No, the seals aren't damaged and do grab around the axles cleanly... Yes, the axle surfaces are nice, smooth, and shinny. It was the little bit of in-and-out play that was concerning me, just didn't think or remember to put them in 'dry'.

I wonder if me greasing the inside ring/seal that touches the axle is allowing the fluid to seep out through or around the grease, and not letting it actually seal. If so, I wonder if I'll be able to clean the grease off well enough for it to not seep the fluid anymore.

I'll go ahead and pull the axles again this weekend and see if I can't get the little bit of grease off... if I can't, then I'll have to pop them out and replace, which will be a pain in the ass while still in the car.

- J