This video is sponsored by BCA Bearings.

In the previous video, we talked about the importance of recommending premium, OE-quality bearings over lower-cost, economy bearings. But it’s just as important to ensure the customer is using high-quality seals, whether they’re part of a bearing set or sold separately.  

Seals play a key role in determining the life of a bearing. High-quality seals keep lubricants in and keep contaminants such as dirt and debris out, reducing wear and aging on bearings. And some seals actually help maintain pressure within a system.

When a bearing is cooling off after it’s been used, the metal, air and lubricant contract, which can create a vacuum. If the seal can’t hold the vacuum, the bearing or sealed hub unit will suck in outside air, debris and water. As these contaminants circulate through the grease and between the races and bearings, they can compromise the integrity of the bearing components.

If you have a bearing that’s already worn, a bad seal will make it wear out even faster. The increased heat inside the bearing could break down and eventually expel the lubricants, leading to catastrophic failure.

Here’s the bottom line: To minimize customer comebacks, recommend seals that are designed and manufactured to OEM standards. High-quality seals on the market today use advanced polymer technologies and modern sealing design principles to ensure the seals provide maximum protection from leaks and contaminants.