How long should an HW break barrel breech seal last

[blackfrog]

I would remove all lubrication from the seal issue to start with. Hook out the old one, brake clean the area and dry thoroughly before inserting a new one. I worked in the rubber industry for many years and even the slightest touch of a chemical on a synthetic material can cause rapid breakdown of the structure.
In all my years of using Weihrauch rifles, I have yet to see a seal crumble. I have pieces going back to the early eighties, and all have original seals.
If you must clean it, try Liqui Moly Gummipflege. Put a drop on a cotton bud and wipe it over. It has a remarkable way of softening synthetics especially rubber. Approach carefully, as it may soften the seal too much.
For those with crispy recoil pads, this product can breathe life into them. Clean first with diluted washing up liquid, then wipe over with the Liqui Moly. It will penetrate and lift grime out of the rubber. Wipe away with Kitchen towel and wipe over another thin layer and leave for a while before wiping off. Be careful as it will soften the rubber, so while you are waiting, store barrel-down to avoid mis-shaping the pad.
The product works very well on all rubber Items including car trim, tyres, diving equipment etc so worth the investment.

[Barryg]

I would remove all lubrication from the seal issue to start with. Hook out the old one, brake clean the area and dry thoroughly before inserting a new one. I worked in the rubber industry for many years and even the slightest touch of a chemical on a synthetic material can cause rapid breakdown of the structure.
In all my years of using Weihrauch rifles, I have yet to see a seal crumble. I have pieces going back to the early eighties, and all have original seals.
If you must clean it, try Liqui Moly Gummipflege. Put a drop on a cotton bud and wipe it over. It has a remarkable way of softening synthetics especially rubber. Approach carefully, as it may soften the seal too much.
For those with crispy recoil pads, this product can breathe life into them. Clean first with diluted washing up liquid, then wipe over with the Liqui Moly. It will penetrate and lift grime out of the rubber. Wipe away with Kitchen towel and wipe over another thin layer and leave for a while before wiping off. Be careful as it will soften the rubber, so while you are waiting, store barrel-down to avoid mis-shaping the pad.
The product works very well on all rubber Items including car trim, tyres, diving equipment etc so worth the investment.

Thanks for the info, I only use moly grease like bum slide and express gun oil on my guns so I guess it must be the oil, here is a pic after removing the seal it does look a bit greasy around the TP.