Overall, neoprene foam gaskets are a reliable and cost-effective solution for sealing and insulation applications in a wide range of industries. Their resilience, sealing properties, insulation capabilities, and versatility make them a preferred choice for manufacturers, engineers, and maintenance professionals who depend on high-quality gaskets to ensure the performance and longevity of their equipment.
Summary
If these specific tools aren’t available, it’s entirely possible to correctly seat an oil seal in its housing using a hammer. Ideally, this hammer will be plastic or rubber due to it’s more forgiving nature. Using this and a strike plate that covers the entire seal will lend you accuracy while driving it in. The downside to this method is the inability to drive the seal any further than the strike plate will allow.
Cover the valve gear with a clean cloth to prevent dirt getting into the working parts of the engine.
Garter springs are generally used when the lubricant is oil, as it provides the necessary downward force to maintain a tight seal. However, when grease is the lubricant, garter springs can often be eliminated. Due to its low viscosity, grease doesn’t require as much downward force to maintain an effective seal.

When installed, the oil seal’s flexible lip is placed against the rotating shaft, and the casing is pushed into the housing for support. It is crucial that the sealing lip is lubricated to avoid overheating caused by friction.