It's always interesting to see what kind of discussion these topics will generate! Guys, I have researched this to the enth degree, were talking probably 10 hours logged on 50 different sites to establish the best course of action. Turns out like most things on the net, there are a million different opinions heading in different directions. Regarding the pin "fix", it sounds like there have been many successful REPAIRS! using the pin method on a worn gear/crank. Also, there have been many failures! I don't know the ratio, there are just too many variables in the equation to consider. Again this is the deal on MY car: I paid next to nothing for it, it owes me nothing, I am not nearly addicted ENOUGH, to rip the car apart spend another 500.00 or so just to put it back together and in 2 weeks loose the transmission or some other pricey component to end up right back where I am today. This is my 4th or 5th diesel "hobby" car. Mitsubishi,VW,Mercedes in the last 10 years, I am sure this one wont be my last. To the die hard purist enthusiast, I apologize in advance if my hack job "ghetto" repair has struck a nerve. To the others that are curious, risk management seekers, and experimental automotive hobbyists, let me be your official guinea pig on this one. I will keep everybody abreast of the situation, it may be a dismal failure instantly, or it may take months or even years to reveal the flaw. Either way the glow or the egg on my face will not emotionally scar me for life, ok maybe a day or two!
Ok moving on, here's the skinny, I have drilled the holes, was going to use the old gear but during my 9th hour of lost sleep decided against it, why would you? So will get a new one today and re drill. I visited an old machinist dude yesterday and he gave me some very bizarre nylon impregnated steel/ titanium, yes titanium, 5/32 rod, that's the size I drilled. Its military spec so dont ask! You can't cut this stuff with a cobalt band saw from the industrial revolution, but put it in a vice and it will bend with out shattering. Too hard, too soft, too pliable or flexible? Who knows, again (see above). So new gear, bolt, a dabble or 2 of JB weld just because, and hold onto your experimental automotive horses

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I really appreciate all the experience of this site, you guys have been very helpful, the fuse has been lit and wether it fails or succeeds I think we will all take a little away from this.......look up definition,of FORUM you will see what I mean

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Stay tuned
Cheers
Wade