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I have a 1968 W1oo.
I replace the rear pinion shaft seal on the Dana 60 rear diff. It was the first time so I had to take it out 2 times for a total of 3 inistals with that seal.
Know it would probably leak but replacing it was cheap so I did that.

Upon installing the new seal, I noticed that I had install the previous seal backwards. The spring was facing out / front. The seal had some marks from where it rubbed on the slinger that is on the yoke.

Installed now seal spring to the back and all is good.

Now for the question.

I installed the front diff seal the same way. Backwards. I can see it as there is no slinger on that yoke to block the view.

I know that I need to order a new seal and put it in correctly.

It is not leaking or rubbing on anything. What bad things could happen from it being in backwards ?

The truck is only used in town within 5 miles from my house.

Just want to find out why it matters, if it is not leaking.

1surfer wrote:...... What bad things could happen from it being in backwards?......

It could start leaking.

Yes, I realize it could leak. I have a clear view of it when its parked and don't drive it out of town. Wondering if there are any other reasons.

I do intend on changing it, however I may leave it in for a while toes what it does. Gif the OD and ID are the same either way and its not interaction with any metal, I just wonder ....

I would guess that the spring is installed to keep the seal formed in a certain way to seal correctly around the yoke. It seems like a metal spring would last much, much longer in a low moisture oil bathed environment as opposed to being exposed to all the water, salt, dirt outside of the gearbox. The spring might corrode and fail if facing the wrong direction. Therefore leaking. Just my guess. And probably so mechanics won't laugh at you.

Yes, I agree about the spring. I will surely rust. Ordering a new seal.