Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) Practice Test

A damaged grease seal on a bearing primarily leads to the contamination of the bearing, which is why this answer is the correct choice. Grease seals are designed to retain lubricant and prevent foreign materials, such as dust, dirt, water, and other contaminants, from entering the bearing system. When the seal is compromised, these harmful substances can infiltrate the bearing. This contamination can lead to increased friction, wear, and ultimately, a significant reduction in the bearing's lifespan and performance.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of a damaged grease seal. Improved lubrication would not occur, as a compromised seal would result in the loss of grease instead of retaining it. Also, better cooling is unlikely, since contamination can lead to heat buildup due to excess friction. Enhanced bearing load capacity is not supported by a damaged seal; instead, the additional contaminants would decrease the bearing's ability to manage loads effectively and could lead to premature failure. Thus, the presence of a damaged grease seal unequivocally leads to contamination, making this choice the most accurate.