Bicycle Mechanics - Should I re-use Shimano front hub dust seals?

I'm overhauling the front hub (Shimano Deore LX HB-M550) of my circa '92 Trek 950.

While prying out the dust seals they deformed slightly (see photos). Is there any reason I shouldn't re-use the dust seals? If you believe that I need to replace them, are you aware of any sources for these old parts?

Do you have any tips for how I can remove the dust seals the next time without damaging them?

As long as they don't catch on the bearings or the cones when you re-install them then re-use them. You can also bend them back into shape a little if they do. If there is any reason not to use them, besides cosmetically, you will know after putting them back on, properly adjusting the bearings, and checking for smoothness.

I would get new seals. Your LBS should be able to get these from one of there suppliers.

I don't think you will be able to get replacements unless Shimano America still has some lying around. I'd just reshape them using a wood dowel as a "punch" and a light hammer on a flat surface. I've cleaned up similar distorted hub seals that way and they work fine afterwards.

Check with your LBS, Not for new parts, but, they may have a pile of old wheels, with rim damage,
to get a spare hub out of ... that is from that same product/year run..

I'd go with HillRider's suggestion. When I learned to overhaul hubs, I was told to be really careful and gentle in removing those Shimano seals, but it's tricky not to bend them at all.

I can't tell from the photos but if the seal dimensions are marked try getting replacement based on size from a local bearing/seal supply store. If they are not marked get out the calipers and measure them. I'd almost bet if you walked in to such a supply store they could find replacements.

As far as removing seals without damage it can be done with proper tools. Prying seals out with a screwdriver always damages seals beyond re-use. You may be able to get these fairly straight to use them again but they will not do their job very well.

Good luck,
fasthair

Hi Hillrider,

I want you to know I followed your advice and was able to reshape the dust seals. I did end up using a combination of wood dowels, 1/4-inch and 1/18 dia; as well as a couple of small metal punches. I took my time and lightly tapped them into shape. Re-installation was easy. I've now learned that there was really no need to remove these, as I could have used tweezers to remove and replace the ball bearings.

Thanks again!

Hi Hillrider,

I want you to know I followed your advice and was able to reshape the dust seals. I did end up using a combination of wood dowels, 1/4-inch and 1/18 dia; as well as a couple of small metal punches. I took my time and lightly tapped them into shape. Re-installation was easy. I've now learned that there was really no need to remove these, as I could have used tweezers to remove and replace the ball bearings.

Thanks again!
Great. I'm glad you were able to salvage them. fasthair's recommendation of replacements from a bearing supply house is probably not going to work as these things are strictly proprietary AFAIK.

I've found that using a wide blade screwdriver and working slowly around the circumference, I can remove these seals with no damage. Rmoving them, while not strictly necessary, makes cleaning and replacing the bearings and races more convenient.