.8 inches, and the finish is plain steel, with pitting due to rust.

The middle inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the round shank and rugged construction.

The lower inset shows a close-up of the back side marking to illustrate the taller initial letters in "Chrome Molybdenum", a stylistic trait that helps identify Vlchek production.

Another detail to note is that the Vlchek design provides both an offset and an angle to the box end. Other manufacturers typically produced either angled box ends with no offsets, or offset box ends with the plane of the box parallel to the shank.

WBL2425 3/4x25/32 Round-Shank Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 92. Vlchek WBL2425 3/4x25/32 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Detail, ca. 1931-1937.

Fig. 92 shows a Vlchek WBL2425 3/4x25/32 offset box-end wrench, marked "Chrome Molybdenum" on the back side.

The overall length is 11.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished ends. (The original finish may have been cadmium plating, but no trace remains.)

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the round shank and rugged construction.

WBL2628 13/16x7/8 Round-Shank Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 93. Vlchek WBL2628 13/16x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1931-1937.

Fig. 93 shows another example of the WBL series, a Vlchek WBL2628 13/16x7/8 offset box-end wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on the back side.

The overall length is 12.6 inches, and the finish is cadmium plating with polished ends.

WB18 9/16x9/16 Single-Offset Box Wrench

The next two figures show examples of Vlchek single-offset box wrenches.

Fig. 94. Vlchek WB18 9/16x9/16 Single-Offset Box Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1930s.

Fig. 94 shows a Vlchek WB18 9/16x9/16 single-offset box wrench, stamped with "Vlchek" and the model number on the shank, with "Chrome Molybdenum" on the back side.

The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

1B3036 3/4x3/4 Single-Offset Box Wrench

Fig. 95. Vlchek 1B3036 3/4x3/4 Single-Offset Box Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1930s.

Fig. 95 shows a Vlchek 1B3036 3/4x3/4 single-offset box wrench, stamped with "Vlchek" and "Made in U.S.A." on the shank.

The overall length is 12.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The model number on this wrench suggests that it might have been contract production for Caterpiller, which often assigned models beginning with a number and letter.

WBM1820 9/16x5/8 Half-Moon Box Wrench

In addition to the early WB and WBL series, Vlchek also offered a single model in the half-moon style, as shown in our next figure.

Fig. 96. Vlchek WBM1820 9/16x5/8 Halfmoon Box Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1931-1937.

Fig. 96 shows a Vlchek WBM1820 9/16x5/8 halfmoon box wrench, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" on the back side.

The overall length is 6.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

This wrench has a round shank as with the other early box-end wrench models. This model was listed in the 1934 catalog A-2, the only example of the half-moon style.

WZ3400 7/16x9/16 Double-Square Box Wrench

This next figure shows a specialty wrench for adjusting brakes on Ford Models A and AA vehicles.

Fig. 97. Vlchek WZ3400 7/16x1/2 Double-Square Box Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1930s.

Fig. 97 shows a Vlchek WZ3400 7/16x1/2 double-square box wrench for Ford brake applications, stamped with "Chrome Molybdenum" on the back side.

The overall length is 11.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel, possibly with cadmium plating.

This wrench has a round shank as with the other early box-end wrench models.

WBA-Series Deep Offset Box Wrenches

WBA1214 3/8x7/16 Deep Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 98. Vlchek WBA1214 3/8x7/16 Deep Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Edge View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1937 to Early 1940s.

Fig. 98 shows a Vlchek WBA1214 3/8x7/16 deep offset box-end wrench with raised panels on the shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back panel.

The overall length is 7.4 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The shank also has a forged-in code "5" visible at the right.

The top inset shows an edge view of the wrench, illustrating the deeply offset design.

The raised panels indicate production from the late 1930s to around 1946, and the "Chrome Molybdenum" marking and chrome finish make a pre-war manufacturing date most likely, though an immediate post-war manufacturing date might be possible.

WBA2425 3/4x25/32 Deep Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 99. Vlchek WBA2425 3/4x25/32 Deep Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Edge View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1937 to Early 1940s.

Fig. 99 shows a Vlchek WBA2425 3/4x25/32 deep offset box-end wrench with raised panels on the shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back panel.

