thanks guys - the shaft does not have a single key but several round rods that fit into the sides of the shafts where gears connect to the shaft. Once the gear is on the shaft, the rods are locked into place.
As far as chain piling up - there is about 4-5' drop from the bottom of the windlass to the chain in the locker. The motor spins but nothing moves forward or reverse.
hjd
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