Woodruff key
 

I have a question about the woodruff key. Im installing the ATI damper for the first time and have a concern with the key. Can anyone tell me if the key is supposed to get tighter the further it slides into the damper. With lubrication it slides easily on the crank itself but when I try and slide it in the groove on the damper off the crank it goes easily until the very end then it gets extremely tight. My concern is when reading the FM directions they recommend putting the key on only like halfway then installing the damper over it -- after installed they state to tap the key into its final position. However with this tightness in the groove even before putting it on the car I don't think it will slide after installed and furthermore I think the damper will pull the key too far and potentially cause the wobble. Im thinking Ill try and use a new key and see if its just a slightly out of spec key but wanted to see if someone could help me with this. I just don't know what is normal but based on the directions I've read it seems like with lubrication key should move semi easily in both grooves. Thanks for any help.

Radius points to the crank

Yes did that...its not an orientation problem...its the key gets stuck in the damper before its ever installed...like the key tapers out or something. I know I'm not making is super clear but should the key slide freely in the damper before its on the car or does the key taper out and become tight as shit before you every put it on the car?

ATI Damper is PITA to install.

I remember sliding the key halfway in re-adjusting it SEVERAL times as i drive the damper onto the crank. If its too tight, i'll revert it. - i don't like risking keyway damage. Once the damper is on the key shouldn't slide if i recall, it does get very tight.

You should be able to slide the key freely in the damper

Yes it will get tighter the more you slide it in.

.

Ok, I didn't see that this was an ATI .

1. You absolutely have to use CV grease, or you will ruin the damper and your crank. No other expensive grease will work. USE CV GREASE.

2. Heat the damper to about 200°F. Use the oven if you can, or a heat gun. It takes about 15 minutes either way.

3. Grease the crank, keyway and the damper.

4. Install the key about 1/2 way, it's kind of balancing at this point.

5. Using gloves (because it should be 200°F, line up and push on the damper. It should slide on a good bit without any tools.

6. Use a damper pulley install tool to quickly finish installing the damper.

7. The key will find its home if you do it like this. Hardest part is getting it all to line up without knocking the key off when you are getting it started.

One time I did put ice on the crank snout while I was waiting for the pulley to heat up. It slid on about 3/4 of the way by hand. Still use CV grease or it will never come back off.

.

Follow my directions and it is a 5 minute job. Did one last week, and many before that.

Thank you so much for the input