Cleaning Shaft Seal

[polyharmonic]

I am in the process of installing a new shaft seal for a replacement motor. However, I read that you need to keep it clean otherwise it will fail. There are two parts, the spring part that goes into the seal plate and another part that goes into the impeller.

Which parts of the shaft seal needs to be cleaned and how do I clean it?

 

[Gecrabill]

The ceramic that seals the two together. You do not want to touch it because of the oils in your skin. I was told just to wipe it with a clean cotton cloth (like a t shirt) before marrying the two together when reassembling.

 

[Mayorb]

I have never been especially careful not to touch shaft seals. The carbon and ceramic aren't affected by skin oils, although I've heard rumors that they are. I've replaced hundreds without incident (except for defective seals Pac-Seal put out about 18 years ago). Maybe I have just been lucky? I would be interested to know how skin oil damages a seal.