Gilbert D Beardsley

52897451, Mar 1, 1994

Apr 6, 1993

8/044574

Gilbert D. Beardsley - Wickliffe KY

B25B 1300

811772

A socket tool extension element includes a latching mechanism for automatically securing a socket to a driven stud on one end of the extension simultaneously with the attachment of a wrench drive stud to a socket portion at the opposite end of the extension. A captive latch ball projecting from an opening on one side face of the driven stud is constantly biased to the projected position by one end of a compression spring housed within a latching bore angularly disposed relative the longitudinal axis of the extension element. The other end of the compression spring constantly engages a bearing member which in turn biases against a lock pin slidably disposed within a bore axially extending from the socket portion to the driven stud of the extension element. In an at-rest condition and with a socket attached to the driven stud, the socket is manually attachable and removable from the driven stud and temporarily retained thereupon by the yieldably biased latch ball. Thereafter, upon the attachment of a wrench drive stud to the extension socket portion, the drive stud engages an end of the lock pin, causing its axial displacement to force the bearing member toward the captive latch ball and full compressing the helicies of the compression spring so as to preclude any inward deflection of the latch ball such that the attached socket is non-removably retained or locked upon the extension element as long as the wrench drive stud is connected thereto.