Since all else is OK and it doesn't affect function in any way, I assume it's only a matter of curiosity.
It's totally possible that this area was damaged sometime during manufacture, or possibly was clamped while the axle was built up, and since it was immaterial they built it up into the hub.
As long as it doesn't cause any problems, chalk it up as one of those great mysteries of life.
__________________
FB
Chain-L site
An ounce of diagnosis is worth a pound of cure.
Just because I'm tired of arguing, doesn't mean you're right.
“One accurate measurement is worth a thousand expert opinions” - Adm Grace Murray Hopper - USN
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Last edited by FBinNY; 02-27-11 at 09:04 PM.