For the B230F engine (1988 N/A 240DL with about 300k miles), when changing the front oil seals, do I lubricate the inner AND outer edges of the seals? One YouTube video says only the inner, another both edges.

Also, what's the best lubricant? If lithium grease, is the spray okay, or should I use the gel/solid?

Finally, I seem to recall someone recommending using Vaseline over the entire surfaces of the oil seals to prevent them from drying out, but that doesn't seem right.

Thanks

I grease both sides. I used GPL-205 on some about 4 years ago and have not had any issues.

Thanks.

I took an engine class about 10 years ago and I distinctly recall the instructor advising NOT to lubricate the outside of the seal, but I did not ask him why.

I don't understand why lubricating the outside of the seal would create problems.

Here's how I do it.

Clean then lightly lubricate the crankshaft seal surface with engine oil.

Pack the back of the seal with grease where the spring resides. This will help keep the spring in place while you are installing the seal. I normally use "SuperLube" which is a thick clear silicone grease and comes in a tube that I buy from my local Ace Hardware store.

Lubricate the lip(s) of the seal with engine oil. I prefer not to use the SuperLube as it has a tendency to cause the seal to make noise.

I can not understand why anyone would lubricate the outer diameter of a seal that needs to be a press fit. Lubing the outside might cause the seal to slip afterwards. I've had to replace the aluminum front covers on OHC Volvos engines due to a slipping auxiliary shaft and front crankshaft seals.

I know of and use a special lubricant for pressing various bushings and bearings that doesn't cause slippage afterwards, but that is for metal to metal surfaces.

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Eric
Hi Performance Automotive Service (formerly OVO or Old Volvos Only)
Torrance, CA 90502