360 crank has a large oil seal groove

[63dartman]

I just noticed that the crank on my 360 has a very significant groove where the front oil seal sits. (crank is out and almost ready for the machine shop to be rebuilt) It looks like it was actually machined that way. Is this normal? Yes it's the first time I have ever seen a 360 crank out of the engine.......guess that's why I'm asking . I don't have any calipers to give any dimensions either. Maybe I should get some of those.......thanks

 

[Mrmopartech]

What yearmotor is it and the front seal sits in the timing cover and rides against the vibration dampener? Do you have a digital pic of the crank,Mrmopartech

 

[toolmanmike]

If there is a wear groove it should be on the harmonic balancer where the seal rides. That can be corrected with a "speedy sleeve" available at most parts stores. I would also have to see a photo. toolmanmike

 

[63dartman]

Man do I feel stupid, Yeah now that I pulled my head outta my butt I do recall that the oil seal goes around the balancer just like it does on my 318. Sorry for the false alarm. Thanks for the smelling salts guys.
I looked at a picture of a 360 crank on ebay and the groove is machined in that one too. Not sure what it's for though.....