How bad is surface cracking within front axle disconnect?

[mjs454]

I'm in the process of a front axle disconnect rebuild, per the sticky on this site (thanks!). One thing it doesn't mention is any apparent cracking on the inside surfaces of the housing (both sides in my case; see picture).

Front axle disconnect housing. Cracking?

How bad is this? Could it be a manufacturing feature, or stress induced where I should replace? The unit has ~180,000 mi on it.

I did find some posts about these casings failing... Definitely not a desired outcome. But replacing the housing + bearings + seals + one of the gears is very costly... Any recommendations for/against the ebay units?

Thanks!!

[Anthony Hernandez]

The inside of my discos have always been like that man. I think it’s just the irregularities in the cast.. they aren’t cracks... it’s superficial..