Anyone have "date codes for S-K ratchets?

[mrchuck]

I have acquired a 3/8" S-K ratchet wrench, Frankenstein push thru button type.
Took it apart to clean it up.
Under the C clip is AL.
This must be a date code.
There are no numbers on the handle. Just S-K logo early version inside a diamond.
Also USA next to this logo.
No numbers, so it is an early made S-K.
36 tooth count.
Superb shape, like new.
I would like to know how old?
Photos to follow if needed, but hoping a list of mfg codes is out there.

[bonneyman]

I started a list of S-K tool dates, based on box logos and tool stampings. Didn't get very far before my line of reasoning ran out. AA has about the best info out there, but, sadly, they don't list date codes.

[skfarmer]

not as old as you think. i would put the earliest date possible for a frankenstein at about 1980, give or take. most of them have a very nice chrome finish and black oxide drive. that is a clear giveaway that they  are not that old.  older ratchets had satin finish guts.

[chopper1]

Except for the size, it's identical to the 1/2" I picked up today.  I was wondering about the age also.

[plinker]

I would bet that the markings where the retaining clip/ring tips are is just a factory code of sorts for which die/mold/tooling was used. 
I dont think they are an actual date code Llike Snap-on has.

[stephen9666]

I would bet that the markings where the retaining clip/ring tips are is just a factory code of sorts for which die/mold/tooling was used. 
I dont think they are an actual date code Llike Snap-on has.

This is what I'm thinking, as well. I believe they're just forging codes. I've never seen a list anywhere saying they're date codes or showing how to decipher them.

But, it looks like the new ratchets may have date codes. I got a 3/8" drive SK ratchet last year directly from the company as a warranty replacement. It has the code "AA" stamped on it. I can only assume A=1, so AA would be 11, meaning 2011.

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