Is this piston usable?
 

Planning on doing 540's in the next year or two so just trying to put together current engines on a budget. The cylinder has pitting in it due to a poorly installed intake manifold gasket that not only allowed water into engine but also had a 1/2" split in the #7 cyl. I'm planning on having that cylinder sleeved this week but was hoping I could still use this piston. It has small pitting likely due to the water that sat in it. These are 60 over JE's. Will be using all new rings.

I personally wouldn't use it. You can just buy 1 piston

Thats what I was thinking, my only problem is I don't know exactly what I have. I know its 4.530" and has a 6.135 rod. Hopefully thats enough for JE to get me one. Its pre 04 so there are no markings except casting number.

fixx
 

looks like salt water dammage,,like mentioned i would not use it..if they are je castings inside then sent it to them and they can match it..

Correct me if i'm wrong but shouldn't he weigh the old one vs the new one and have them matched in weight?

fixx
 

yes,,one reason to send it in if theirs no part number to go by..

Not with the side skirt being damaged. I would be getting a new piston.

two questions.....

1) how much is a new piston???

2) how much is it going to cost to rebuild the motor if the piston comes apart at WOT and the rod is bouncing around???

As mentioned, replace the piston. Based on the specs you gave, the piston should have a compression height of 1.645 (9.8 block, 6.135 rod). It's just a standard JE flat top in 4.530 bore. Order part # 257985.
Eddie

I'd use that piston .Saw it through the wrist pin hole and make an ashtray