Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda G150 Engine, honda crankshaft, honda seized

Question
I had a Honda engine on my snowblower seize up and found the connecting rod bearing was in pretty bad shape and wouldn't turn on the crankshaft.  Only a very slight, small scratch is on the crankshaft towards one of the edges.  My thought is to replace the connecting rod and keep the crankshaft. Don't think it is worth spending the $$ for a new crankshaft, but the cost of the connecting rod would be worth a try.  Is this something that could work or am I doomed?  Thanks.

Answer
I'd probably try it myself if the scratch is small.  I'd try and polish the scratch out first.  A new crankshaft is expensive enough that I don't bother, I just recommend either a shortblock or engine replacement when we have something like that come into the shop.

What's the worst that can happen?  If it works then you save several hundred dollars.  If it doesn't, you were going to need a new engine anyway.

Personally, I'd bet it will work.

Thanks, PK.