Replacing SC axle seals

[tractorguy2]

Replacing the rear axle seals on my 48 model SC. The grease seals came from CarQuest I thought they were a little prices at $25ea the number is 475458. I ordered felt seals from Steiner for an IH tractor part number IHS4448. They are a very close match to the original seals and fit nicely. I'm stretching them out on pop cans which happen to be the same diameter as the axles on my SC.

Does anyone know if the felt seals should be soaked in oil first or installed dry? I would think they would slide over the axle better oiled up. I made a wooden key to put in the axle keyway to hopefully prevent cutting the seals.

 

[matthies]

I always massage grease into the felt seals the best I can, I wouldn't soak them, just drip some oil on and massage that in also. Once installed all the excess oil is just going to make a mess.