Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

My snowblower was groaning something awful when engaging the blower unit.  I found a new  bearing that matches the one that wore out. Now I need to get the old bearing off the shaft. 
The bearing would slide right off if it is was not for  this small rectangular  metal key that slides into a slot on the shaft. Anyone ever deal with one of these?. Do I need a special tool? I have a Harbor Freight nearby with all sorts of strange inexpensive tools.  If only I knew what to look for.   If I ever do get the key out, how will I get it back in ?

Is the metal key a "one use"  type of device. So I'll need to find a replacement? Maybe this is whey the bearing was never replaced sooner.  Sorry for so many questions. 

There is nothing but friction holding the key in place.  Sometimes you have to be careful it doesn't
fall out on its own.  I'd just take a punch (or a screwdriver you don't care about) and hit the end that's
sticking out from underneath (in your photo) so it lifts up out of the groove.  Once it's lifted a bit you
can drive a small screwdriver under it to lift the other end or just keep at it with your punch.  It should
pop right out but sometimes it can be a bit stuck.  If you dent the key in any way getting it out just file
off the protrusions.  This is not a delicate part.  When reinstalling just tap it in lightly with a hammer.
It would be best if it didn't stick out past the end of the shaft.

The half moon keys that go in a groove that doesn't go to the end of the shaft can be harder
to get out, as I discovered yesterday.

Paul

pvrp wrote:

So is there a slot or something I don't see that holds the key in place.  Does it get inserted from the end and then tapped in, or does it just get tapped in on its side, the long way?

Why does it not just fall out? There does not appear to be a taper. 

It's just a tight fit, sometimes not so tight.  No slots or taper or anything.  If it doesn't move
easily there might be some rust but it shouldn't be that hard to remove.  I doubt you'll damage
it very much getting it out.

To re-install just tap it in on the side, not from the end.  Put some grease on it
so it'll be easier next time.

Paul

pvrp wrote: Thanks, I think I get it now. 

Is this the Yamaha?

Friiy

If you loose it you can get new ones at a Lawn and Garden centre. They charge a buck or two to cut a piece of the bar stock or you can get a bar and cut your own for less then $10. To cut it you just score one side of the bar and bend it. You can also use a dremel cutoff wheel.