Abstract: A novel bearing-seal for the upper journal of a rotary self-cleaning strainer allows an existing strainer whose upper journal has become too loose to be reconstructed without the necessity of replacing the suction pipe, even though the suction pipe has been grooved by a set of circumferentially spaced wheels previously used for the upper journal. The bearing-seal can also be used in a new strainer instead of such a set of wheels. Where sealing is also required, the inventive bearing-seal has a sealing disc for replacing a previously used curved lip seal. The inventive upper bearing-seal significantly reduces rotational friction, enabling the strainer to be operated with significantly increased power efficiency, offering the potential for effective usage with lower pressure suction pumps.