General TR Pinion Seal Goof Up

[KVH]

It appears I smacked the face of the differential pinion seal too hard when I drove it home into the differential. I used a decent pipe fitting that fit almost perfectly, so I tried to be careful. But on one side I can now feel a concave area, and I can feel the seal is a bit different from the other side. If I slide the flange into the housing I think I can see a very slight issue with the seal there. Forget it, or get another from Moss?

 

[TomMull]

I've found the seals quite forgiving, and I wouldn't worry much about the slight concavity but I don't have an opinion on what you can feel on the other side or the "very slight issue" when the flange goes in. I suppose if you are really unsure you could put in another seal, not too much trouble from where you are at. If it were me, though, I think I'd button it up and give it a try.
Tom

 

[CJD]

If the surface of the seal is tilted, I'd replace it. I am sure it will seal as it is...for a while. The seal is cheap and likely available locally if you match the number on it at a bearing supply or even O Reilly's. Like I said, I think it will seal as is, but just not as long as a correctly installed seal. I dislike dirty bottom-end jobs so much that I want it to last when I have gone to the trouble of getting greasy under the car!

 

[TR3driver]

I'm with John. If you can feel or see that the lip of the seal is distorted (the part that rides against the flange rather than the housing where you drove it in), then I'd replace it while it's easy.

According to their website, my local O'Reillys doesn't have it in stock, but can get it next day.
https://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/...36211_-1&pt=01454&ppt=C0362#compatibilityTab_

You might have better luck, though.