Can't get this keyway off...

[stumpfield]

Is there an easier way or tricks to remove the keyway that got stuck in the shaft?
I need to replace the drive spocket and bearing of my trencher. The gear puller by itself didn't do the job. I finally have to split the spocket with a grinder to loosen it then pull it off. However, the keyway still in the slot. I tried cut through the middle to relief the stress and chisel it off but no luck. Any tips to get this thing off is greatly appriciated.

 

[AlanB]

I would weld a bead along the key, not key to shaft, but just a stringer along the top of the key itself.

The heat / cool cycle, then grab it really tight (all you can squeeze) with a pair of vice grips, then smack the vice grips with a dead blow.

You can also weld a bolt or something to pry on across the top, then hit or pry on that.

Of course you loose the key, but they are generally pretty inexpensive, and not worth trying to save unless they are something odd.

Is this a dozer chunk? Ooppps, sorry, just re-read the trencher note.

 

[Paddy]

Soak with PB Blaster. Wait 24 hr. (this is the hardest part for most) Now, heat with propane torch until your arm get sore holding it. Pull out the center point punch and drive it along the groove. Tap the top of the key a few times along the way.

If this gets to the point you start to damage the shaft, you are getting to carried away. Much heat and PB blaster....oh and time. Don't be in a hurry. Replacing the shaft can be expensive and timely!

Patrick T

 

[SPYDERLK]

Is there an easier way or tricks to remove the keyway that got stuck in the shaft?
I need to replace the drive spocket and bearing of my trencher. The gear puller by itself didn't do the job. I finally have to split the spocket with a grinder to loosen it then pull it off. However, the keyway still in the slot. I tried cut through the middle to relief the stress and chisel it off but no luck. Any tips to get this thing off is greatly appriciated.

Before you cut a slot there is a pretty effective way. This is to lube it, heat the shaft til the lube bubbles, then put a piece of metal of one end of the key and strike it smartly with a hammer. This should drive that end of the key down toward the shaft and cause the half moon to rotate the other end up and outward. Now do the same to the other end, repeatedly rocking the key back and forth. Eventually it will loosen enuf that a vise grip will take it out. This method may not be effective after you have cut it down the center, which itself is a good method, altho sacrificial. I think you would best continue cutting to the bottom of the key. Then it will collapse and come right out. A Dremel abrasive cutting disc oughta be about the right size. Theyre fragile so youll probably go thru several. If you dont have a Dremel tool maybe a friend does and you can borrow. Good luck!
larry

 

[CurlyDave]

I use a variation of the method suggested by SPYDERLK.

Lube with penetrating oil, and use a drift punch (one that tapers to a flat face) of about the same diameter as the key to drive one end of the crescent shaped socket into the shaft. If you don't have the right drift punch, a beefy pin punch will also work (1/4" minimum). If you use a pin punch, be prepared to have to grind the face down flat after you use it this way.

Take your time lining things up and the give it as stout a blow as you can muster up. Don't be a wimp with the hammer, and use a good heavy hand sledge.

If you can put the other side of the shaft on an anvil, so much the better.

 

[Skyco]

I've been amazed at the times an air hammer/chisel has gotten things loose for me when repeated blows with a big hammer did nothing.

 

[stumpfield]

Have been soaking it with PB Blaster for a few days and tried to get it off with a hammer and chisel. Still not out yet. I'm taking my time afraid I might damage the shaft and whatever behind it. I only have access to one end of the shaft.

 

[AlanB]

Have been soaking it with PB Blaster for a few days and tried to get it off with a hammer and chisel. Still not out yet. I'm taking my time afraid I might damage the shaft and whatever behind it. I only have access to one end of the shaft.

Weld, hammer up (weld a bolt across it horizontally)

 

[SPYDERLK]

Have been soaking it with PB Blaster for a few days and tried to get it off with a hammer and chisel. Still not out yet. I'm taking my time afraid I might damage the shaft and whatever behind it. I only have access to one end of the shaft.

Did you try what Dave and I told you? A chisel is not the tool for an immobile key.
larry

 

[stumpfield]

Finally... I got the keyway out. More grinding, hammer and chisel did the job. Next is to get that bearing out. I'm having a tough time removing the snap ring in front of the bearing. I'll just keep spray PB bluster into it and let it soap for a few days. Any tips on removing that snap ring? I don't care if I have to break it. I got a new one with the replacement bearing.