Final drive flexible dust seal.

[The Hairy One]

First thing is to say hi to all on the forum,i was here some time ago and have just registered today.

I was out on a ride on sunday and noticed some mild oil sprayed over my final drive dust gaiter area.I removed the wheel and brake caliper to check it out,the oil has come from the gaiter,it had enough play in the ' snap tie' to pull off by hand.I cleaned the area and refitted the gaiter,has anyone got a bit of advice eg: is it just a new tie reqd. or is it a sign of more drastic things to come? Would appreciate the advice.

 

[The Hairy One]

The bike is a GS Adventure 02 1150, thought that would help!

 

[MattW]

When you pulled back the gaiter, how much oil was in there?

When you removed the wheel, was the back of the FD dry and oil free (the pic below is my 1100, but same principle):

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/E3I0rebn6xuymMOyszPFSA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_SSn2CtCOKnU/ScdU0KxElBI/AAAAAAAABdQ/4KLlwseJ7EE/s400/IMG_4321.JPG" /></a>

Some oil in the gaiter is normal (the final drive and gearbox output seals 'breathe' a little oil), a drive shaft full of it isn't

For peace of mind, I'd check the levels in the gearbox and FD.

 

[Steptoe]

Could be something or nothing - depends on how much oil is leaking.

The final drive input seal has a tendancy to breathe a little oil if the bike has been ridden hard for a long distance. And this is generally nothing to be too concerned about.

It's usual for a teaspoon full to run out when the gaiter is pulled back. Anymore and you may have a final drive input seal or gearbox output seal leaking.
Check the oil levels of both.

 

[Grim Rider]

Hi Sean - my 1150 often has a smear of oil around the rear of the seal and sometimes even drips a little after a long journey - has always done that and nevr worried about it. Just keep an eye on your oil levels (best to change final drive oil regularly anyway as takes very little oil)

 

[The Hairy One]

Thanks to all,thanks Rob, i didn't want to advertise any weaknesses on the IBA site,gives the non GS riders a false sense of security

The amount is small judging by the spray on the arm,it was there after a 450 mile day,just never been there before. Does the gaiter need to be as loose or would you recommend a replacement item,i am going to check the levels today p.m.Thanks for the speedy replies.