SKF 13981 Automatic Transmission Output Shaft Seal - Left or Right

SKF 13981 Automatic Transmission Output Shaft Seal

SKF 13981 is an automatic transmission output shaft seal built for specific Honda and Acura applications. It is designed to retain transmission fluid at the shaft opening while helping keep dirt and other contaminants out of the transmission assembly.

Key Features

• Polyacrylate sealing surface type for the specified application
• Outside diameter: 3.002 in.
• Shaft diameter: 1.378 in.
• Width: 0.354 in.
• Engineered by SKF, a long-established seal manufacturer
• Part number: 13981

Application Details

This SKF output shaft seal is built around precise dimensional requirements for transmission service. The seal’s 3.002-inch outside diameter, 1.378-inch shaft diameter, and 0.354-inch width help ensure proper seating and sealing performance in the intended transmission location. SKF 13981 is used on select Honda Civic, Honda Prelude, Honda Accord, Honda Insight, Honda CR-Z, and Acura ILX applications, including left and right side positions where listed.

This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 172286, 182286) for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Transmission fluid seepage at the output shaft
• Contamination entering the transmission through a worn seal area
• Leak-related low fluid condition
• Seal wear from age, heat, and normal drivetrain operation
• Service replacement for a damaged or hardened shaft seal

Installation Notes and Tips

• Verify shaft diameter and seal dimensions before installation.
• Inspect the sealing surface and surrounding bore for wear, scoring, or debris.
• Clean the mating area thoroughly before pressing the seal into place.
• Confirm the correct left or right position for the vehicle listed in the fitment data.
• Use the vehicle service procedure for transmission disassembly and reassembly.

Quality Assurance

SKF has a long history in seal design and manufacturing, including early integrated shaft seal development and continued refinement of bonding and material selection. SKF 13981 is produced to defined specifications for the listed Honda and Acura applications.