WWII era leather seal trannies?

[Augdog1964]

Hey all,

The T-34 I've been told, probably has a tranny with leather seals... anyone run up against this in the past? If it does, they say you have to use specific fluid or the seals can dry out and become brittle... what should I avoid?

Thanks!

 

[Stretch44875]

Can't help you with that specific tranny, but have used leather seals at work. I would think as long as you move it regularly should be okay. Only thing I can think about leather was we had to pre soak the seals in oil before installing them.

 

[Malyutkaman]

I would think that you should probably avoid anything synthetic. Use only mineral oils, or petroleum based lubricants (should keep the seals from drying out). Also Stretch44875 is correct.......run it regularly.