Scratched Rod

Hi folks,
I am about to assemble my 750 motor when I noticed the rod is scored. It’s not deep, probably only about 10 thou deep.
Can the rod be used as is, should I polish it out or throw the rod at the cat next door that uses my backyard for a toilet?

The bike had new pistons, rings and a bore when I got it, although someone had left it out in the elements without spark plugs in! All wasted.
My assumption is the score was the result of a previous unexpected explosion in the engine.

I can’t get a real good photo with my camera but you get the idea.

Thanks

I would simply polish it out. If you are really worried you can send both rods away for crack checking.

Maybe it is just the photo but it looks like the surface of the rod is rough from corrosion. If that is the case it needs to be polished out also. If the erosion is deep I would discard the rod. Jim

In that location likely about the best spot and orientation - between the ribs at end near a strong low stress area compared to mid rod across the flats, likely a complete non issue. But for peace of mind while riding with the wind and respectful bragging rights and nice photo, I'd give it some folded sand papering to smooth out the groove bottom and ends then rest of rod before a nice polishing. Can think of rod scratches same way as as scratch for cutting glass. Don't take much a scratch if all the way across and perpendicular to stress, but other wise a lot of random scratches just mars the surface view. Most dangerous rod marks come from striking the edge of the cases. Wonder what caused yours - likely same reason you have it in hand.