The overall length is 11.1 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The shank also has a forged-in code "5" visible at the left of the back panel.

The top inset shows an edge view of the wrench, illustrating the deeply offset design.

WBA2628 13/16x7/8 Deep Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 100. Vlchek WBA2628 13/16x7/8 Deep Offset Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Edge View, ca. 1942-1945.

Fig. 100 shows a Vlchek WBA2628 13/16x7/8 deep offset box-end wrench with raised panels, stamped with "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." plus the model and fractional sizes on the front panel.

The overall length is 12.7 inches, and the finish is plain steel, with pitting due to rust.

The back side also has a forged-in code "5..." (not shown).

The top inset shows a edge view of the wrench, illustrating the deeply offset design.

The raised panels indicate production from the late 1930s to mid 1940s, and the "Alloy" marking and plain finish suggest production during the 1942-1945 wartime years.

WBA3032 15/16x1 Inch Deep Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 101. Vlchek WBA3032 15/16x1 Deep Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Edge View and Marking Detail, ca. 1945-1946.

Fig. 101 shows a Vlchek WBA3032 15/16x1 deep offset box-end wrench with raised panels, stamped with "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." plus the model and fractional sizes on the front panel (lower inset).

The overall length is 14.5 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The shank also has a forged-in code "4" visible to the left of the panel.

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the deeply offset design.

The raised panels indicate production from the late 1930s to around 1946, and the "Alloy" marking with a chrome plated finish suggests production during the early post-war years.

WBC-Series Short Angled Box Wrenches

WBC1012 5/16x3/8 Short Angled Box-End Wrench

Fig. 102. Vlchek WBC1012 5/16x3/8 Short Angled Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Back Side and Side View, ca. 1942-1945.

Fig. 102 shows a Vlchek WBC1012 5/16x3/8 short angled box-end wrench with raised panels, stamped "Vlchek" with the model and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side panel. The shank is also marked with an asterisk on the front and a forged-in number "15" on the back side.

The overall length is 4.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The raised panels indicate production from the late 1930s to mid 1940s, and the "Alloy" marking and plain finish suggest production during the 1942-1945 wartime years.

WBC1214 3/8x7/16 Short Angled Box-End Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the WBC1214 box wrench.

Fig. 103. Vlchek WBC1214 3/8x7/16 Short Angled Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1942-1945.

Fig. 103 shows a Vlchek WBC1214 3/8x7/16 short angled box-end wrench marked "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side.

The overall length is 4.6 inches, and the finish appears to be cadmium plating.

The shank of this wrench has raised panels, indicating an earlier example of production of this model.

The wrench has a forged-in number "16" and a very clear asterisk mark on the opposite side.

The raised panels indicate production from the late 1930s to mid 1940s, and the "Alloy" marking and plain finish suggest production during the 1942-1945 wartime years.

Fig. 104. Vlchek WBC1214 3/8x7/16 Short Angled Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1947 to Late 1940s.

Fig. 104 shows another Vlchek WBC1214 3/8x7/16 short Angled box-end wrench, but this time with a flat shank. The shank is stamped "Vlchek" with the model and fractional sizes, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "24" visible at the left.

The overall length is 4.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished box ends.

The flat shank was standard for the WBC series wrenches from around 1947 onward. The stamped markings on both sides suggest production before around 1950.

WBC1618 1/2x9/16 Short Offset Box-End Wrenches

The next figures illustrate several generations of the WBC1618 box wrench.

Fig. 105. Vlchek WBC1618 1/2x9/16 Short Angled Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1937 to Early 1940s.

Fig. 105 shows an earlier Vlchek WBC1618 1/2x9/16 short angled box wrench in the paneled style, stamped with the Vlchek name, model number, and sizes on one panel, with "Chrome Moly" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "3" visible at the left.

The overall length is 5.7 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.

The raised panels indicate production from the late 1930s to mid 1940s, and the "Chrome Molybdenum" marking and plated finish suggest a pre-war manufacturing date.

Fig. 106. Vlchek WBC1618 1/2x9/16 Short Angled Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1942-1945.

