Resolved Front case cracked? From 6-bolt mystery box

[AustinGST98]

Hello all,

I’m in the midst of finally getting my block all assembled after getting the time place and money. There appears to be some hairline spiderweb cracks in my front case, and I’m not sure if they are from manufacturing or the previous owner torquing it to hell.

Let me know if you would run it or if I should shell out for a fresh one. I probably shoulda checked it out before I ordered new seals. Thanks for your time!

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[1990TSIAWDTALON]

Buy a new replacement front pump assembly and install it. Call it done.
I have THIS pump for my split thrust 7 bolt that is on the engine stand. I also run that brand on my 6 bolt builds.

 

[AustinGST98]

I see STM has a front case but I’m not sure, are the helical and straight cut gear cases the same? I have straight cut gears and def would like to utilize them.

 

[92AWDHX40]

Don't chance it not worth it.

 

[ngerk]

Send it to me, I’ll run it.

But seriously, are we sure it’s not casting? I’m pretty sure both of my covers have them. I think they are all raised, like you can feel them.
Only reason I’m replacing one on my build is because the original cover has a broken ear where the alternator is.

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[1990TSIAWDTALON]

Very hard to tell. Does alcohol run thru to the other side? Thats about as thin of a fluid to test with.

 

[pauleyman]

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That looks like other cases I've seen. Part of manufacturing. Look like that when they're new.

 

[97egl]

Looks like casting flaws that a lot of these pumps have. Testing it with alcohol isn't a bad idea since it sounds like you don't know the history of the engine but looks like many I've had or seen

 

[ngerk]

Pics don’t do justice really. I see how it still looks like cracks. But in person you can clearly see raised edges (casting). I can sand one out and take pics.

 

[AustinGST98]

Right, some are raised and some seem flush, and none make it to the other side. Going to do a thorough clean and weeping test with the alcohol like you guys recommend. Mine looks almost identical to ngerks so it seems to be the norm.

Thanks guys for the help and pictures

 

[pauleyman]

Inside of a trans looks the same. This isn't a big deal.

 

[jdxnc]

It's just the casting, most look like that.

 

[ngerk]

Sands out without much effort

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[Drewpy Dawg]

This is a photo of my brand new, OEM 6-bolt cover fresh out of the factory packaging. It's just casting marks.

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[TerminalTalon]

If you are worried try some soapy water on one side and compressed air nozzle on the backside. Bubbles are bubbles.