Easy question...what is a woodruff key for?

[Ozzie Seadoo]

Ahhh yeah,

May seem like a stupid question to a lot of people, but what is a woodruff key used for?? I'm nearly finished building my engine and can't believe that i am asking this question!

[Technical Support]

Re: Easy question...what is a woodruff key for?

It's simply to help you align the flywhel to the crank.

[Ozzie Seadoo]

Re: Easy question...what is a woodruff key for?

So is it used as some kind of spacer is it? What is the method in which it is used to actually do the job?

Thanks.

[Technical Support]

Re: Easy question...what is a woodruff key for?

It keeps the flywheel aligned while you tighten the end nut/bolt.

[skraggy]

Re: Easy question...what is a woodruff key for?

You have a slot in the crank end,and a slot in the bore of the flywheel.The woodruff key fits in both slots to keep them aligned properly.

There are many other applications for woodruff keys also.Such as keeping pulleys or gears from spinning on shafts.A woodruff key is usually straight on one side and round on the other.Other types of keys are square and rectangular in shape,and server the same purpose as the woodruff key.

[Ozzie Seadoo]

Re: Easy question...what is a woodruff key for?

thanks skraggy, i didn't realise that it was that small thing in the end slot of the crank-i though it was much bigger and placed between the magneto flywheel and stator for spacing. Thanks for clearing that up-funny thing is, i just went to have a look at my crank and that woodruff key has fallen out and dissapeared! oh well-will have to get myself another:o

[harveynailbanger]

Re: Easy question...what is a woodruff key for?

how ya gonna open your woodruff with out a key?