I apologize ahead of time for asking such trivial/fundamental questions, but still playing catch-up on a lot of mechanical basics.



Since I assume excessive banging on the crank nose is likely discouraged, after the key slot has been thoroughly cleaned out and de-burred/filed, how do you decide where to draw the line on filing down/fitting the woodruff key? While popping it in the freezer beforehand would likely allow some installation latitude, I don't want it to jam halfway in using a brass mallet, and then have to drag out a sledgehammer to seat it fully (or pry it out and start all over, for that matter). If it's TOO easy a press-fit, even though it's captured, would it then be more likely to break/fail or widen/damage the keyway?



Also, still wondering if anyone has ever come across a substitute for the OEM reinforced rubber valvecover-stud/valleypan-bolt seal that shreds debris when removed?

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA