Opinion on crank seal area pitting

[drdano]

I need some opinions.  I noticed some pitting on my 428 crank when I pulled it (see pic 1).  Had the local shop polish that area (pics 2 and 3).  I can still catch my fingernail lightly on two spots, just barely.  The shop said they think it would be ok, "but if it leaks, then put a rope seal in it."  Would you trust this to not leak?  I have a once-piece rear main seal from Roush on it's way, but if this is just going to corrode and chew up that seal and leak again, then I'm wondering if it's new crank time.  Unsure what to do, what does thou FE masters think?

[67428GT500]

Had you considered using the new one-piece rear main seal from Roush Racing? FE rear mains are already a pain in the ass. Why tempt fate?

                                                                                              -Keith

[drdano]

Yes, I have one on the way.   My worry is the pits will only get worse over time, so maybe this is a lost cause?

[67428GT500]

I don't think you'll have an issue with the pits degrading. Perhaps the usual ring where the seal over time grooves the surface it is riding on. However, I don' think that is of grave concern. It will probably out-live you.

                                                                                 -Keith

[67xr7cat]

As long as the seal lip does not ride on the pit you should be fine. A lot of times the front seal surface would have a groove in it from the seal. Would measure where the new seal would ride and as long as it would be on a good area never a problem. Steve