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Mobility Scooters

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Axle Keys (woodruff keys)

Axle Keys (woodruff keys)

Axle keys are a piece of hardware that is essential to keep the rear wheel revolving on the revolving shaft of the transaxle, sometimes easily lost or misplaced when removing a rear wheel.

They slot in to the keyway on the axle that is cut  in to the shaft they may be called axle keys and sometimes as woodruff keys.

We supply these  in various  sizes for a large range of mobility scooter manufacturers including Pride, Sunrise Medical, Electric Mobility, Invacare, Shoprider, Kymco, Days Healthcare, Rascal & Strider & others.

Mobility scooter Axle Keys guide

Scooter axle keys (also commonly referred to as woodruff keys) are tiny components in the drivetrain that transfer power from the motor to the rear wheels.They are essential for getting those wheels spinning. Sometimes, axle keys deteriorate, and it’s important to replace them for your mobility scooter to work effectively. That’s why we stock a wide variety of high-quality axle keys right here.

Axle Keys (woodruff keys) FAQs

Why Axle Keys are important on mobility scooters

They may look small, but axle keys actually play an enormous role in transmitting rotational force from the transaxle to the wheel. When correctly fitted, the motor rotates, the axle turns, and the wheelswork properly for a smooth ride. However,poorly fitted or damaged axle keys may lead to the scooter being unable to move altogether.

What are the most common Axle Key problems?

There are many potential instances in which axle keys do not work as they should, and here are the most common. 

  • Lost axle keys: It’s common for axle keys to slide off during wheel removal and, because they are so small, to become lost altogether.
  • Wear and deformation: Over time, heavy loads can wear down the edges of the axle key, causing rounded edges, flattening, scoring, and bending.
  • Wrong key size: Using the wrong key size may lead to wobbling, sitting at an angle, or damage to the hub or shaft.
  • Shearing under load: Sometimes, a key can break or shear because of a heavy load.
  • Corrosion and dirt: Too much moisture, dirt, and corrosion can damage the keyway and prevent correct seating. This is particularly common in older scooters kept outdoors.

Why is replacing an Axle Key important?

If you have problems with an axle key, it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Otherwise, your scooter may experience problems such as jerking, wheel hub damage, or the inability to move altogether. This can greatly impact safety – particularly when it comes to sudden sliding on ramps or while crossing roads.

How do I replace an Axle Key?

The good news is that, even if your axle key no longer works as it should, it’s easy enough to find a replacement and fit the new one yourself. Here’s how it works. 

  1. Switch the mobility scooter off and remove the key.
  2. Remove the rear wheel to expose the axle and keyway slot.
  3. Check the key and keyway for things like damage, bending, burrs, and rounded edges.
  4. Install the new key by seating it into the keyway slot. It should sit squarely with a tight fit.
  5. Refit the wheel hub and tighten correctly.

How do I choose the correct Axle Key replacement?

If you find you must replace your axle key, it’s important to ensure you choose the right replacement. Otherwise, it won’t fit. To do this, you need to note your scooter's make, model, axle dimensions, and keyway type.Here at Discount Scooters, we have a wide range of mobility scooter axle keys available, all of various sizes to suit many different mobility scooter brands. So, you are sure to find the one you need right here.