Big Problem. What can I do?

[littlemess]

Pardon my inability to describe in correct mechanical terminology. Nevertheless, here's my problem. The spindle which the flywheel is mounted to has had the key torn off it. Now of course the flywheel can turn freely without turning over the engine. What can I do to fix this? Would it be an expensive fix? It's a 1979 25 hp Evinrude.

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

Take off the flywheel, clean everything up, buy a new key, torque the flywheel to the factory spec and your done, less than $5.00.

 

[wbeaton]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

That spindle is the crankshaft. Is the grove for the woodruff key ok or is it damaged? If there is no damage other than the key then you can just buy a new key and reinstall the flywheel making sure to torque the nut properly.

Part # 307480

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

buy the oem key that wbeaton, gave you the number. not a part at the hardware store.

 

[Xcusme]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

...more additional bits of info.....make sure the crankshaft taper and flywheel mating surfaces are clean and dry...use no grease or oil..it's a 'dry' fit. I don't have the torque spec handy for your flywheel nut, but be sure to tighten down the flywheel nut to specs or you'll be doing the job again. Insufficient nut torque can/will result in another sheared key.

 

[littlemess]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

The woodruff key was sheered clean off and is now flush with the shaft. I didn't realize it was a woodruff key. I thought it was the way the shaft was machined. I guess I'll have to clean out the slot and find a new woodruff key. Is that all there is too it?

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

That's it.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

besure to troque the flywheel nut to the proper specs,. or it will shear again.

 

[littlemess]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

What would be the best way to remove the sheared off key still left in the slot? Heat it?

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Big Problem. What can I do?

I would avoid heat.Can you take a small punch or chisel and carefully tap it out of the slot? Try not to damage the crank shaft..