outboard shaft seal

[alf1]

some time ago i stripped down my outboard and replaced the main bearing and crankshaft seal.I did not note which way the seal went ie cup facing in or out.the engine runs ok.but are they intended to stop vapour been blow out or air shucked in

 

[tross]

The "cup" should be facing in

 

[VicS]

Mine, Evinrude, has the top one fitted with the cup facing in but the bottom one with it facing out. The top one is much heavier than the bottom one for some reason.

But I have found all sorts of different arrangements on different models (Looking at engine diagrams not from dismantling lots of engines)

You should consult the manual but if it runs OK dont worry.