Lock key selection help
What is a blocking tool?
A locking tool is a specific tool used to secure the rotating parts of an engine so that engine components can be assembled or disassembled. The purpose is to prevent the rotating parts from exerting force on, for example, a nut, causing it to rotate along with them and making it difficult to unscrew. By immobilizing the rotating part, force can be applied, and the nut can be loosened.
Locking tools exist for different parts of the engine, and sometimes in different ways. Zandri, for example, sells locking tools for disassembling the variator, clutch, or flywheel.
The variator of a scooter needs to be disassembled regularly. The variator rollers and the V-belt wear out, and to replace them, the variator must be disassembled. To remove the variator, the crankshaft nut needs to be removed. It is tightly fixed, and since the crankshaft also rotates, no force can be applied to it. A professional garage uses an air wrench in such cases, but most people who work on their scooter or moped as a hobby do not have this tool. That's where the locking tool comes in handy. By applying it, the crankshaft and all other rotating parts are immobilized, and the nut can be loosened.
Variator Locking Key
The best and safest way to assemble or disassemble the variator is by using a locking tool. Each engine type requires a different model of locking key, which is determined by the engine's construction. However, all locking tools essentially serve the same purpose. They help hold the variator in place, preventing it from rotating while you assemble or disassemble the crankshaft nut. For this reason, it is a recommended and safe method, endorsed by Zandri. Zandri offers a locking key for almost every type of engine.
Piston Stopper
With a 2-stroke engine, another method of locking can be achieved with a piston stopper. The piston stopper is screwed into the spark plug hole and prevents the piston from moving upward, thereby immobilizing the variator, among other components. However, this method is not entirely risk-free. A significant force can be applied to a small area of the piston, potentially causing damage. This method is not recommended at all for 4-stroke engines. Improper use of the piston stopper can result in it colliding with a valve in the combustion chamber. Additionally, due to the angled position of the spark plug hole, the stopper is placed diagonally on the piston, further concentrating the force on a smaller surface area. The piston cannot withstand this and may be severely damaged.
For the different types of variator locking keys and piston stoppers, we have provided specific information on which scooters and mopeds they are suitable for. If you have any doubts, feel free to contact our customer service via chat, email, or the contact form on our website.
Clutch Locking Tool
A different key is required for disassembling the clutch, known as a clutch locking tool. The clutch needs to be disassembled when replacing clutch segments, installing different tension springs, performing inspections, or replacing the V-belt. A clutch locking tool ensures that you can apply force to the nut without everything rotating. This allows for safe and risk-free handling without damaging the parts.
Zandri offers a wide range of clutch locking tools, which vary based on the engine type and scooter brand. We have made our best efforts to provide clear information on our website, but if you have any doubts or questions, please contact our customer service via email, contact form, or chat.
Flywheel Removal, Flywheel Locking Tools
There are also special tools available for locking the flywheel, known as flywheel locking tools. However, the range of such tools is quite limited. Typically, a universal key is used for this purpose. It is adjustable and can be used on various types of flywheels. However, it is impossible for Zandri to determine exactly which scooters and mopeds this tool can or cannot be used on.