Bearing grease seal installation question

[22E6441]

Hey Folks,

Just a question about how far to bang in a seal. I know you're supposed to only tap it in until it's even with the edge of the hub, but why not bang it all the way in? Like to the point where it helps keep the rear bearing in place?

I just never understood that one......

Thanks.

 

[Titanium48]

Re: Bearing grease seal installation question

A few possibilities:
It is easier to ensure it is in square when you can align it with the edge of the hub.
The seal needs to ride on spindle area machined for it. This is particularly important with "sure-lube" spindles where the grease enters through a hole between the inner bearing and the seal. The seal should not cover any part of the hole.
The inner bearing is held between the race in the hub and the step on the spindle when fully assembled. Anything touching the ends of the rollers or the roller carrier would only increase wear and friction.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Bearing grease seal installation question

Holding the bearing in place is NOT the job of the seal. In fact the seal has nothing to do with the bearing except keep the bearing grease in the hub and not sprayed all over the inside of the wheel. The bearing is positioned by the step on the spindle. The bearing freeplay is then adjusted by the position of the castle nut.