I am in the process of stripping down my rear axle to replace the wheel bearings and oil seals. Having extract the hubs from the half shafts (with the help of Rob Sport) I note that the machined surface on the hubs (where they pass through the outer oil seals) aren't in the best condition (see attached photos). The majority of the rust is outboard of the contact point between oil seal and metal. However I fear there may be some minor surface pitting at or near to the contact point (I will be undertaking a closer examination later). Should I be attempting to rub down and polish to regain the smooth machined surface, or be needing someone to machine it with a lathe? However will these approaches result in leakage anyway as I will be reducing the diameter of the metal at this point, and hence reducing the tightness of the seal?
The cars been in a barn for circa 25 years so I don't know if the seals were leaking or not (as they haven't really been tested in that time with the vehicle running).
Fortunately the inner oil seal contact points on the half shafts are much better, with just a 'bright' line at the contact point. Surface here feels smooth to the touch. I presume the inner seals do most of the work anyway?
The bearings are greased during fitment and the grease is in for life, there is no grease point like the Sprint has! More cheapskating by BL, bless them! The outer seal only keeps bearing grease from getting into the brake drum and contaminating the shoes, a pretty low risk event. So the seating ring doesn't have to be perfect. As you correctly say, the inner seal does most of the work.
Steve
'73 2 door Toledo with Vauxhall Carlton 2.0 8v engine (The Carledo)
'78 Sprint Auto with Vauxhall Omega 2.2 16v engine (The Dolomega)
'72 Triumph 1500FWD in Slate Grey, Now with RWD and Carledo powertrain!
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