Can't Drive Key out of Steering Worm Gear Shaft
Posted: Thu May 20, 2004 9:34 pm
Help!
I'd appreciate recommendations on driving the Woodruff Key out of the worm wheel shaft. I'm replacing the oil seal, which appears to have been leaking for a long time considering the thick grease accumulated below it in the steering gear housing. I removed the castle nut, the steering gear arm, and even though I couldn't get the key out, I was able to drive the shaft and gear out through the old seal with the key in place. But I'm afraid if I put it back together that way the key will damage the new seal. I tried knocking it out with a punch, and also tried using a prick punch and a hammer to start a corner of it outward, but only succeeded in gouging the end of the key a little bit. So I decided to stop and seek help from you guys.
What should I do?
Thanks!
I'd appreciate recommendations on driving the Woodruff Key out of the worm wheel shaft. I'm replacing the oil seal, which appears to have been leaking for a long time considering the thick grease accumulated below it in the steering gear housing. I removed the castle nut, the steering gear arm, and even though I couldn't get the key out, I was able to drive the shaft and gear out through the old seal with the key in place. But I'm afraid if I put it back together that way the key will damage the new seal. I tried knocking it out with a punch, and also tried using a prick punch and a hammer to start a corner of it outward, but only succeeded in gouging the end of the key a little bit. So I decided to stop and seek help from you guys.
What should I do?
Thanks!