1998 Sporster 1800 - Carbone Seal question

[howie099]

Guys I have a question on Carbone seal on my 1800 Sportster. One of them is wear faster than the other since I can tell by looking at it and I can see the dust. I do remember when I replaced the whole assembly like 2 seasons ago the engine took a little more muscle to get the c-clip on. Both are on the farthest place on the drive shaft since I have 3 options on mine. I can't remember off had but I am pretty sure this is the engine that fills a bit on me with oil so I have to clear it more so I am running it a little bit more on the hose.

I am just guessing since I am running that side a bit more out of the water is dusting more than the other since I am not pouring water on the assembly. The boat still takes off fine I just wondering if anyone else has seen the carbone rings do that dusting? Or what is like the cut off for new one? Like how small can it get to still be safe?

 

[Dr Honda]

If you are running them out of the water... you will destroy the seal. It's both cooled, and lubed by the lake water. SO... when it's out of the water, and dry... it just eats itself. (so the dust is normal) Regardless... they wear as the work.

If you are going to work on the boat out of the water... I always recommend a very small dab of water proof grease on the face of the seal.


If you aren't getting massive cavitation... then the seal is still OK... and just g enjoy the day.

 

[howie099]

I probably trying to start it more than actually running to clear the engine. I wouldn't say a lot of time out of the water maybe a 1-2 minutes at a time. I just know I run that one more since that engine leaks a little at the seals. I just didn't think the amount of dust would be that different. I just wondering if I got a weaker unit it. If not just go buy another one and put it on.