So I just ordered another replacement seal for my HDR. I replaced it with the newer seals when the motor had 5 hours and replaced it when I installed my mods as I slightly damaged it while removing the whole assembly. Well the new seal lasted 6 hours so I called and asked mudbuddy wtf is going on with their seals, he informed me that you are not suppose to spin it faster than 3500 rpm in reverse. Has anyone heard this BS before? I removed the old seal today and it looked new minus the missing spring inside so it wasn’t pinched or anything during installation.

Did he give you an explanation of why you were not supposed to exceed 3500 rpm in reverse?

Sounds like a preload/sideload torque issue that the engineers didn't think thru completely, so instead of fixing the problem, they just put limitations on the product.

He did not have an answer.

WOW. even in forward.... that thing is still spinning at a different ratio so the seal is not stationary to the ring gear/ planet carrier. Lube the seal, clean the carrier, and use gear oil.