I recently found a loose ring on the inside area of the hub on the driver side. I looked through my mechanics manual and found something that may be that part. It is called an excluder seal.

Does anyone know the function of this excluder seal? Should I be concerned about it floating around in there?

 

Dirt seal. Often they cause a high pitched squeal in cold weather. Not sure what it's loose though,

 

Evidently it's not needed because I removed it on one side over a year ago....aka 35k w/o any issues...and that includes wheelin' trips...

 

I use to get that squeal after being in the dirt for a long time. I have not noticed it for a while, maybe because it is not functioning properly. I guess I will not run right out and get a new part to replace it, but will still keep it in mind if I have some spare time and decide take that hub apart. It must be there for a good reason. I can't imagine they would have it there if it served no purpose.

 

So is it really an issue to be driving without this?

Sorry to be bringin back a zombie thread..
I dont want to hear it.

 

I am currently having the same issue, I was getting a high pitch squeal. I took everything apart and they are both torn. I'm also having a really hard time finding them.

 

is it #4? $34.27

 

Its number 10. I have a 2002 Ford Ranger 4.0 SOHC. Its this one http://dl.dropbox.com/u/20335423/IMG_0100.JPG
RDS 63.5 5h-15067 A085712