Timken 1208S Wheel Seal - Rear

Timken 1208S Rear Wheel Seal for Vanagon

The Timken 1208S is a rear wheel seal built for 1980-1991 Volkswagen Vanagon applications. It uses S-Nitrile material and a precision sealing design to help retain lubricant while keeping road debris out of the hub area.

For Volkswagen Vanagon rear wheel service, this seal is sized for a 1.890 shaft diameter, 2.835 housing bore, 2.847 outside diameter, and 0.276 width. The reinforced outer case and ribbed rubber inner diameter support a secure seat on the spindle, including minor spindle imperfections.

Key Features

• S-Nitrile construction for sealing performance in driveline and axle service
• Reinforced outer case helps resist installation damage
• Ribbed rubber inner diameter seals minor spindle imperfections and promotes positive seating
• Internal contamination exclusion system helps block debris that can lead to leakage
• Vent holes allow lubricant flow around the seal lip to help reduce heat build-up
• Fits 1980-1991 Volkswagen Vanagon, rear

Detailed Description

Timken 1208S is a rear wheel seal for Volkswagen Vanagon models from 1980 through 1991. It is engineered for wheel-end sealing where lubricant retention and contamination control are critical. The seal’s dimensions and S-Nitrile material make it a direct-fit option for rear hub service on the Vanagon, and the design features support consistent sealing at the spindle and housing interface. This part cross-references Gates 18972 for the same application.

Common Issues This Seal Can Address

• Gear oil or grease leakage at the rear wheel end
• Contamination entering the hub area
• Seal damage during installation
• Poor sealing on minor spindle surface imperfections
• Heat-related seal wear from restricted lubricant flow

Installation Notes and Tips

Inspect the spindle, bore, and sealing surface before installation. Clean all mating surfaces thoroughly and verify the housing bore and shaft diameter match the seal dimensions before pressing the seal into place. On Volkswagen Vanagon rear wheel service, proper seating is important to maintain sealing contact and reduce the chance of repeat leakage.

Quality Assurance

Timken oil and grease seals are built with precision sealing designs and contamination control features for driveline and axle applications. The reinforced case and engineered lip design support dependable service in rear wheel seal applications such as the Volkswagen Vanagon.