Fig. 106 shows a somewhat later Vlchek WBC1618 1/2x9/16 short angled box wrench with raised panels, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "18" visible at the left.

The overall length is 5.7 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The raised panels indicate production from the late 1930s to mid 1940s, and the "Alloy" marking and plain finish suggest production during the 1942-1945 wartime years.

[Vlchek WBC1618 1/2x9/16 Short Offset Box-End Wrench]

Fig. 107. Vlchek WBC1618 1/2x9/16 Short Angled Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1947 to Late 1940s.

Fig. 107 shows a later Vlchek WBC1618 1/2x9/16 short angled box wrench with a flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "33" visible at the left.

The overall length is 5.7 inches.

The flat shank was standard for the WBC series wrenches from around 1947 onward. The stamped markings on both sides suggest production before around 1950.

WBC2022 5/8x11/16 Short Offset Box-End Wrench

The next two figures show examples of the WBC2022 box wrench.

Fig. 108. Vlchek WBC2022 5/8x11/16 Short Angled Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Edge View and Back Side Detail, ca. Late 1930s to Early 1940s.

Fig. 108 shows an early Vlchek WBC2022 5/8x11/16 short angled box wrench in the paneled style, stamped with the Vlchek name, model number, and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Chrome Moly" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back panel.

The overall length is 5.9 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.

This example is somewhat unusual in that it does not have a forged-in number, although the front shank does have the forged-in "asterisk" mark.

The raised panels indicate production from the late 1930s to mid 1940s, and the "Chrome Molybdenum" marking and plated finish suggest a pre-war manufacturing date.

Fig. 109. Vlchek WBC2022 5/8x11/16 Short Angled Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Edge View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1947 to Late 1940s.

Fig. 109 shows a later Vlchek WBC2022 5/8x11/16 short angled box wrench, stamped with the Vlchek name, model number, and fractional sizes on the front, with "Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back.

The overall length is 5.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The shank has a forged-in number "10.." visible on the back at the left.

The flat shank was standard for the WBC series wrenches from around 1947 onward. The stamped markings on both sides suggest production before around 1950.

WBH-Series Offset Box-End Wrenches

The WBH series of long offset box wrenches are one of Vlchek's better known tools, and these wrenches must have been very popular, if the number still available is any indication.

The WBH series was introduced sometime in the mid 1940s, probably during the wartime years. These wrenches were given a hybrid design incorporating both angled box ends and a small offset, somewhere in between the WBC angled series and the WBA deep offset series. Initially the wrenches were made with raised panels, but by around 1947 were being produced with flat shanks.

Chrome plated finishes were standard for these wrenches during the post-war 1940s and 1950s. However, a number of examples have been found with flat shanks and plain or cadmium finishes, suggesting that these are special orders or production for government contracts.

Alloy Content

Vlchek's preferred alloy for wrenches was chrome molybdenum steel, and this steel was probably used for the WBH series whenever permitted by availability and economic factors. During the wartime years a generic "Alloy Steel" marking was generally used, and in the post-war years some "Chrome Molybdenum" markings have been noted. However, by 1949 the catalogs had begun using a more generic "Chrome Alloy" or "Alloy" specification, suggesting that the later production was probably not marked for the specific steel.

The relative scarcity of "Chrome Molybdenum" marked examples of WBH wrenches suggests that these can be attributed to the early post-war years.

We'll show a number of the WBH models in the figures below, and where possible will show multiple generations of a particular model.

WBH1214 3/8x7/16 Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 110. Vlchek WBH1214 3/8x7/16 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1950s to Early 1960s.

Fig. 110 shows a Vlchek WBH1214 3/8x7/16 box-end wrench in the flat-shank style, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with no (stamped) markings on the back side. The back side has a forged-in number "12" (not shown).

The overall length is 8.5 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the mix of angled and offset styles characteristic of the WBH series.

The chrome plated finish and "Alloy" with markings on only one side suggest production from around 1950 onward.

WBH1416 7/16x1/2 Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 111. Vlchek WBH1416 7/16x1/2 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1947-1948.

Fig. 111 shows a Vlchek WBH1416 7/16x1/2 box-end wrench in the flat-shank style, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side.

