Snap-on Incorporated
INTERNAL GEAR RETENTION MECHANISM

Abstract:

A retaining structure for a drive gear of a ratchet wrench. The drive gear has a partial internal bore that receives a gear retainer that is coupled to the tool housing via screws. The gear retainer can further be rotatably coupled to the drive gear to retain the drive gear within the head of the tool without requiring a cover plate. By potentially avoiding the cover plate, the ratchet wrench head can be thinner compared to conventional ratchet wrenches and the ratchet wrench seal can be improved.