Do you use permatex on bearing seals?

[chaps2018]

My dexter manual calls for using permatex when installing seals. Just wondering if the community follows this recommendation.

[halfwright]

I would use it on the outside of the seal (the part that goes into the hub), but not on the sealing race (the part that seals around the axle). It seems like it would drag or bind if used there. I usually put what the seal is holding, grease or lube oil on the sealing race just for ease of installing. Most seals come with a coat of blue paint-like coating that seals in the hub.

[Ste]

Brian I have been mechanic for 22 years and I agree with jim.

On a travel trailer I cant see why anything is needed as Jim said the paint on the seal works pretty good. Maybe on a boat trailer you would get some benefit from a little RTV on the part that drives into the hub but chances are water will find a way in any way.

Particularly if the bearings are packed with grease you wont have an issue with no sealer. If you have the grease fitting dust caps(bearing buddies) be careful I have seen axle seals pushed out of the hub and the brakes covered with grease from an overzealous owner armed with a grease gun!

Steve