The back side shank also has a forged-in number "2" visible at the left.

The overall length is 8.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The flat shank was standard for the WBH series from around 1947 onward, and stamped markings were placed on both sides until about 1950. The "Chrome Molybdenum" marking on this example is uncommon for WBH-series flat-shank wrenches, suggesting production relatively early in the post-war era.

WBH1618 1/2x9/16 Offset Box-End Wrench

[Vlchek WBH2022 1/2x9/16 Offset Box-End Wrench]

Fig. 112. Vlchek WBH1618 1/2x9/16 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1947 to Late 1940s.

Fig. 112 shows a Vlchek WBH1618 1/2x9/16 offset box-end wrench with a flat shank, stamped with "Vlchek" and the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "3" visible at the left.

The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the mix of angled and offset styles characteristic of the WBH series.

The flat shank was standard for the WBH series from around 1947 onward. The markings on both sides suggest production before around 1950, after which a single-sided marking style became standard.

Chrome plated finishes were standard in the post-war era for civilian production, so the plain finish on this example suggests production for the military.

WBH2022 5/8x11/16 Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 113. Vlchek WBH2022 5/8x11/16 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1943-1945.

Fig. 113 shows a Vlchek WBH2022 5/8x11/16 offset box-end wrench with raised panels, stamped with "Vlchek" and the model number and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side panel.

The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel. The box ends of the wrench have been polished but the wrench appears to have been left unplated.

The raised panels and alloy steel marking suggest production during the 1943-1945 wartime years.

WBH2024 5/8x3/4 Offset Box-End Wrench

This next figure shows an example of the WBH series in a less common size combination.

Fig. 114. Vlchek WBH2024 5/8x3/4 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1947 to Late 1940s.

Fig. 114 shows a Vlchek WBH2024 5/8x3/4 offset box-end wrench with a flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "1" visible at the left.

The overall length is 11.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished ends.

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench to illustrate the distinctive offset design. Vlchek offset wrenches used a gradual bend, giving the tools the combined characteristics of angled and offset box wrenches.

The flat shank was standard for the WBH series from around 1947 onward. The marking style using both sides was used until about 1950, after which a single-sided marking style became standard.

Chrome plated finishes were standard in the post-war era for civilian production, so the plain finish on this example suggests production for the military.

WBH2428 3/4x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the WBH2428 wrench.

Fig. 115. Vlchek WBH2428 3/4x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1943-1945.

Fig. 115 shows an earlier Vlchek WBH2428 3/4x7/8 offset box-end wrench with raised panels, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side panel. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "4" visible at the left.

The overall length is 12.3 inches, and the finish is cadmium plating steel with polished ends.

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the mix of angled and offset styles characteristic of the WBH series.

The raised panels and cadmium finish suggest production during the 1943-1945 wartime years.

Fig. 116. Vlchek WBH2428 3/4x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side, ca. 1947 to Late 1940s.

Fig. 116 shows a later Vlchek WBH2428 3/4x7/8 offset box-end wrench with a flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "16" visible at the left.

The overall length is 12.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished ends.

The flat shank was standard for the WBH series from around 1947 onward. The marking style using both sides was used until about 1950, after which a single-sided marking style became standard.

Chrome plated finishes were standard in the post-war era for civilian production, so the plain finish on this example suggests production for the military.

WBH2628 13/16x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the model WBH2628 wrench.

Fig. 117. Vlchek WBH2628 13/16x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Edge View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1945-1946.

Fig. 117 shows an earlier Vlchek WBH2628 13/16x7/8 offset box wrench with raised panels, stamped with "Vlchek" and the model number and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back panel.

The overall length is 13.4 inches, and the finish is a heavy nickel or chrome plating.

The shank also has a forged-in number "1", visible in the lower inset to the left of the panel.

The top inset shows an edge view of the wrench, illustrating the mix of angled and offset styles characteristic of the WBH series.

The raised panels, chrome molybdenum marking, and plated finish suggest production in the early postwar years of 1945-1946.

Fig. 118. Vlchek WBH2628 13/16x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1947-1948.

