Etched Races

[Chris KC]

I have a new old stock Hoffman rear main roller bearing, only thing is it has slight corrosion etching (dark discolouration) on the outer race. My 'received wisdom' is that etching can bring about premature failure, but unsure just how big a threat that is in an A7. I read somewhere that if you can polish it off it's OK; needless to say I can't.

Part of me thinks it's a darn good bearing with a minor defect; and part thinks why use a defective bearing when new substitutes are to be had?

So, anyone out there have the necessary expertise / experience to say whether it belongs in my engine or in the waste bin?