SealsIn places where a shaft must pass through a housing, flexible lip seals are used to keep the lubricating oil or grease from leaking out past the rotating shaft. With a little consideration for the seals and the job they have to do, future leaks can be avoided. Seals are designed to be installed in the housing only once, and should never be reused once they have been removed. As long as they are not removed from the housing and not leaking, they need not be replaced. There is, however, no easier time to replace seals than when the car is already apart for some other repair. When doing repairs that require removing a seal, be very careful not to scratch or otherwise damage the metal sealing surfaces. Even minor damage can cause seal damage and leakage. The whole key to seal installation is to get the seal in straight and without damage. Use an object that is the same diameter as the seal to gently and evenly drive it into place. A socket of the right size works well. Coat the entire seal with a little grease or oil to help it go in more easily. Seals are directional. Make sure that it is being installed with the lip facing the correct way. Normally the lip faces the inside. Notice the installation direction of the old seal before removing it. |
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