Fig. 118 shows a somewhat later WBH2628 13/16x7/8 offset box wrench with a flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with "Chrome Molybdenum" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side. The back side shank also has a forged-in number "20" visible at the left.

The overall length is 13.4 inches, and the finish is nickel or chrome plating, with minor losses due to wear.

Fig. 119. Vlchek WBH2628 13/16x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1947 to Late 1940s.

Fig. 119 shows a later WBH2628 13/16x7/8 offset box wrench with a flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side.

The back side shank also has a forged-in number "12" visible at the left.

The overall length is 13.4 inches, and the finish is cadmium plating.

The flat shank and stamped markings on both sides suggest production from 1947 to the late 1940s.

Chrome plated finishes were standard in the post-war era for civilian production, so the cadmium finish on this example suggests production for the military.

WBH3032 15/16x1 Offset Box-End Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the WBH3032 model.

Fig. 120. Vlchek WBH3032 15/16x1 Inch Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1943-1945.

Fig. 120 shows an earlier Vlchek WBH3032 15/16x1 offset box wrench with raised panels, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side panel.

The forged-in number is a "6".

The overall length is 15.0 inches, and the finish is cadmium plating with polished ends.

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the mix of angled and offset styles characteristic of the WBH series.

The raised panels, alloy steel marking, and cadmium finish suggest production during the 1943-1945 wartime years.

Fig. 121. Vlchek WBH3032 15/16x1 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1947 to Late 1940s.

Fig. 121 shows a later Vlchek WBH3032 15/16x1 offset box-end wrench with a flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side.

The back side shank also has a forged-in number "12" visible at the left.

The overall length is 14.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished ends.

The flat shank was standard for the WBH series from around 1947 onward. The marking style using both sides was used until about 1950, after which a single-sided marking style became standard.

Chrome plated finishes were standard in the post-war era for civilian production, so the plain finish on this example suggests production for the military.

WBH3436 1-1/16x1-1/8 Offset Box-End Wrench

Fig. 122. Vlchek WBH3436 1-1/16x1-1/8 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1943-1945.

Fig. 122 shows a Vlchek WBH3436 1-1/16x1-1/8 offset box wrench with raised panels, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side panel. The forged-in number is "4", visible at the left in the lower inset.

The overall length is 16.3 inches, and the finish is cadmium plating.

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the mix of angled and offset styles characteristic of the WBH series.

The raised panels, alloy steel marking, and cadmium finish suggest production during the 1943-1945 wartime years.

WBH4648 1-7/16x1-1/2 Offset Box-End Wrench

In case some readers were thinking that Vlchek only made small to medium-sized wrenches, the next figure shows a much larger example of the WBH series.

Fig. 123. Vlchek WBH4648 1-7/16x1-1/2 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1943-1945.

Fig. 123 shows a Vlchek WBH4648 1-7/16x1-1/2 offset box wrench with raised panels, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional sizes on the front panel, stamped "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side panel.

The overall length is 19.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished ends and panels. The forged-in number is "2".

The raised panels, alloy steel marking, and plain finish suggest production during the 1943-1945 wartime years. This model is actually the largest of the WBH series wrenches, at least according to the 1952 catalog.

Combination Wrenches

Vlchek began producing combination wrenches in the late 1930s, possibly initially for the Western Auto ChromeXQuality brand. Vlchek-branded combination wrenches were not listed in the 1938 catalog A4, but probably followed soon after this date. (Combination wrenches were definitely available by 1949.) The wrenches were assigned model numbers with a WBE prefix followed by the size in 32nds, e.g. WBE24 for a 3/4 size.

Combination wrenches were produced in three stylistic variations. The earliest wrenches were made with raised panels on the shank, followed by a wide flat shank, and finally by a narrow flat shank. Catalogs from 1949 and 1952 show the combination wrenches with a wide flat shank. An example of an early Vlchek combination wrench can be seen as the ChromeXQuality WBE18 Combination Wrench.

Alloy Content

Vlchek's early combination wrenches for the ChromeXQuality brand were made of chrome molybdenum steel, Vlchek's preferred alloy for that time. Later catalogs from 1949 and 1952 were less specific in noting just "alloy steel" for combination wrenches, and the wrenches were usually marked "Alloy" but sometimes "Chrome Alloy".

