Bearing Seal Removal Tool?

[RCbuzz]

Been getting into some new bearings to add grease and cleaning/servicing old bearings.

I actually don't mind doing it and my bearings usually last much longer (currently using Superlube Synthetic grease), but, what is really frustrating is damaging the seals.

I am not new at this but damage almost every seal.... have used a variety of hobby knives (new and dull), tiny screwdrivers, even a tiny screwdriver that was ground flat...

Any ideas? Anyone here that can craft something to help?

I am thinking something very strong (but also has a little flex), small tools, rounded edges, L shape (at the end to "pluck" the seal), couple sizes? Or, suction device to pull the seal off?

 

[hobo]

I just use a stanley knife blade I wouldn't say there's anything else really

 

[joshludden]

Really sharp, pointed X-acto & a steady hand

 

[Diem Turner]

I try to avoid blades on the rubber seals if I can. I like to use either a really small jeweler's screwdriver (1mm flatheads are nice) or, get yourself a cheap pair of pointy tweezers and spend a few minutes with a Dremel and stone wheel really honing the tips so they fit perfectly and they'll make a great addition to your toolbox. These are sufficiently pointy to remove the c-clip on the ZZ metal shielded bearings and it really wasn't much work.

 

[RCbuzz]

Nice! Is that the tool you use for rubber seals as well?

 

[SrC]

Rubber Sealed BB's are the only removeable type that I know of.
I use a #11 Exacto blade, I break off the sharp point a MM or so, and can get under the rubber seal.
The best and only way for removal with Least Damage to the seal is by prying/lifting the seal at the inner race. (I.D. of the seal) Not at the Outer race. Less chance of damage and Bending the seal. I also flatten them well before reinstalling them, to make sure. Always clean the Rubber seals well also.
I see many YT'ers of guys doing it wrong. Cleaning all, except the rubber seals that still have crud and old grease on them when they reinstall them.. Many of them are popular YT'ers too.
I use a grease on them. 1/4-1/3 filled. No more! Or the seals will pop, and the cages will blow out, balls and all. The BB's almost lock up and get hot, if overfilled. This causes Galling. Don't need much. Less is better than more here.
I use Oil only on the Motor BB's.
Also if one seal goes bad too, bent etc, don't use it, use a bit extra grease and place the unsealed side of the BB facing inside. Let the rubber sealed side face out exposed to dirt. Like at the Hubs.
Some guys specifically do this, to make the BB spin free'er, leaving one seal off. Rubber seals do cause some minute amount of friction with the BB Cage. Bent seals even more so.