SD-455 pistons do not use an offset pin. Yes, they have a single complete cut for valve clearance. The rods do have a proper facing ID mark on them . I am refurbishing a stock engine right now. The cold noise maker were the clunky, heavy TRW forgings, the large piston to wall clearance specified, .006"-.0068" factory spec., and the high growth 2618 alloy used to forge them. Personally, I love the sound. Like a well tuned diesel until they warm to operating temperature. No doubt there is an SD-455 under the hood when one starts up cold.
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