Posted by Alan Bowes on November 05, 1998 at 14:20:12:
In Reply to: Re: A WORD OF ADVICE ON N.O.S. seals posted by Bill Wincapaw on November 05, 1998 at 12:52:23:
Excellent advice from Bill, Rick, and Jack, and I'd like to add that on the front axle it's important to replace the bronze bushings when you overhaul the knuckle assemblies. A worn bushing can destroy the inner seal VERY quickly.
If the old leather seals were stored in a moist location for many years, there's always the chance that some mold may have attacked the leather, so one should always have a close look at NOS leather stuff to make sure it's still intact. The neatsfoot oil approach is a good idea. I like to soak leather seals in synthetic motor oil just before installing them.
Have fun,
Alan