Yacht Specialties - woodruff key for steering wheel - '80 H27

[txmilke]

Somehow I've managed to lose the key to the wheel steering on my 1980 H27 (Woodruff key?). THis is not good. Evidently the manufacturer (Yacht Specialties) hasn't been around for a while. Does anyone know the dimensions of the key and where I might find one of appropriate dimensions? Also, I've had someone tell me that the stock is impossible to cut to length. Anyone with any experience with the material, which I assume is hardened?
Thanks,
Tom
Rhode River, MD

 

[Ray T]

Woodruff Keys

Woodruff keys ar measured according to width and they are a standard part. Try your hardware store or West marine. If you cant find one locally try McMaster Carr if you cant find it there it isnt being made. You might find one at the marinas in the Mayo area. Ray T

 

[Steve Dion]

Just go to the local Napa Store....

Tom:

Try to determine the size of the keyway. If you cannot measure it precisely, then take your wheel to the store with you.

They sell this key way material in lengths of about 12". You can cut it to size.

It is a good idea to keep some of this material aboard with a device to cut it. Have some material that will fit the prop shaft too.

 

[kloudie1]

Steering Wheel Key

Yes, standard size is the norm for keystock. You’ll probably be looking for 1/8” or 3/16” material.(metric is available as well) For a wheel, consider bronze or stainless stock so you don’t have rust stains on the cockpit floor. Those materials are more difficult to find. The stock is not hardened and can be cut with a hacksaw or a Dremel tool. A good machine shop will have this material and would probably sell you a 1” long piece, or whatever length you'll need. Good Luck, Tom

 

[txmilke]

thanks to all and have the answer

My thanks to you all for your replies. For purposes of those who may be searching the archives in the future, John is correct in stating that it's not technically a Woodruff key, which is shaped. The correct diminsions for the required key material is 1/4" width by 1.5" long. It wasn't available at two West Marine stores that I checked or at an automotive store, but is carried by hardware stores in a form that can be cut to length.
Tom
PS: I'll check the prop situation the next time the boat's out of the water (unless someone knows it offhand)

 

[Steve Dion]

John, Not exactly.

John:

My comment was referring to the other end of the shaft at the transmission coupling. You may not loose your shaft/prop, but it will not turn if you loose the key. If you happen to have some extra material on board, you can save yourself a lot of grief.