Front axle dust seal springs

[RParker]

Does anyone have a source for the springs on the dust seal on the front axle?
Broke a rusty one, and the kit from Memphis doesn't have a new one.
Thanks.

 

[USMC 00-08]

We don't have a modern equivalent listed on our parts list. If you find one, will you post the part number so I can add it?

Here is the link to the parts list.

https://www.steelsoldiers.com/showthread.php?137722-G749-Parts-List

 

[RParker]

Haven't found anything locally (auto parts, hardware store, or arts and craft store).
But McMaster Carr has spring stock listed, and if my measuring is correct, I've found a match.

 

[USMC 00-08]

Great! Please let us know if it works. That is how we have built our parts list. All of us find modern equivalents of the old parts and we record it in the list so we can keep these trucks on the road.

 

[RParker]

The spring I ordered was too light, but the seal from Memphis was much stiffer than the original, so I didn't use one.
But I am convinced my idea will work. Buy the proper size spring stock, cut it a little long(an inch or so) and inter-lace the coils at the ends. To secure it, slip a piece of wire down the center of the joint. That should work in the groove, and since we can't find originals, it's worth a try in my opinion.