Oil seals are very common parts all throughout engine designs and one of the most commonly failing types of seals. Oil seals are used where two parts come together, such as oil distribution lines, sensor attachments, pumps, filters and other components. When parts are changed, it is critical to take advantage of the access opportunity and replace seals. This aspect is confusing enough with the
. shear number of parts and sizes in use and is further complicated by different aftermarket manufacturers and updated versions. The correct size and type of a seal is essential in order for engines to operate properly and even a small mismatch can have catastrophic results. Oil seals must be air-tight and able to withstand high-pressure oil at elevated temperatures. The slightest flaw or gap results in lost oil and pressure, which causes parts to grind together, depositing shavings in the engine and eventually seizing motors completely. The most effective solution is the employment of oil seal interchange guides, either in the form of a numerical cross-reference or a visual chart. In reality, both methods should be employed, as oil-seals are similar in size and shape, with differences often measured in fractions of the width of a human fingernail. Some common outlets for oil-seal interchange guides include the major manufacturers of the seals, such as Timken and Merkel, or employ third-party providers. The Timken website, at www.Timken.com offers a convenient PDF file containing search capabilities for continual use. Most of the major auto parts chains are excellent interchange resources as well, with outlets such as www.NapaOnline.com, offering online charts and references that users can search on their own. Oil seal interchange guides are excellent tools for professional mechanics and students of the mechanical trades, offering a familiarization and understanding of what seals are the most common. Oil seal interchanges are also essential for maintaining quality and safety, matching the seals with their specific applications through documented references. More Reference Links: http://www.timken.com/en-us/products/pages/catalogs.aspx http://napapartsfromfederalmogul.com/national/interchange.php
