New flex coupler

[roverBLUE]

had a friend pick up a flex coupler for me today from a local shop. I was told it was OE and the price reflected this...$107 + tax. Came in a white bag not a LR box. No biggie-all components are present; 3 bolts, coupler and the pilot bushing. What concerns me is the condition of the rubber. When flexed, hairline tears are clearly visible in the rubber. Should I be worried/return it etc? I know the rubber is pretty dense, kinda like motor mounts and I know the coupler spins more than flex the way I was manipulating it. But I don't want to purchase/install a new coupler that is already tearing. Has anyone noticed this when they bought a new one? Input appreciated as I am installing this when I get off work in the am.

 

[RRCNicky]

Doesn't sound right to me...never noticed any cracks when I replaced mine for my classic...have since went to a U-Joint...

 

[Jagfixer]

OE is not Genuine in a white bag. Should not have any cracks at all. You will pay a little more for the Genuine at Rover Parts sources and you will find the Genuines will last a lot longer. You can do u-joints and never have to change again.

 

[roverBLUE]

Coupler has the same markings/stamping as oem; "Made in Germany, SGF, GAG1, 249782" Invoice lists the part as TVF100010. I'm pretty confident that it is a genuine LR part. I'm just worried about the condition of the rubber. I'm trying not to think that it is a used part...the metal sleeves do not look squeeky clean though. the best way to describe the condition of the rubber is maybe it has some dry rot?
went with flex replacement because of quick availability-wanted to take the Rangie on a trip. looks like I won't be driving it afterall.

 

[eliaschristeas]

just make a duct tape shroud and use my favorite - right stuff - to make a sticky diaper of sorts. pray. and then more duct tape!

 

[roverBLUE]

"Right Stuff Diaper"...that's awesome E!

 

[dave77]

When I replaced it on my 96 Disco, the OEM replacement did have "cracks" on the surface, but more like spider webbing. Put it on and keep a close eye on it.

 

[roverBLUE]

these were more than "spider" webbings. Called the shop and they said they bought couplers in bulk, they were oem and they package them in the white bags w/ new bolts and pilot bushing. Regarding the cracks-said they were normal and to install w confidence. Installed the coupler-yesterday and the small cracks are growing. uninstalling and taking coupler back for a replacement or a refund.