Although at first combination wrenches were offered only in alloy steel, somewhat later an economy brand "Motiv" offered wrenches made with a less expensive steel. (See the later section on Motiv Brand Economy Tools.)

WBE16 1/2 Combination Wrench

Fig. 124. Vlchek WBE16 1/2 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1953 to Early 1960s.

Fig. 124 shows a Vlchek WBE16 1/2 combination wrench with a narrow shank, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional size on the front, with no markings on the back side. The shank also has a forged-in number "6" visible at the left.

The overall length is 6.9 inches, and the finish is chrome plating, with minor losses due to rust.

The inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the typical Vlchek production characteristics. Note especially the relatively thin box end and the sharp grinding radii at both ends.

WBE18 9/16 Combination Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the Vlchek WBE18 combination wrench.

Fig. 125. Vlchek WBE18 9/16 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Back Side, ca. 1942-1945.

Fig. 125 shows an earlier Vlchek WBE18 9/16 combination wrench with raised panels, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional size on the front panel, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back panel.

The overall length is 7.5 inches.

No forged-in number was noted. The wrench shows traces of gray paint, probably from the original finish.

The paneled shank with a painted finish and "Alloy Steel" marking suggest production during the 1942-1945 wartime years.

Fig. 126. Vlchek WBE18 9/16 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Back Side Detail, ca. 1947-1953.

Fig. 126 shows a later Vlchek WBE18 9/16 combination wrench with a flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" with the model number and fractional size on the front, with "Chrome Alloy" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side.

The overall length is 7.5 inches.

The shank also has a forged-in number "7" (faintly) visible at the left.

The wide flat shank on this example suggests production from around 1947 to about 1953.

WBE20 5/8 Combination Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the Vlchek WBE20 combination wrench.

Fig. 127. Vlchek WBE20 5/8 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Edge View, ca. 1947-1953.

Fig. 127 shows an earlier Vlchek WBE20 5/8 combination wrench with a flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional size on the front, with no markings on the back side.

The overall length is 8.2 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The shank has a forged-in number "6" visible at the left.

The inset shows an edge view of the wrench, providing a good example of Vlchek production characteristics. Note especially the relatively thin box end and the sharp grinding radii at both ends.

Fig. 128. Vlchek WBE20 5/8 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Edge View, ca. 1953 to Early 1960s.

Fig. 128 shows a somewhat later Vlchek WBE20 5/8 combination wrench with a narrow shank, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional size on the front, with no markings on the back side.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The shank has a forged-in number "9" visible at the left.

The top inset shows an edge view of the wrench, providing a good example of Vlchek production characteristics. Note especially the relatively thin box end and the sharp grinding radii at both ends.

The wrench has a narrower shank than the example in the previous figure. Based on a catalog review, the bar-type narrow shank was produced from about 1953 onward.

WBE22 11/16 Combination Wrench

Fig. 129. Vlchek WBE22 11/16 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1947-1953.

Fig. 129 shows a Vlchek WBE22 11/16 combination wrench with a wide flat shank, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional size on the front, with no markings on the back side. The shank also has a forged-in number "5" visible at the left.

The overall length is 8.9 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the typical Vlchek production characteristics. Note especially the relatively thin box end and the sharp grinding radii at both ends.

The wide flat shank on this example suggests production from around 1947 to about 1953.

WBE24 3/4 Combination Wrenches

The next figures show two generations of the Vlchek WBE24 wrench.

Fig. 130. Vlchek WBE24 3/4 Combination Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1942-1945.

Fig. 130 shows an earlier Vlchek WBE24 3/4 combination wrench with raised panels, stamped "Vlchek" with the model and fractional sizes on the front panel, with "Alloy Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." on the back side panel. The shank has a forged-in number "3" visible at the left.

The overall length is 9.7 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The paneled shank with a plain finish and alloy steel marking suggest production during the 1942-1945 wartime years.

Fig. 131. Vlchek WBE24 3/4 Combination Wrench, ca. 1953 to Early 1960s.

