Unknown Tool

[W MacDonald]

Any ideas what this tool is used for?  No markings of any kind.  About 14 Inches long.  The top photo is probably the correct orientation, but not sure. Thanks for your help.

Edited March 30, 2017 by W MacDonald
correction to text (see edit history)

[TheMoneyPit]

It looks like a tool for spreading tires open so you can patch them.

[Restorer32]

Yep, early tires spreader.

[Ron Lawson]

Got one similar These old tools are very simple in design but also very effective when used.

[Spinneyhill]

Unless there is an extension handle, there is not much leverage. The bolt is about in the middle.

[Guest redfern park]

G'day from the land down under.

 

Nice find W MacDonald, it is` simple technology from the past to spread tyres for inspection/repair.

 

The design is not for massive leverage, fully applied the handle goes over centre and locks the spreader open. The tyre (removed from the rim) has the beads spread wide allowing room for old fat fingers and blind eyes like mine to tackle a repair job inside the carcase of the tyre.

 

Tyre shops now have air powered spreaders to pull the beads apart and have the benefit of not having the tool across the opening when working inside the tyre..

 

I believe, the correct orientation is in the lower photo with the "L" or more a "7" shaped tag at the top turned further clockwise to fit into the bead and the curve of the handle pulling over centre and sitting in the opening created. Adjustable for different width tyres.