timing woodruff key

[intimdatr]

i was reading somewhere about having the woodruff key that held the timing gear on had worn down pretty good. how common is this? and is it worth changing the key and re-timing the engine while doing a new A/C pump and PS pump and changing a few barrings that are driving me insane

Thanks, David.

 

[SHOtimer]

That is whats considered on this forum as "crank cancer" - that only happens when the crank bolt wasn't tightened enough, or comes loose for some other reason. If the bolt is loose the timing sprocket isn't held tight and the key way on the sprocket and the key itself gets worn down.

How old is your timing belt? If you don't know it may be worth doing the 60k service and bringing everything up to spec.

Those parts (the woodruff key, sprocket) only get replaced if they have been ruined. They are made to last the lifetime of the motor, and if treated properly they will.

Doug

 

[intimdatr]

Thanks! learned something today.
my father replaced the belt and the censor, ohhh 15ish years ago. Probably time for a new one.

David

 

[shoon]

Dealing with the same thing right now. Here is a link to the thread with some pictures:
http://www.shoforum.com/showthread.php?t=116675

Part of the problem is that the timing sprocket will actually wear into the crank, so even if you have a new sprocket, it might not fit as tight as it should.

 

[intimdatr]

luckily i dont think its an issues yet. hopefully i'll have sometime this summer to take the cover off and check everything and make sure it isnt going to be a problem.