We're assembling the rear axles with neoprene inner seals. Also I have some felt seals. Are they redundant? (Because they don't fit over the neoprene). We may be combining old and new systems. Your thoughts are welcome.
Ah, I think I see what is going on. The neoprene seals go on the inner side of the roller bearings (thus the need to remove the sleeve) and the felt seal goes on the outside.
Put silicone on the flange of the seals so they don't spin with the axle. If the bearing sleeve sticks out a little after the seals are installed, It's OK. Cover the axle key slot with a thin piece of paper before you slide the seal in, neoprene end first...lubercated.
BTW, The new neoprene outer seals work great also, though a little pricey.
If you're going to use the new neoprene outer seals, make sure you have the correct ones for your year of car. There was a size change, not sure of the year w/out looking it up, but I think it was around 1919. The older axle housings have a slightly smaller OD.
This shows the last part of rear axle assembly, including installation of the inner seals: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfxWPsF4KhQ.
Be sure to tape over the keyway, to avoid cutting into the seal. It will leak, if "Nicked".
Gene