THREAD DIE RETAINING METHOD AND APPARATUS

A retaining socket for receiving a thread die includes a plunge component that is moveable along the longitudinal axis of the retaining socket and at least one pin extending parallel to the longitudinal axis configured to engage the thread die. 1. A retaining socket for receiving a thread die comprising:a body including a longitudinal axis, a handle engaging portion and a thread die receiving cavity; anda plunge component including an annular disc having a central aperture, the plunge component being moveable along the longitudinal axis, and at least one pin extending parallel to the longitudinal axis from the annular disc into the cavity, the at least one pin being configured to engage the thread die.2. The retaining socket of further comprising means for retaining the thread die in the body.3. The retaining socket of wherein the means for retaining includes a magnetic washer.4. The retaining socket of wherein the means for retaining includes a spring-and-ball detent mechanism.5. The retaining socket of wherein the means for retaining includes a magnet disposed in a sidewall of the body.6. A socket for receiving a thread die comprising:a body including a cavity configured to receive a thread die;a plunge component coupled to the body; andmeans coupled to the body for retaining the thread die in the cavity.7. The retaining socket of wherein the plunge component includes at least one pin and a pair of arms claim 6 , the at least one pin being disposed in the body to engage the thread die in response to movement of the arms.8. The retaining socket of wherein the means for retaining includes a magnetic washer.9. The retaining socket of wherein the means for retaining includes a spring-and-ball detent mechanism.10. A socket for receiving a thread die comprising:a body including a cavity configured to receive a thread die;a plunge component coupled to the adaptor body for moving the thread die out of the cavity; andmeans coupled to the body for retaining the thread die ...