Thread: Defender hub seals

Originally Posted by justinc

try using part number RTC3511, it is the only seal I fit now, does everything except series vehicles and disco2/ P38a obviously as these have sealed hubs. It is a double lip seal and has 2 garter springs, whereas all 'fender factory ones don't. Make sure you insert seal main body 4mm at least into hub, or outer seal will rub on stub axle.

JC

I originally posted this in the Tecnical Chatter section, so have added it to the more relevant 90 110 130 Defender one.

I recently fitted new brake discs, & also converted my front swivels to oil lubrication instead of grease. I used the RTC3511 double lipped seals all round. The front RHS one has started to weep oil, leading to some research.

The RAVE manual, referring to the later FTC4785 standard grease seal, suggested the seal be fitted with the "lip side leading". When re-assembling I fitted the RTC3511 in the same way, but have discovered that there is opinion that the seal should be fitted the other way.

I am asking - which is the correct way:

1. To have the lip/gaiter spring side on the inside next to the back wheel bearing with the flat side towards the stub axle base,

OR

2. Should the flat side of the seal go in 1st to be next to the bearing, with the lip/gaiter springs towards the stub axle base, with the lip edges flush with the hub surface. (see photo - not mine, but off the 'net).

I suspect by following the RAVE instruction for FTC4785 I may have fitted RTC3511 the wrong way, & this may account for the leakage.

The stub axle surface is smooth with no grooving visible,

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,

Lionel

1. Main seal toward the bearing.