All jacked up: AUSCO

The Auto Specialties Manufacturing Company, or Ausco, began producing automotive jacks and service equipment in 1915.  They also marketed their products under the trade name "Drednaut."  At one point, the Big Three automakers used their jacks exclusively.  They were headquartered out of Benton Harbor, Michigan but also had a plant in Windsor.  The Windsor facility closed in the 1970's after a long strike.  One person wrote that his father worked there from 1953 to 1970, being paid piece work for pouring castings.  After 17 years of service, he received $14.00 per month in pension.  In 1988 the U.S. Jack Company purchased the product designs and tooling from AUSCO when they discontinued their after-market business.
   

Below, patent for above:

Below, made in Windsor:

 

Below, an example of their "Drednaut" line (a name which they also used for their aftermarket shock absorbers, as their 1922 ad illustrates):