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. 

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.