Replace piston or not???

Hi Guys,

Please look at the photo. The PO of my '68 cb450 used a screw driver to try and unseize the engine. Put. Nice gouge in the top of the piston. Should I replace it or is there eneough meat there?

If that is all there is damage wise, shave off the excess gently with a file. Let er rip!

The damage in the photo doesn't look all that bad.
That said, I'm a firm believer in the concept of, "if in doubt, swap it out!"

It's been seized, so honing and possibly even a rebore are in your future, meaning fitment will be less than optimal. I've seen pistons replaced for a lot less than that!

Unless you are going to run the engine hard that gouge should not cause you any problems.
I would smooth over any high spots that could lead to a hot spot.


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