Another 41 Wheel Bearing Seal Question

[Mike Wenrich #1666]

When replacing my front wheel bearing seals, I noticed the drums had the seals installed with the crimped rim showing and then the rim was staked in four locations.  I would think the seal would go in the other way, with the smooth side showing, although either might work.  I installed one with the smooth side showing and the seal is VERY tight in the hub with no need to stake.  Since my seals looked pretty bad, did I come across a worn seal that some long gone mechanic staked to be able to reuse it?

Also, I installed the rear race for the seal to check for proper clearance and had a heck of a time doing it.  I plan to install the drum with the race in place because it would be very difficult to get the drum to properly slide over the seal with the race already on the spindle.  Does this make sense or would it be just as easy to install the race in the normal fashion?  I was thinking I might have to draw it up with the nut using that method and maybe damage the seal.  I can see that after some use it would likely install easier. 

[Steve Passmore]

The inner race of the inner bearing go's on the spindle first sometimes with a little lock-tight if its loose to stop it spinning. The outer race and the bearings themselves fit into the back of the drum hub along with the seal.
Outer bearing same thing but fit the inner race of the outer bearing when drum is on the spindle.

[Jon S]

The question was which way the seal was installed.  I believe the smooth side should be facing out.  That's how the later year seals are installed.  But, as you say, either way probably works.

[Steve Passmore]

The question was which way the seal was installed.  I believe the smooth side should be facing out.  That's how the later year seals are installed.  But, as you say, either way probably works.

Your right about the seal Jon. I was only answering the second part of Mikes question.

Quote.
Also, I installed the rear race for the seal to check for proper clearance and had a heck of a time doing it.  I plan to install the drum with the race in place because it would be very difficult to get the drum to properly slide over the seal with the race already on the spindle.  Does this make sense or would it be just as easy to install the race in the normal fashion? 
Unquote

[Jon S]

Steve -

I missed the second part of the question.

[Mike Wenrich #1666]

Thanks fellas for the replies.  I will check the outer (rear) race today and see if it has made it easier to install after sitting overnight.  Maybe by stretching the felt a little.