im about to pull out my engine for a rebuild soon. i was just wondering if i'll be able to notice any damage to the rotor housing visually. will i be able to tell if the housing is still good to use??

 

Yes, you should be able to visually see if it is damaged.
It is common to see evidence of flaking at the outer edges. As long as it doesn't exceed 1/8" it should be a usable housing. The center areas should be smooth with no nicks or grooving.

 

you pretty much have to pull the motor apart to see the housings on an 86-91 na motor, the exhaust insert blocks the view. if you take it apart, the side housings should be flat. if you can catch your fingernail its bad. the rotor housing should not have any wear marks, or peeling over 3mm.

mike