Seal Shelf Life

[BugEyeBear]

I just received a new pinion seal from one of our biggest Deuce parts vendors (name omitted on purpose).

The package has a "Cured" date of "3Q91"

& a "Shelf Life" date of "3Q96".

Is this common?

Anything to be concerned about? Has anyone ever received a seal that was hard or dry?

What is the REAL SHELF LIFE for these seals?

I'm guessing it is fine, but before I install it I figured I'd ask the SS Motor Pool!

-Bear-

 

[atankersdad]

Bet it came from the stash of parts from Memphis Auction.

 

[Tankjeepman]

I guess it depends upon on the seal, but I am rebuilding a 44 Chevy with NOS seals made in the 40's & 50's and they seem to work just fine. If it is not cracked, still flexible and seals it should be ok.

 

[Bill W]

If that deciphers out to be a 1996 manafature date and was in a sealed package then I personally would see/have no problem using it

 

[BugEyeBear]

To Clarify....

1991 Manufacturing Date is indicated on the seal's package.

1996 "Shelf Life" Date is also indicated on the package.



I also agree that the seal should be just fine.
Especially since the package shows no sign of weather exposure or other poor storage or mishandling.

I'm just curious as to whether or not other SS members might have seen similar dates on parts they have received. AND I'm hoping to address/alleviate any concerns that might pop-up in the future for other SS members who see similar dates on their packages.

AGAIN, I'm NOT worried about the quality of this seal, as this supplier IS one of the largest & most reliable supporters/suppliers for our hobby. (At least they have always supplied ME with good parts at reasonable prices, & they have always provided me with great customer service & advise as well.)


Funny thing is, IF there had been NO DATE on the package I would have just installed the seal w/o even questioning the seal's age!
OH how a little information can stir one's thoughts into a frenzy....

Besides, I'll bet that many of the existing seals on MY '71 Deuce are original equipment and they (well, MOST of them...) still work just fine!
AND I'd ALSO BET that most of the seals on my '52 GMC Deuce are also original equip and that beast is dryer underneath than my '71!!

-Bear-