Replaced front oil seal  on the 1650 (gas), I did smooth out the ridges in the cover as suggested. I used a straight edge to gage how flat the surface was. With the new seal in place I had no gaps. Put it all together after soaking the seal in oil for a few hours plus put grease all over everything. Did the initial leak check, ran tractor at various throttle settings for about 30 minutes. No leaks. 

Put together tractor, painted everything up and took it to the club show this past weekend. No leaks in the run between the house and show grounds (10 - 15 minute tractor ride). Daughter took it for a parade run more or less just above idle for a 20 minute ride and now it's leaking, just enough to drip on the front tires.

I've never considered &quot;break in&quot; for a seal of this type, but should I just top off the oil and let it run while I watch and see if it stops? My gut instinct tells me I need a new timing cover. 

Thoughts? Any sources for a new cover? I haven't checked with my favorite dealer.