Ken-Tool, a leading name in car tools, boasts a rich history rooted in innovation and a dedication to the tire service industry. The company’s journey, spanning over a century, began in 1920 with John A. Kennedy, a self-proclaimed tire changing champion. This article explores the fascinating history of Ken Tool Co car tools, from its humble beginnings to its current position as an industry powerhouse.
The Birth of an Innovation: The Pacific Rim Tool
Kennedy’s invention, the Pacific Rim Tool, revolutionized tire changing. Endorsed by B. F. Goodrich Company, the tool quickly gained popularity in garages and tire shops nationwide. Lacking manufacturing capabilities, Kennedy partnered with J. Frank Kemmerline of Cornwell Tool Company in 1925, officially establishing the Kennedy Tool Company. The Pacific Rim Tool became their flagship product, with over 100,000 units shipped from their Ohio plant and 20,000 more from England in just one year.
Growth, Conflict, and Rebirth: The Ken-Tool Company Emerges
The ensuing years saw a surge in car ownership and automotive service, fueling the Kennedy Company’s growth. However, differing visions for the future led to a split between Kennedy and Kemmerline in 1938. Kennedy, focused solely on tire tools, left to partner with John Lydle of Rittman Tool and Forge Company, forming the Ken-Tool Company. While Kennedy’s name and reputation were instrumental in the new venture, he passed away within six months, leaving Lydle at the helm.
Wartime Innovation and Post-War Competition
World War II presented new challenges and opportunities. Ken-Tool developed a specialized tool for removing tires from B-29 bombers, a critical solution for the Air Corps. This innovation earned Lydle his first patent and the company three Army E awards for its contributions to the war effort. Meanwhile, Kemmerline’s Kennedy Tool Company expanded its product line beyond tire tools, establishing fierce competition between the two companies.
Consolidation and Market Dominance
Ken-Tool, under Lydle’s leadership, thrived in the post-war era. A focus on tire changing tools, innovative marketing, and a strong trade show presence propelled Ken-Tool to become the dominant market supplier. A pivotal moment arrived in 1958 when Ken-Tool acquired Kennedy Tool Company, solidifying its control over the U.S. tire tool market.
Expansion, Acquisition, and Restructuring
The late fifties saw Ken-Tool introduce the Ken-Tool Gyro-Matic, one of the industry’s first tire changing machines. Lydle eventually merged the Kennedy and Ken-Tool product lines, albeit under separate sales organizations.
In 1966, Ken-Tool was acquired by Cooper Industries, becoming part of the Cooper Tool Group. This led to significant changes, including the discontinuation of the Kennedy brand and a focus on Ken-Tool’s own manufactured products. Cooper Industries later sold Ken-Tool to Warren Tool Corporation in 1974, leading to further product line adjustments and the formation of the Warren Automotive Group. Eventually, Ken-Tool became an independent company in 1994.
Ken-Tool Today: A Legacy of Innovation
Ken-Tool’s history is a testament to its adaptability and commitment to innovation. From the revolutionary Pacific Rim Tool to its modern comprehensive range of car tools, Ken-Tool continues to serve the tire service industry with quality products and a dedication to excellence. The company’s enduring legacy as a leader in the car tool industry is a direct result of its rich history and commitment to “Wherever Tires Are Changed.”
