Push-on/quick release locking arrangement for socket wrench extension

摘要

The socket wrench extension is provided with a push-on/quick release locking arrangement. The extension has a square drive end having a transverse bore in which the lock balls are mounted for movement between a lock position in which one ball projects from one end of the bore far enough to engage a cooperating cavity in the drive recess of a socket or other tool and a release position in which both balls lie within the cross section of the drive end. One end of the bore being closer to the drive end than the other end of said bore. An axially extending groove intersects the end of the bore further from the end of the extension. A sliding member moves between a lock position and a release position and has said lock tab engaging one of said balls when the member is in its lock position. The member has a limited range of movement enabling the lock tab to be raised above the groove by means of force applied to the tab by the balls. A spring biases the sliding member to its lock position and also biases the member to position the lock tab within the groove.