So I replaced the axle seals on my 2000 Accord V6 with the automatic transmission for the first time the other day. I saw a few YouTube videos where they used grease on outside and inside lip of the seal. I then read a thread on a forum about a guy saying he couldn't get his to stop leaking until he used grease to install them.

So, I put a liberal amount of Lucas green grease I had on hand for wheel bearings on the outside of the seal, as well as the inside lip that the axle rides against. Then a very light coating on the axle where it rides against the seal. The install went well, although I haven't driven it yet to see if it's leaking, but I'm having second thoughts now. I know it's likely some of the grease got inside of the transmission and is mixing with the ATF. Knowing how picky and crappy these transmissions are, I'm worrying a bit about if I messed up big time.

Have any of you guys done this with any negative side affects? It seems like it's common for people to use grease instead of oil on YouTube. Can this harm the transmission, or am I overthinking this?

 

I would think the grease will just dissolve. I don't think the amount you used would harm the transmission. But...if you are really worried, over the next few weeks change the tranny fluid a few time to make sure it's clean. I think it's interesting that you used grease, I simply lubricated it a bit with the tranny fluid on the inside so it wouldn't "stick" at first to the rubber. But I understand your thinking for using it. I thought they were to be installed mostly dry. I think you are going to be fine.

 

in general, use a grease compatible with the fluid/oil. you may have to hunt down the info sometimes (SDS/MSDS is a good place to start when there is no other info available) but it's worth while in my opinion.

in your case there is probably not enough volume of grease there to matter even if it was "incompatible." like 99stockcivic said, it's just going to dissolve into the fluid (or melt depending on the flow temp)

the factory service manual will usually specify a type of grease to use in these instances. if you don't have one handy I can check mine to see what it says.

 

No need to use grease on the transmission seals.
Just coat the seal and the axle sealing surface with ATF fluid.