Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[Les Foster]

Can anyone tell me the part number for the grease seal that sits just behind the roller bearing at the forward end of the E83W torque tube/driveshaft? Or is it the same or smaller than the axle driveshaft grease seals. The parts list seems to omit mention of this seal except in the exploded view of the rear axle where it's given the same number as the axle seals (4245). The axle seal is too large to enter the tube from the front end which iI think is how the manual says to do it (after removing the bearing and sleeve). Does it actuall y go in from the rear end of the tube (the center bearing is in the way unless removed) or is there actually a smaller diameter seal for the front bearing under a different number?? I'm confused!!!

[Les Foster]

I guess I am answering my own question! I took apart my E83W torque tube and confirmed that the forward-end grease seal is indeed a smaller diameter than the axle seals and does remove from the forward end after withdrawing the bearing and sleeve. I still don't know the seal part number, though. I also removed the center bearing (by striking it with the driveshat after the front bearing, etc. was out. It came out easily and I note that it is exactly like the U.S. Fords of the 30's but smaller. I've improvised a suitable installation tool but it is a bit tricky to line it up with the bolt/greaser holes. It has a bonded rubber ring around the bearing so I worry that a new one with less slippery rubber might be harder to get in. Can I lubricate the new rubber with soap when installing in the manner of bike handgrips (soap dries and leaves them tight)??

[rustyreks]

Sounds like you have done well to remove the grease seal i havent done that job yet if you have a look on this site the part numbers should be listed quite useful sometimes in the book the tool they used to fit bearings had a line marked for the top of the tool to help line it up if that is any help still learning myself rustyreks. http://www.smallfordspares.co.uk/en/vehicle.phtml?VehicleID=12

[R.J.Law]

The driveshaft seal is part no EB 4245A according to the parts book I have. Hope this right.