SKF 17231 Steering Gear Pitman Shaft Seal

SKF 17231 Steering Gear Pitman Shaft Seal

SKF 17231 is a steering gear pitman shaft seal built for steering systems that need reliable fluid retention and contamination control. With a nitrile sealing surface and precise dimensions, it is suited for service work where the shaft seal must match the housing and shaft closely.

For technicians servicing steering gear assemblies on applications such as Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado, this seal supports a proper repair when the original seal has hardened, worn, or begun leaking. The SKF 17231 part number is also referenced in cross applications where the same seal dimensions are required.

Key Features

• Steering gear pitman shaft seal for sealing the steering box shaft area
• Nitrile sealing surface for fluid resistance in steering applications
• 1.750 in. shaft diameter specification for dimensional match-up
• 2.254 in. outside diameter for housing fitment
• 0.313 in. width for compact seal placement
• SKF 17231 engineered to specific seal designs and material requirements

Detailed Description

SKF 17231 is designed for steering gear sealing where the pitman shaft passes through the steering gear housing. The nitrile sealing surface is selected for use in environments exposed to steering fluid and road contamination, while the listed dimensions help ensure the seal seats correctly during repair. SKF has a long history in shaft seal development, and this part reflects that focus on precise sealing geometry and material selection. If you are replacing a leaking steering gear seal on a Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado, verifying shaft diameter and housing dimensions against SKF 17231 is an important step before installation.

This part cross-references 54B313 and 104923R91 for the same application.

Common Issues This Seal Can Address

• Steering gear fluid seepage at the pitman shaft
• Contamination entering the steering gear housing
• Seal hardening or wear from age and heat
• Loss of steering fluid caused by a damaged shaft seal
• Repair needs during steering gear rebuilds on Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado applications

Installation Notes and Tips

Confirm the shaft diameter, outside diameter, and seal width before installation. Inspect the pitman shaft surface for scoring or corrosion, since surface damage can shorten seal life. Clean the steering gear bore thoroughly and install the seal squarely to avoid distortion. Always verify the application against the vehicle service information for the exact steering gear configuration.

Quality Assurance

SKF manufactures seals to defined design and material standards, using premium materials selected for the application and operating environment. The brand’s seal engineering background and long-term use in steering and driveline sealing support consistent fit and function when the correct part number is selected.