Spring Rings Inside Rear Axle tubes?

[Zobo]

Can anyone tell me what these are? They were in the rear axle tubes on my 73 Bronco? They are springs in a ring shape. They popped out from inside the axle tube. Thank you

 

[Revelation]

Off the rear seals, Werre the seals in bad shape and leaking?

 

[Zobo]

I hadn't noticed any leaks but I've only had the Bronco for about 3 days before I started tearing it apart. And yes they did come from out behind the seal when I was cleaning the axle housing. What are they exactly?

 

[ryansbronco]

it is part of the seal
http://www.tomsbroncoparts.com/prod...bearing-2-78-66-75-early-ford-bronco-new-each

 

[Zobo]

Oh wow... ok thank you

 

[Quick & Dirty]

Pretty much every lip seal has a spring like that to keep it tight against the shaft.

 

[siderbox]

Just for some trivia fyi
Those springs are called garter springs.