1). the front bearing has two seals. Which one goes on the outside- green or black? I'm guessing the black seal.
>>> green or black is all ok. You can remove one seal.

2). which side of the rear bearing faces the backplate? the caged or uncaged side? the stock bearing currently in the engine has the cage facing away from the backplate. I assume this is correct?
>>> ball's retainer face to the crankcase so it won't fall off.