Mini stress cracks on front engine cover

[okm12346]

Just pulled the front cover and cleaned it really nice. I notice some hair line cracks on the outside of the oil pump and some other random places. Flipped the cover and I didn't see any on the inside. Are these surface cracks? Is this normal, it's a 95 car. The cover itself didn't have any oil, just some black dust - from the belts i guess

 

[95blackGsTurbo]

Are you sure they are cracks and not casting marks?

 

[okm12346]

nope, these are tiny cracks. i dont know if its safe to use the cover again

 

[95blackGsTurbo]

I wouldn't risk it. Replace it with an OEM unit.

 

[red95tsi]

nope, these are tiny cracks. i dont know if its safe to use the cover again

I agree with what 95blackGsTurbo said. Those "cracks" are casting imperfections. I'm building my motor for my car now and my front cover is brand new and looks cracked. Even though I'm sure these are most likely casting imperfections, it still should be replaced with a new one. I would replace it with new simply because of it's age.

 

[GRAVEDIGGER]

If they're really hairline cracks and NOT casting imperfections then you better replace it. Replace it now or pay later

 

[DSM_PWR]

Take a pic of the front case so we can help identify the marks