Fig. 131 shows a later Vlchek WBE24 3/4 combination wrench with a narrow shank, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional size, with no markings on the back side. The shank also has a forged-in number "13" visible at the left.

The overall length is 9.7 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The narrow shank indicates production from 1953 onward.

WBE28 7/8 Combination Wrench

Fig. 132. Vlchek WBE28 7/8 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Edge View, ca. 1953 to Early 1960s.

Fig. 132 shows a Vlchek WBE28 7/8 combination wrench with a narrow shank, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional size, with no markings on the back side.

The shank also has a forged-in number "2" visible at the left.

The overall length is 11.3 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The narrow shank indicates production from 1953 onward.

WBE30 15/16 Combination Wrench

Fig. 133. Vlchek WBE30 15/16 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Edge View, ca. 1953 to Early 1960s.

Fig. 133 shows a Vlchek WBE30 15/16 combination wrench with a narrow shank, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional size, with no markings on the back side.

The overall length is 12.2 inches, and the finish is chrome plating, with extensive losses due to rust and wear.

The shank has a forged-in number "3..." visible at the left.

The narrow shank indicates production from 1953 onward.

WBE32 1 Inch Combination Wrench

Fig. 134. Vlchek WBE32 1 Inch Combination Wrench, with Inset for Edge View, ca. 1953 to Early 1960s.

Fig. 134 shows a Vlchek WBE32 1 inch combination wrench with a narrow shank, stamped "Vlchek" and "Alloy U.S.A." with the model number and fractional size, with no markings on the back side.

The overall length is 13.2 inches, and the finish is chrome plating, with extensive losses due to rust and wear.

The shank also has a forged-in number "2.." visible at the left.

The narrow shank indicates production from 1953 onward.

Early Sockets and Drive Tools

Interchangeable sockets and drive tools were one of the most important tool-related developments of the 20th century, but for whatever reason Vlchek Tool chose not to compete in this area during its early years, for a span of nearly four decades.

Then during a brief period in the mid 1930s, Vlchek finally started offering sockets and drive tools. The company's early production of socket tools is known only from catalog A-2 of 1934, and at this time socket tools were offered in 3/8, 1/2, and 3/4-drive. The 1934 catalog offered an extensive selection of socket tools, including ratchets, sliding Tee handles, flex handles and speeders in multiple sizes, sockets with hexagon, double-hex, and square broachings, and even universal sockets.

Vlchek found at least some success with its socket tools, as its reversible ratchet was supplied to the Sears Craftsman line. But then the socket tools vanished as quickly as they had arrived — by catalog A-4 of 1938 Vlchek socket tools were no longer available.

As a side note, in the mid to late 1950s Vlchek again began offering sockets and drive tools, and the 1957 Vlchek catalog listed socket tools in 1/4-drive up through 3/4-drive. But in Vlchek's later period, the known examples bear a close resemblance to 1950s-era tools from Fleet and Penens, two companies in the Proto Tool family. (E.g. the 2805 Extension.) These considerations strongly suggest that the later socket tools were produced under contract manufacture, rather than developed internally. We'll take a look at these Later Socket Tools in another section.

Vlchek sockets and drive tools from their 1930s period are less commonly found, reflecting the fact that they were were available only for a relatively short period.

1/2-Drive Socket Tools

Fig. 135A. 1934 Catalog Listing for Vlchek 1/2-Drive WSS Series.

Vlchek's 1/2-drive tools were given model numbers in a WSS series, with the trailing "S" a mnemonic for "Standard".

The scan in Fig. 135A shows the listing for the Vlchek 1/2-drive WSS series sockets and drive tools, as published on page 9 of the 1934 catalog A-2.

We'll begin this section with an example of the early 1/2-drive Vlchek ratchet.

WSSR10 1/2-Drive Reversible Ratchet

Fig. 135B. Vlchek WSSR10 1/2-Drive Reversible Ratchet, with Insets for Back Side and Edge View, ca. Mid 1930s.

Fig. 135B shows a 1/2-drive Vlchek WSSR10 ratchet of distinctive design, marked with "Drop Forged" forged into the handle, with "Made in U.S.A." forged into the opposite side.

