SKF 13985 Wheel Seal - Rear

Wheel Seal Overview

SKF wheel seal 13985 is a rear axle sealing component for classic Ford and Mercury applications. It is built to keep lubricant contained and contaminants out, helping maintain proper axle sealing in service.

Fits 1974-1981 Ford Mustang II, rear; 1976-1981 Ford Pinto, rear; and 1979-1981 Ford Fairmont, rear. It also fits 1976-1981 Mercury Bobcat, rear, plus 1979-1981 Mercury Capri and Mercury Zephyr, rear.

Key Features

• Nitrile sealing surface for dependable sealing performance.
• 0.438-inch width with a 1.960-inch outside diameter.
• 1.365-inch shaft diameter for the specified axle application.
• Rear axle fitment for selected Ford and Mercury models.
• SKF engineering backed by long-running seal design experience.

Detailed Description

SKF part number 13985 is a wheel seal engineered for rear axle service on specific Ford and Mercury vehicles. The seal uses a nitrile sealing surface and application-specific dimensions to match the axle environment and help maintain lubricant retention. This part cross-references Monroe Shocks & Struts (e.g., 219-6516, 145813985) for the same application.

Use SKF 13985 when replacing a worn or leaking rear wheel seal on a Ford Mustang II, Ford Pinto, or Mercury Bobcat application. It also serves rear fitments on Ford Fairmont, Mercury Capri, and Mercury Zephyr models listed in the fitment data. SKF 13985 is built to the stated design and material requirements for these axle assemblies.

What It Is Used For

• Stopping gear oil seepage at the wheel seal area.
• Replacing a hardened or worn axle seal.
• Reducing contamination entry into the axle assembly.
• Restoring proper sealing on rear axle service work.

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify axle ring gear configuration and shaft dimensions before installation. Confirm rear fitment against the vehicle listing and inspect the sealing surface for wear, scoring, or corrosion before installing the new seal. Clean the bore and shaft area thoroughly so the seal seats correctly.

Quality Assurance

SKF has a long history in seal design and manufacturing, including early integrated shaft seal development and continued refinement of bonding techniques. Part number 13985 is manufactured to specific design requirements using premium materials for the stated application.