News & Updates

Oil Seal Installation Guide

May. 12, 2025

Proper installation is critical for oil seal performance and longevity. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure correct fitting and avoid common failures.

1. Pre-Installation Checks

✔ Inspect the Seal

· Verify size (ID, OD, width) matches shaft/housing specifications.

· Check sealing lip for damage, cracks, or contamination.

· Ensure garter spring is properly seated (if applicable).

✔ Prepare Shaft & Housing

· Shaft: Polish to Ra ≤ 0.8μm (remove burrs/rust with 400+ grit sandpaper).

· Housing Bore: Clean thoroughly (no chips or debris).

· Lubricate: Apply compatible grease (lithium-based) to lip and shaft.

✔ Tools Required

· Mandrel/press tool (matches seal OD)

· Shaft protector (for threaded/keyed shafts)

· Soft-faced hammer (if pressing manually)


2. Installation Methods

A. Press-Fit Installation (Housing Mount)

1. Align seal squarely with housing bore.

2. Press evenly using a sleeve tool (contact outer metal case ONLY).

3. Stop when flush with housing face (avoid over-pressing).

B. Shaft Mount Installation

1. Cover shaft threads/keyways with protective tape/sleeve.

2. Slide seal onto shaft (lip facing fluid side).

3. Use a conical guide to prevent lip flipping.

Critical Notes:

· Lip orientation: Spring side must face the fluid being sealed.

· Avoid: Hammer strikes directly on seal, misalignment, or twisting.


3. Post-Installation Verification

✔ Visual Check: No tilt, lip distortion, or metal case damage.
✔ Rotation Test: Shaft should turn smoothly (excessive drag indicates misalignment).
✔ Lubrication: Prime seal with oil/grease before startup.


4. Common Mistakes & Consequences


ErrorResult
Backwards installationImmediate leakage
Rough shaft surfaceRapid lip wear
Hammering seal directlyCracked case or lip
Dry runningLip burns/seal failure


5. Special Cases

· High Speed (>10m/s): Use PTFE-coated or dual-lipped seals.

· High Pressure: Reinforced metal-case seals (e.g., FKMPP).

· Chemical Exposure: FKM or PTFE material seals.


Pro Tips

● For tight fits: Heat housing to 80-100°C (expands bore slightly).
● Critical apps: Use installation fixtures for perfect alignment.

Proper installation ensures maximum seal life—take the time to do it right! Need troubleshooting help? Ask for details.

 

Oil Seal Installation Guide

Latest News

Get a Customized Quote for Your Oil Seal Needs Today

Our main product lines include: Automobile oil seal, Agricultural & Construction machinery oil seal, Wheel hub oil seals for tractors, Valve Stem Seals, Precision Rubber Parts, O-rings

Get in Touch
+86 319 439 8143
+86 319 439 8143