4900565
Plain Woodruff Key
Cummins®

The 4900565 Plain Woodruff Key is a component manufactured by Cummins, a well-established name in the automotive industry, particularly known for its contributions to heavy-duty truck components. This key plays a role in ensuring the secure fitting of components on shafts within heavy-duty truck systems.

Basic Concepts of Plain Woodruff Key

A Plain Woodruff Key is a type of key used in mechanical systems to prevent relative rotation between a shaft and the components mounted on it. It is characterized by a semi-circular cross-section that fits into a matching groove cut into the shaft. This design allows for a secure fit that resists both axial and torsional forces. Woodruff Keys are commonly used in various machinery to ensure that gears, pulleys, and other components remain fixed in place on rotating shafts ¹.

Purpose of the 4900565 Plain Woodruff Key

This Cummins part is specifically designed to play a role in the operation of heavy-duty trucks by securing components onto shafts. Its function is to ensure that parts such as gears and pulleys do not move or slip during operation, which is vital for the reliable performance of the truck’s engine and transmission systems.

Key Features

The 4900565 Plain Woodruff Key is distinguished by its material composition, typically made from high-strength steel to withstand the demanding conditions of heavy-duty truck applications. Its dimensions are precisely engineered to fit specific grooves in shafts, ensuring a snug and secure fit. Additionally, the design of the key includes features that enhance its functionality, such as a smooth surface finish to reduce friction and wear.

Benefits of Using a Plain Woodruff Key

Incorporating a Plain Woodruff Key into truck engine and transmission systems offers several advantages. It contributes to improved reliability by ensuring that components remain securely in place under various operational conditions. Additionally, the design of the Woodruff Key allows for ease of installation and removal, facilitating maintenance and repair processes ².

Installation Process

Installing the 4900565 Plain Woodruff Key involves several steps to ensure proper fitting and function. First, the shaft must be prepared with a groove that matches the dimensions of the key. The key is then inserted into this groove, aligning it with the component to be secured. Tools such as a mallet may be required to gently tap the key into place, ensuring it is fully seated without damage. It is important to verify the fit and alignment before final assembly.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Typical problems associated with Woodruff Keys include wear over time and improper fit, which can lead to component slippage or damage. To address these issues, regular inspection of the key and its mating surfaces is recommended. If wear is detected, replacement of the key may be necessary. Ensuring the correct dimensions and proper installation can prevent many common issues ³.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the 4900565 Plain Woodruff Key, regular maintenance is advised. This includes periodic inspection for signs of wear or damage, cleaning the key and its groove to remove any debris or buildup, and verifying the secure fit of components. Adhering to manufacturer-recommended inspection intervals can help maintain the integrity of the key and the overall system.

Cummins: Manufacturer Overview

Cummins Inc. is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes a wide range of power solutions, including engines, filtration, and related technologies. With a strong reputation in the automotive industry, Cummins is particularly renowned for its heavy-duty truck components, which are known for their reliability, performance, and durability. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality has established it as a trusted name in the field of automotive and heavy-duty truck parts.

Plain Woodruff Key 4900565 Compatibility with Cummins Engines

The Plain Woodruff Key 4900565, manufactured by Cummins, is a critical component in ensuring the proper functioning of various engine parts. This key is designed to fit snugly into the corresponding slots of the engine’s components, providing a secure connection that is essential for the smooth operation of the engine.

A1400 and A1700 Engines

The A1400 and A1700 engines, both known for their reliability and efficiency, utilize the Plain Woodruff Key 4900565 in several key areas. This part is integral to the operation of the engine’s internal mechanisms, ensuring that components such as pulleys and shafts remain securely attached during operation. The precision fit of the key in these engines is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the engine’s performance and longevity.

A2000 and A2300 Engines

Similarly, the A2000 and A2300 engines also incorporate the Plain Woodruff Key 4900565 in their design. These engines, which are part of Cummins’ higher-performance lineup, require a robust and reliable connection between various components. The key’s role in these engines is to provide a stable and secure fit, which is essential for the high-stress environments these engines operate in. The precision engineering of the key ensures that it can withstand the demands of these powerful engines, contributing to their overall efficiency and durability.

Grouping of Engines

When considering the compatibility of the Plain Woodruff Key 4900565 with the Cummins engines, it is important to note that the A1400 and A1700 engines share many common components and design principles. This commonality extends to the use of the key, which fits seamlessly into the slots of these engines’ components. On the other hand, the A2000 and A2300 engines, while more advanced, also rely on the same key for critical connections, ensuring that the key’s design is versatile enough to meet the needs of both lower and higher-performance engines.

Role of Part 4900565 Plain Woodruff Key in Engine Systems

The Part 4900565 Plain Woodruff Key is an essential component in the assembly and operation of various engine systems, particularly in ensuring the precise alignment and secure fitting of rotating parts.

In the Fuel Injection Pump, the Plain Woodruff Key is utilized to maintain the alignment between the camshaft and the fuel injection pump gear. This alignment is vital for the accurate timing of fuel injection, which directly influences the engine’s performance and efficiency. The key ensures that the rotational movement of the camshaft is accurately transferred to the fuel injection pump, allowing for synchronized fuel delivery.

Similarly, in the broader context of the Pump system within the engine, the Plain Woodruff Key plays a role in securing the connection between the pump shaft and the driven component. This secure fitting is necessary for the efficient transfer of power and the consistent operation of the pump, whether it is a water pump, oil pump, or any other type of pump used in the engine system.

For the Fuel Injection system as a whole, the Plain Woodruff Key is instrumental in maintaining the integrity of the fuel delivery process. By ensuring that all rotating components are properly aligned and securely fitted, the key contributes to the reliable and efficient operation of the fuel injection system. This, in turn, enhances the overall performance and longevity of the engine.

Conclusion

The 4900565 Plain Woodruff Key is a vital component in the operation of Cummins heavy-duty truck engines, ensuring the secure fitting and alignment of components on shafts. Its role in maintaining the integrity of engine systems, particularly in fuel injection and pump systems, underscores its importance in the reliable performance of these engines. Regular maintenance and proper installation are key to maximizing the longevity and efficiency of this Cummins part.