59 pan compensating sprocket "key"

[neilw]

I'm just about ready to install my eng sprocket assembly and clutch ,but looking in my parts book I see part number 40390-54 "compensating shaft key" I don't see where any key can go ,Theres one in the transmission shaft ,but theres no slot in the engine output shaft ..
The eng shaft is splined and I dont see how anything could be at risk to slip.
Any advise will be appreciated.
Neil

[Robert Luland]

59 was a splined shaft. The is no key. 55 and up now more key. Your part number ends in 54. Bob L

[neilw]

Thanks Rob ,my parts book is a reprint by Antique cycle . I appreciate the info ,thanks again
Neil

[Perry Ruiter]

When the compensating sprocket was introduced, the factory also offered a version as an accessory item for older taper shaft bikes. I suspect this key was part of that kit and someone messed up and included it in the 55 and later parts books ... Perry

[flat-happy]

i have one of the early tapered shaft compensating sprockets if anyone needs one---i'll never use it

[Chris Haynes]

Thanks Rob ,my parts book is a reprint by Antique cycle . I appreciate the info ,thanks again
Neil

It is very important to use the same year parts book as your bike. If you use a newer parts book you will see the part the the MoCo was selling in that year and not necessarily the correct part for your year bike.