OK, things have gotten worse!!! Since I was able to successfully replace my shaft seal 2 years ago, and the symptoms were identical, I got a new shaft seal, and today went to replace it. When the pump was primed I started it up and the drip leak was really bad!!! I took it apart and checked everything, 3 times. No visible cracks or issues, seal and impeller look fine, but still leaking. So out of desperation I actually put the OLD seal BACK! The drip is better than with the new seal but worse than before! Oh boy!!! What have I gotten myself into. Seriously considering a new pump now, but still wondering what the heck is going on. Do shaft seals need time to form? Can they be flawed even if they look fine and fit tightly? Spring part is on impeller, ceramic part on shaft, graphite against ceramic - is this correct? Can a drip be a sign of age (pump is just shy of 6 years old - running 12 hours a day for 6 months each year?) Confused and frustrated. Please help!