Removing the seal opens a whole can of worms.
Why? I have done it several times over the years and it hasn't caused any problems at all. As long as the lip.on the seal.and the groove in the retainer are clean then it simply slots back in the groove easily with the aid of the slightest smear of red rubber grease, which also aids its future removal if need be.
But if you are hamfisted, then it may well do.



