Push rod seal for disc brake actuator

Abstract

This is a reliable long-lasting removable seal for attachment to the push rod opening of a service brake actuator that is to be used with a disc brake system. The seal allows the service brake actuator to enjoy the benefits of having breather holes in its housing wall while preventing any unwanted contaminants brought in through such holes from being transmitted to the attached disc brake mechanism. The seal is a hollow molded piece in the form of a tubular insert made of a slightly deformable material that fits into the central opening in the lower service brake housing through which the push rod extends. Flanges on the insert sealingly engage the wall of the service brake housing, and a central bore sealingly engages the push rod. The insert may include a separate internal bushing made of durable material which supports at least one annular seal for engaging the push rod. The seal of the present invention prevents dirt, debris, moisture or other foreign materials from being transmitted by the push rod to the outside of the service brake actuator housing where they could contaminate the sensitive internal parts of the attached disc brake system, thereby reducing the risk of failure and prolonging the useful life of the disc brake system.