The overall length is 9.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The ratchet mechanism uses a dual-pawl design with a 28-tooth drive gear.

WSS331 1/2-Drive 31/32 Socket

Shortly after acquiring the ratchet in the above figure, we were fortunate to acquire an early Vlchek socket from another collector. The socket appears to date from approximately the same time frame as the ratchet, early to mid 1930s, and indicates again that Vlchek at least experimented with socket production at this early time.

Fig. 137. Vlchek WSS331 1/2-Drive 31/32 Socket, with Inset for Broaching, ca. Mid 1930s.

Fig. 137 shows a 1/2-drive Vlchek WSS331 31/32 socket, marked "Chrome Molybdenum" with the Vlchek name. The finish is polished steel.

The inset shows the broached opening, and the chatter marks on the wall indicate cold-broached manufacture. The band of finely detailed cross-hatched knurling resembles the knurling on sockets from New Britain.

Another detail worth noting is that the drive end of the socket has a small recess in each wall, a convenience feature to help retain the socket on its drive stud. Although common today, this was rather uncommon in the early to mid 1930s, due to the additional work required to machine the recesses.

WSS325 1/2-Drive 25/32 Socket

Fig. 138. Vlchek WSS325 1/2-Drive 25/32 Socket, with Inset for Broaching, ca. Mid 1930s.

Fig. 138 shows a 1/2-drive Vlchek WSS325 25/32 socket, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" with the Vlchek name and model number.

The finish is plain steel, with extensive pitting due to rust.

The socket has a band of finely detailed cross-hatched knurling at the base, resembling the knurling found on sockets from New Britain.

WSS426 1/2-Drive 13/16 Deep Socket

Fig. 139. Vlchek WSS426 1/2-Drive Deep 13/16 Socket, with Insets for Broaching and Marking Detail, ca. Mid 1930s.

Fig. 139 shows a 1/2-drive Vlchek WSS426 deep 13/16 socket, stamped "Vlchek" with the size and model number, and with "Chrome Molybdenum" above.

The finish is plain steel, with extensive pitting due to rust.

The socket has a band of finely detailed cross-hatched knurling at the base, resembling the knurling found on sockets from New Britain.

3/8-Drive Socket Tools

Vlchek's 3/8-drive tools were given model numbers in a WSL series.

WSLR6 3/8-Drive Ratchet

Fig. 140A. Vlchek WSLR6 3/8-Drive Ratchet, with Insets for Back Side and Side View, ca. Mid 1930s.

Fig. 140A shows a 3/8-drive Vlchek WSLR6 ratchet of distinctive design, marked with "Drop Forged" forged into the shank, with "Made in U.S.A." forged into the opposite side.

The overall length is 6.6 inches, and the finish shows some traces of the original plating, probably nickel.

The most unusual feature of this ratchet is its linear slide shift lever, seen in the photograph with its "ON" and "OFF" directional arrows. The lever has a slot that slips over the pivot pin of the pawl, to maintain alignment, and an offset hole in the lever engages a pin at the top of the pawl.

The sliding motion of the shifter then imparts a rotation to the pawl, and shifts it to the opposite side of the detent.

Apart from the unique shift arrangement, the design of the ratchet is very similar to the pivoting pawl design developed by Snap-On in the early 1930s. (See patent #1,854,513 for more information.) The ratchet mechanism has a 20-tooth drive gear, and the pivoting pawl has a single tooth on each side. A spring-loaded detent ball returns the pawl to its selected position.

3/4-Drive Socket Tools

Vlchek's 3/4-drive tools were given model numbers in a WSH series.

WSH334 3/4-Drive 1-1/16 12-Point Socket

Fig. 140B. Vlchek WSH334 3/4-Drive 1-1/16 Socket, with Inset for Broaching, ca. Mid 1930s.

Fig. 140B shows a 3/4-drive Vlchek WSH334 1-1/16 socket, stamped "Chrome Molybdenum" with the Vlchek name and model.

The finish is plain steel.

As with the previous figure, the drive end of the socket has a small recess in each wall, a convenience feature to help retain the socket on its drive stud.