MTFCA Forum

I put in this modern inside dust seal but it does not seem adequate. It seems like there should be something additional here as most seals I've seen have a flat outside surface. Like to get input from others on this please. These seals are sold by Lang's so I thought that was all that was needed. See Photos. Thanks for any help here![/size][/b]

That looks correct to me. The "open" side of the seal goes toward the inside of the hub. Some seals, usually older ones, have a single seal lip of rubber or leather and a flat outer steel face. Many newer seals have a double lip and an outer face similar to the one in the pic. Most all newer style seals have a wire spring to help seat the seal element on the shaft.

That looks like mine. Put them on the hub and tap them in with a hammer and 2x4.

Just did mine a few weeks ago, looks the same to me.

That would explain a lot. I thought they looked different than the original type. Correct me if I am wrong, but the original type (pictured here) just used the felt for a seal. I was mistakenly thinking that the modern neopreme seal would be hidden by the metal original cover. Anyone use the original felt without issues or is the neopreme recommended? [/size][/b]

What year are you working on? The style shown in the last photo would have been early cars, the later cars would not have any markings on the seal. The later ones that I have seen, the felt was not loose in the can, it was retained by a L shaped piece on the inside. By at least 1921, the seal was an assembly, the felt was not listed as a separate item (at least not with the front axle parts). So, except for the little bit of rubber that can be seen, the replacements really would not look that much different from what was later used by Ford.

Smear a LIGHT coating of grease on the seal lip before installing it. They won't last if run dry. The modern style seal will give superior service to the older felt type. Either one is adequate, but the modern type will do a better job of keeping water out and preventing grease from creeping out. I believe it's necessary to work grease into the felt type seal before installing it. Otherwise, it will allow dust and water into the hub.