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I ordered a set of axle seals for a small bearing 9 inch rearend and they just came in today. They are Timken 51098. I was surprised when I opened the box and found that the seal material is leather and not a synthetic rubber with a spring. Is this normal?
Suspicious... is the seal Chinese? I wonder if it's a counterfeit? Did you buy from Amazon? I replaced a 9" small bearing axle seal about 3 months ago and it was the usual rubber with gaiter spring, but it may have been a National Seal.
Not sure they are as good or better than some of the new products, but there have been many leather seals used in the past. I would not hesitate to use it if it fit correctly.
Not sure they are as good or better than some of the new products, but there have been many leather seals used in the past. I would not hesitate to use it if it fit correctly.
Also as long as it is fresh-made. I imagine soaking it in oil before installation is proper?
The leather is supple but also very thick, they will get a soaking in rear end lube prior to install.
This is the rearend that they are going into, I am replacing it with an 8.8 and 4-link...
Don't use leather seals. Not only will they always seep a little, they are very abrasive. They will wear right into the surface, so next time around you will be guaranteed to need speedi-sleeves. I have rebuilt tons of vintage trucks, equipment, machines, etc., and anything with a leather seal always has a damaged seal surface.
Chuck
I would have to disagree. It has been my experience that rubber seals are more abrasive than leather. One of the main ingredients of rubber is clay. They will both wear a groove in the sealing surface.
Mark
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