I am hoping someone has some advice to offer on a small problem that I have. The brake hub seal on my Foreman leaks slightly. I like to play around in the streams and I usually end up with about a tablespoon of water coming out when I remove the brake plug. I have removed the drum, cleaned the components and reassembled using water resistant grease around the gasket and yet it still leaks. I don't have the same problem with the Rancher.

Suggestions?

Temp

 

Tempest,

I know what you're talking about, it's hard to keep the water out of those front drums if you play in water all the time. I have a few suggestions, first check your front wheel bearings by jacking up the front end. Grab the top and bottom of the tire and wiggle it back and forth. If you have excessive play this will let the drum and drum seal wobble against the backing plate. Not only can let this water in, but it wears the seal out quickly too. The three lips of the seal get pretty thin. We ride in a lot of sand, mud and water with our Foremans and I've yet to see the front bearings and seals last more than 500 miles. We probably clean and re-grease the drums after every 4-6 GOOD rides.

Another trick that all of the Honda guys do is to silicone the pins and rubber grommets that hold the brake shoes in place. Right where the pin goes through the rubber grommet tends to get a little stretched and lets small amounts of water in. If you silicone this up, ensure your bearings and seals are in good condition and use lots of waterproof grease, you should be able to keep that water out.

Good Luck!

 

If it is the rear brakes you are talking about be sure to check the seal on the actuator shaft that goes thru the backing plate to apply the brakes. Also no matter which brake it is make sure that the vent hose is not disconnected or cut. Be sure to follow them all the way up. I had one cut about 8-10 inches away from the wheel and drove me nuts trying to find the leak.