Membrane install

[TreeTapper2]

Need help or guidance. I have a xle 4021 membrane that I'm installing into a SS vessel. The problem I am having is getting the membrane to seat all the way in. There is a rubber ring on the end that is causing enough resistance that is keeping the membrane from going in all the way. I'm not sure how hard to push or if there is another problem. Anyone with experience please help. Thank you.

[Bricklayer]

The rubber seal should be on the feed side of the membrane. So if your sap enters the top of the vessel that's where your seal should be.
Put some food grade grease on the oring to lube it up and it should slide in. Will take a little force but it will go. Especially a new membrane.

[TreeTapper2]

Thanks Bricklayer.

[maple flats]

If that seal is like mine, it will actually have a U shape. The open side of that U should face the membrane. As pressure builds it seals against both the membrane and the housing.