K1100 ignition sensor oil seal

I understand that BMW has used different oil seals behind the HES. I'm aware of the garden variety oil seal that has a spring to tension the sealing lip; I've also seen a different design that apparently has no spring but a number of concentric ridges and seems to be made of a plastic-type material. My question is: does it really matter which seal one uses? This seal is a common size and can be ordered in many parts stores. TIA for your thoughts.

walt3022 said:

I understand that BMW has used different oil seals behind the HES. I'm aware of the garden variety oil seal that has a spring to tension the sealing lip; I've also seen a different design that apparently has no spring but a number of concentric ridges and seems to be made of a plastic-type material. My question is: does it really matter which seal one uses? This seal is a common size and can be ordered in many parts stores. TIA for your thoughts.

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yes it does matter, but you are like everyone else. something goes wrong and you have intent. whether to do something to fix it or make it something else. The right one is usually experimental which means it may or may not work. off the shelf springs ones may or may not work, but if your careful you can remove the spring, undo the chinese fingerpull if your careful and shorten it. how much is questionable. the shorter the spring the more seal, but too much causes shaft wear.
Over time, ie engine mfg shafts are made different or can be which will effect wear.

maybe you should be writing stories like the monthly magazine.
The old harley writer finally saved enough money to buy a new one. was oh so proud he was able to drive it home and park it. something she always wanted.
the next day he came out looked at it. went immediately in and called the dealer! you sob you sold me an immitation.
It doesn't leak!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Permit me to restate my question(s). Can someone who has installed one or both designs of the crank oil seal comment on that? How did the installation go? Did you set the seals dry? With a dab of oil? Use a special tool? Can you share any other insights that you think are relevant? TIA

Hello, I've replaced that seal on at least two of my K bikes. Not because they were leaking, but because I had the cover off to replace the timing chain or what ever and since I had the cover off I may as well replace the seal. I've always used the factory part.

Regards,

Richard

Commerce Township, MI