Smokinlt1

Do the rods need to be resized when converting to ARP rod bolts? If so, why? I figured you could just tap out the stock bolts and pull the new bolts through. I've never done rod bolts before, just your budget refresh on older sbc. Thanks

GIZMO

iTrader: (8)

Yes. If the rod cap is even slightly out of line you will damage your motor.

Smokinlt1

Guess I need to go look at the rods to get a better understanding of what your saying. My dunce cap is on hard and tight.

shbox

The correct way is to have them resized. Getting the bolts in/out can cause some distortion. That being said, have there been people that swapped bolts and not had them checked? I am sure the answer it yes.

the_merv

iTrader: (88)

I've never heard of Distortion, I've never had a problem with anything and I have taken Engines down.

Then again everytime I have removed Rob Bolts they were coming out, and new Bearings went in.

shbox

Every rebuild guide or book I have ever seen says to resize the rods if the bolts are changed. It's just SOP for a righteous build.

fergymoto

iTrader: (129)

Torque the stock rod bolts and measure the big end of the connecting rod with a bore gauge, diagonally and vertically and write down your measurements. Now change the rod bolts to quality ARP bolts and torque to spec. Measure again the same way you did with the stock rod bolts. Now you will see the distortion in many cases.

the_merv

iTrader: (88)

Oh I believe you guys, just never thought about it. Then again I've never changed Bolts in Rods either, always bought Eagle Rods with ARP Bolts in them.

fergymoto

iTrader: (129)

It's generally not worth the cost of putting ARP rod bolts in stock rods IMO. By the time you have them resized you have as much or more in them then a set of Eagle or Scat I beam rods with ARP cap screws cost.

Smokinlt1

Thanks Fergy I think I understand what your saying. Looks like it's time to get some rods then.

the_merv

iTrader: (88)

It costs $10 to check/resize Rods here.

sweet-94z28

iTrader: (30)

Yeah, my builder is swapping in ARP's and resizing for $105 including the bolts.