Straight

The Straight Shaft Key – 1/4" x 1/4" x 3" is a precision shaft key used to mechanically lock compatible keyed shafts, hubs, sprockets, pulleys, couplings, and other rotating components together.

The square key fits into matching keyways in both the shaft and mounted component, helping transfer rotational torque while preventing the component from slipping independently on the shaft.

Features

• Type: Straight Shaft Key
• Width: 1/4"
• Height: 1/4"
• Length: 3"
• Square straight-key design
• Designed for compatible 1/4" keyways
• Helps prevent rotational slippage between a shaft and mounted component
• Suitable for garage door, overhead door, operator, and general mechanical applications where matching keyways are used
• Useful for repair, replacement, and installation work

How It Works

A shaft key creates a positive mechanical connection between a rotating shaft and a component mounted to that shaft.

The key sits partially inside the shaft keyway and partially inside the matching keyway of the hub, sprocket, pulley, or coupling. This allows torque from the shaft to be transferred directly to the attached component.

Correct key dimensions are important for a secure fit and reliable torque transfer.

Compatibility

This straight shaft key is intended for components using a compatible 1/4" wide x 1/4" deep-style keyway arrangementwhere a 3" key length is appropriate.

Potential applications can include compatible:

• Torsion shafts
• Operator shafts
• Sprockets
• Pulleys
• Couplings
• Chain-drive components
• Jackshaft assemblies
• Mechanical hubs
• Other keyed rotating assemblies

Compatibility is determined by the shaft diameter, keyway dimensions, hub specifications, and required key length, not by garage door brand alone.

Important – Not Recommended for Cable Drums

This straight shaft key is not recommended for use with garage door cable drums.

Use the key type and dimensions specified for the particular cable drum and torsion system.

Do not substitute this straight key for a cable-drum key unless the drum manufacturer or system specifications specifically allow it.

Verify Before Ordering

Confirm:

• Required key width: 1/4"
• Required key height: 1/4"
• Required key length: 3"
• Shaft keyway dimensions
• Hub or component keyway dimensions
• Application requirements

The key should fit correctly without excessive looseness, binding, or modification.

Applications

Suitable for compatible:

• Garage door shaft assemblies
• Commercial overhead door equipment
• Garage door operators
• Jackshaft systems
• Sprocket installations
• Pulley assemblies
• Mechanical couplings
• Equipment repair and maintenance

Specifications

Product Type: Straight Shaft Key
Size: 1/4" x 1/4" x 3"
Width: 1/4"
Height: 1/4"
Length: 3"
Application: Keyed Shaft and Hub Connections
Cable Drum Use: Not Recommended

Package Contents

• 1 × Straight Shaft Key – 1/4" x 1/4" x 3"

Installation

Before installation:

• Verify the shaft and component use matching keyways
• Confirm the required key size and length
• Inspect the keyways for damage or excessive wear
• Seat the key correctly in the shaft keyway
• Make sure the mounted component fully engages the key
• Secure the component according to its installation requirements

Do not grind, force, or significantly modify an incorrectly sized shaft key to make it fit.

Safety

Rotating shaft assemblies can cause serious injury if installed incorrectly.

Disconnect and secure powered equipment before servicing shafts, sprockets, pulleys, operators, or related components. Installation should be performed by a qualified technician or someone experienced with the applicable mechanical system.