Wheel-end seals are fairly complicated components made up of multiple parts with close tolerances. They also are vital to the safe operation of heavy-duty vehicles. For these reasons and others they need to be inspected on a regular basis.
Inspection intervals will vary according to vehicle vocation, the size of the vehicle and the type of wheel-end system. According to Leslie Kern, senior product manager, SKF Vehicle Service Market, the wheel-end system provider will specify inspection intervals.
Proper wheel seal care begins with proper storage and handling. According to the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC), wheel seals need to be kept away from electric motors, welding equipment and sources of ozone.
Keeping wheel-end seals clean and dry is very important so do not place them on a dirty surface and wash your hands before handling them.
A good way to ensure that the seals stay clean is to store them in their original packaging until you are ready to install them. TMC cautions you never to store wheel seals in open bins where they can be exposed to contaminants.
Be careful not to drop seals because they could become damaged even though the damage might not be apparent. Do not use a wheel-end seal that has been dropped.
Handling seals properly will ensure they are ready to be installed as replacements if you find a problem during a wheel-end inspection.
