Keyway, for Generator Or Alternator Pulleys, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, it is often the smallest components that carry the heaviest burden. This EMPI Woodruff Key is the precision-engineered link that locks your generator or alternator pulley to the rotating shaft, ensuring that your cooling fan and charging system spin in perfect synchronization with your engine. Without this tiny but mighty piece of hardened steel, your pulley would simply spin freely on the shaft, leading to an immediate loss of cooling air and a dead battery. Whether you are performing a routine belt adjustment or a complete engine overhaul, having a fresh, unmarred keyway is essential to prevent "shearing," which can cause catastrophic damage to the expensive armature shaft or the pulley itself.

Crafted to exacting OEM specifications, this 3mm x 5mm Woodruff Key is a "must-have" for every VW owner''s toolbox or emergency glovebox kit. It is notorious for disappearing into the depths of the fan shroud during a roadside repair, and trying to "make do" with a worn or damaged key is a recipe for a stranded vehicle. This replacement part is designed to fit snugly into the machined slot of your Bosch-style generator or alternator, providing a rock-solid mechanical connection that withstands the high-RPM demands of a performance flat-four engine. Don''t let a two-dollar part keep your Beetle or Bus off the road; ensure your charging system is locked down tight with this high-quality EMPI component.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle / Bug: 1950 through 1979 (All models with 6V or 12V Generator/Alternator)
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter / Kombi: 1950 through 1971
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 3 Squareback, Fastback, Notchback: 1962 through 1973
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: All Dune Buggies, Sandrails, Trikes, and Kit Cars utilizing a VW Air-Cooled engine platform.

SPECS

• Part Number: N127051
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Type: Woodruff Key (Semi-circular mechanical fastener)
• Dimensions: 3mm Width x 5mm Profile Height
• Material: High-Strength Hardened Carbon Steel
• Finish: Natural Steel / Oil Coated for corrosion resistance
• Application: Secures Generator Pulleys, Alternator Pulleys, and Cooling Fans
• Quantity: Sold Individually (Each)

PRO TIPS

PRO TIP 1: The "Dab of Grease" Trick

One of the most frustrating experiences for a VW mechanic is having the keyway fall out of the shaft and drop into the bottom of the fan shroud just as you are sliding the pulley on. Once it falls in, you often have to pull the entire generator or alternator just to retrieve it. To prevent this, apply a very small dab of heavy wheel bearing grease to the rounded bottom of the Woodruff key before seating it into the shaft. The surface tension of the grease will act like a temporary adhesive, holding the key perfectly level while you align the pulley slot and slide it into position.

PRO TIP 2: Inspect for "Keyway Egging"

Before installing your new key, take a close look at the slot (the keyway) on both the generator shaft and the inside of the pulley. If the previous key was loose or sheared, it may have "egged out" or widened the slot. If there is side-to-side play when you test-fit the new key, the pulley will eventually wobble, vibrate, and shear the new key. If the shaft slot is damaged, you may need to carefully dress it with a fine file, but if the pulley slot is wallowed out, it is time to replace the pulley entirely to save your charging system from future failure.

PRO TIP 3: Proper Torque is Mandatory

The Woodruff key is designed to locate the pulley, but it is the friction created by the nut torque that actually holds the assembly together. When reinstalling your 21mm or 36mm nut (depending on your specific setup), ensure you are reaching the factory torque spec. If the nut is even slightly loose, the pulley will rock back and forth under the tension of the fan belt, putting all the stress on the key. This "hammering" effect is what causes keys to shear. Always double-check your tightness after the first 50 miles of driving following a pulley or belt replacement.