The small groove might increase oil consumption a bit and increase crank
case pressure but you could run it that way for years to come
make sure the groove does not have high spots on the sides and hone the
cylinders
good luck
Bob Donalds
Boston Engine

----- Original Message -----
From: "Jeff Kennedy" <kennedy@THERIVER.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, July 27, 2005 3:42 PM
Subject: How bad is a scored cylinder wall? -I4

Hi,
 A while back my tiico I4 ate it driving down the freeway. I've taken a
good look, looks like the damage happened in cyl 3 - a big - about 1" x
�"  - chunk came off and banged around a bit. The cylinder wall looks
and feels perfect except for one tiny groove I can just barely feel when
I run my finger over it. All the other cylinders look fine.

Can I get away with just replacing the one piston/rings? Will a hone
help things? I will be replacing the valves on that cylinder as well.
The motor has 40000 miles on it, compression was 140 all around 5000
miles ago. Not sure what my options are for boring, its already bored
from stock for that block. I would probably buy a used motor rather than
all new pistons.

Thanks for any advice,
 Jeff