Abstract: A taper key removal apparatus includes a body including a shank section. The shank section includes a beveled striking surface monolithically formed therewith. The body further includes a tip section monolithically formed with the shank section. Such a tip section extends forwardly of the shank section and includes an end portion. The tip section has a substantially planar front face extending partially along the length of the body and terminating at the end portion. A shim is positioned between the body and a gear and for maintaining the gear at a substantially stable position during operating conditions. Such a shim has opposed end portions and substantially planar front and rear portions. An aperture is formed proximate to one end portion and generally medially of the sidewalls.