Just that small gouge? I think you'll be fine. There's a top engine builder in my state, Billy Briggs, who laser cuts a .030" hole in the front of the cam plate so it can provide extra oil to the timing chain for endurance engines. Doesn't bleed off enough pressure to change the gauge reading. I'd use a bit of Hi Temp Ultra silicone in that area, and send it. Remember, oil pressure is measured (USA!) in lbs. per square INCH. On a small area like that, I seriously doubt if it would see more than 2-3lbs per square inch. Even if it leaked a tiny bit, it would be pretty insignificant. Or, you could use a TINY bit of steel epoxy-aka JB Weld-to fill it. Just make sure you hone/fine file the high spots flush with the front of the block. Possibly put a shallow 1/8" diameter, 1/16" deep hole (CAREFULLY!!!!!) into the bottom of the "ditch" to help the silicone/JB stay put? You've got the plate off. I'd start a new thread on just how some guys here would address this issue. Best of luck to you.....

 

thank you, I’ll be starting the thread under Gen iii internal engine. Take a look in and see what others might have to say.

 

Look at the staining from the old seal. I think you will be fine. It will cover that area.

 

https://ls1tech.com/forums/generatio...l#post20576803

that’s the new thread, if anyone has any issues with the retaining plate as I did I have a solution that worked and that was the dremel with a carbide bit and a screw driver under the plate. Time consuming but it worked. If anyone needs me to elaborate on this solution I can go step by step.

thank you all who have posted in this thread trying to help me.