Greasing streeing knuckle felts ?

[mdtrail-toy]

ok so like so many of have probably done in preparation of my first s.a.s. , I have read just about every thread I can find or watch on the internet about the swap and axel prep. But one thing I came across in just a few threads was people actually saturating their knuckle felts in grease before installing. although most people don't seem to do this the premise seems to make a lot of sense ...to me at least.  so I guess the idea is that with it dry it would just wick and absorb any water or fluids off the vehicle. I know its not very exsposed but seems to be a logical thing to do.   Any body ever done this or any thoughts to draw backs it may have.   my M.c. eco seals should be here today and then I can get my knuckles on  so im debating weather to give it a try .  any thoughts either way  would be great   Thanks guys 

[Dingman.]

I have never done it myself.  However i was told about it recently by a buddy.  It makes since that the felts coated in grease would help water from getting inside the knuckle. 

[toyodaaddict]

I wouldnt do it. If your worried about it get the polyurethane seals that replace the felts. As far as I know there is only one company that sells them, you can probably guess which one. Factory felts, installed as intended have always done the job for me.

[mudmaster]

I got rid of them and I'm using Bobby Long's poly ones.

[mdtrail-toy]

thanks guys    believe me I knew there would be a lot of different opinions on this. I really didn't have any specific concerns as far as needing to do this and iv never seen it mentioned in any Fsm.   more than likely I will just go the normal route , but thought  it was worth getting some thoughts on it.  eco seals just arrived a while ago  .  so hopefully I can get my knuckles set up tonight ....

[jssgbsn]

It shouldn't hurt but I dont think its necessary.  FSM doesn't say to 'pack/saturate' the felts.  Although it does say to 'coat them' for ease of installation.  I've never had a problem but have heard of some people ripping/tearing the felts on install.

If you are going through water frequently (or mudding) you should be repacking your hub and potentially birf anyway.  At least I would. And it'll just give you more practice servicing the axle so when you need to rebuild or whatever you'll be more comfortable doing it.

I installed the rubber seals (with rock gaurd half-moon things) sold by the company that shall not be named    Which I believe is a solid upgrade and worth it. Probably $50-$60.

I have never done the swap but if I was I would also heavily consider doing the RUF spring swap and then the 63" Chevy spring to the rear once you put them upfront.  If only I had the cash for a welding rig