Tips for how to unstuck a key from flange coupler

[Statistical]

Had to remove propshaft flange coupler. Surprisingly it wasn't terrible. Got it off. However now the key is stuck in the flange instead of remaining in the keyway of the prop shaft. Any tips on how to break it loose without damaging the coupling.

[motion30]

A small flat punch should knock it right out

[Statistical]

Originally Posted by motion30

A small flat punch should knock it right out

Yeah I have tried it is stuck good. The key is deformed. Never thought the hard part would be the damn key.

[Bowdrie]

A simple setup with an arbor press will get it out without damage to the coupling/flange.

[Statistical]

Originally Posted by Bowdrie

A simple setup with an arbor press will get it out without damage to the coupling/flange.

I don't have access to an arbor press but I wonder if a vise and a punch could do the same thing.

[more]

Originally Posted by Statistical

I don't have access to an arbor press but I wonder if a vise and a punch could do the same thing.

arbor press dont work here.you need mechanic shop with hydraulic presses .
i remember first time i be in your problem 100 Tonn press dont working.but lucky we havein this time big mining eqipment repair shop with 1000T press.
for key removing make strong steel(from screwdriver,punchture toll) and come from behinde key and good old hamer

[Statistical]

Originally Posted by motion30

A small flat punch should knock it right out

Update got it out. Used a small punch on the side which was deep in the flange to push the other end like 1/16th of an inch past the edge of the flange. That was a hard fought 1/16th of an inch. Lots of sweating and cursing.

Once the other end of the key was proud to the surface of the flange used a cold chisel at an angle to push it out of the keyway. That went a lot faster just a couple taps.

Still what a chore. Took longer to remove the key from the flange than the flange from the propshaft. I was all excited with how easy the flange came off.

[Jim Cate]

I was all excited with how easy the flange came off.

In your excitement you likely missed hearing Murphy cracking up, sitting on your spreaders and watching your struggles!

Well done, BTW.

Jim

[thinwater]

Originally Posted by Statistical

Yeah I have tried it is stuck good. The key is deformed. Never thought the hard part would be the damn key.

I would have suggested a cold chisel ground for that specific purpose. I keep a set with differing widths. Also good for cleaning up keyways and removing rivets in tight quarters.

Basically a cape chisel ground to have only one cutting face will pop them right out.

Sort of an old school tool. Mine are nearly 100 years old.