View single post by Judson Manning
 Posted: 11-20-2005 12:05 am
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Judson Manning



Joined: 03-14-2005
Location: Atlanta, Georgia USA
Posts: 406
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I've seen this 'groove' a number of times on neglected engines.  It's just where the original seal has worn to the point the spring inside is allowed to come in contact with the crank. 

The new(er) spec for the placement of the rear seal tends to put it outboard of the original location, so the groove is rarely a problem.  I always take some fine-grit sandpaper and hone the crankshaft a bit more when I do see this groove.

As Tim points out, you MUST be careful when placing the seal and torquing down.  There aren't any locating dowels and the thru holes in the rear cover allow for a lot of movement.  Mis-allign it and you'll spend another complete weekend tearing it down all over again.