How to find the right Tapered Locking Bushings AI guide
Written by an AI model from its trained knowledge.
What the AI looks for in Tapered Locking Bushings
- Size number match
- Match the four-digit Taper-Lock size on the hub (for example 1008, 1108, 1210, 1610, 2012, 2517, 3020, 3535). The first two digits approximate the diameter and the last two the length. The hub's tapered bore is machined for one size number only. A different size will not seat.
- Bore and keyway
- Order the exact shaft bore, inch or metric, with the matching keyway. Confirm whether the largest bores in a size use a shallow keyway. The bore cannot be enlarged afterward. A wrong keyway means slip or a split bushing.
- Cross-brand interchange
- Any maker's Taper-Lock-standard bushing (often marked TL or TB) fits a hub of the same size number. It does not fit QD or Split Taper hubs. The size numbers are shared across makers, so you can substitute brands freely within the same size.
- Material
- Use cast iron for standard duty, steel for high-torque or shock loads, and stainless for washdown. Material sets the torque capacity and corrosion life.
- Installation
- Tighten the setscrews alternately to the manufacturer's torque, and follow its lubrication instructions for screws and taper. Uneven or excessive clamping can crack the hub. Too little lets the bushing walk on the shaft.
Brands that matter
- Dodge: The best-known Taper-Lock name in North America, with a broad size and bore range.
- Fenner Drives: Developed the taper-lock bushing concept and still makes them.
- Martin Sprocket & Gear: Makes Taper-Lock-standard bushings to fit its TB sprockets and sheaves.
- Gates: Supplies taper-lock bushings for its belt sprockets.
- TB Wood's: Offers taper-lock-standard bushings alongside its Sure-Grip line.
- Browning: Carries taper-lock-standard bushings in addition to QD.
What to avoid
- Ordering a QD bushing for a flangeless taper-lock hub.
- Mixing inch and metric bores without checking the shaft.
- Driving the bushing out with a hammer instead of using the removal hole.
- Leaving setscrews loose or tightening them unevenly.
Questions
How do I remove a Taper-Lock bushing?
Back out all the setscrews. Thread one or more into the removal hole(s) that are tapped only on the bushing side, then tighten to push the bushing out of the hub.
Are Taper-Lock bushings from different brands interchangeable?
Yes, when the four-digit size number matches. The bore and keyway also have to match your shaft.