Topic: Restoring 65 Mustang Ratcheting Jack Handle

[Bob Gaines]

Hard to tell from those pics.  Most common I have seen is clear zinc.

+1

[Hipo giddyup]

Pulling up this old thread.. can anyone explain the best method and tools used to open the ratcheting handle? My ratchet will work one way but not so much the other. I'm guessing something is broke inside?

[CharlesTurner]

The tabs would have to be turned out, but then you risk weakening the metal and the tabs breaking off.  Best to find another handle in working condition or just use it for display.

[jwc66k]

The tabs would have to be turned out, but then you risk weakening the metal and the tabs breaking off.  Best to find another handle in working condition or just use it for display.

I've disassembled about a dozen by bending the tabs (I use a 1 ton arbor press), bead blasting most of the parts, getting them plated and then reassembling them by pressing tabs back. I've never had a problem with tabs' breaking. The biggest problem is the spring. It gets broken or worse - lost.
Jim

[Hipo giddyup]

 I guess my spring is weak in the tightening direction. If I hold my finger against the pin, or selector, that it will tighten and catch the gears every time. When the pin is in the removal position, it has no problem. Guess I best leave well enough alone as the plating is still good on this ratchet handle.