whats a good brand for forged rods, pistons, and crank for an LT1? how are eagles? i want to build a FI lt1. i need to build my bottom end forged to run any decent psi.

 

I've had good results with Diamond pistons, Total Seal file to fit rings, Compstar rods and crankshafts on many builds in the past. Personally, I would stay away from Eagle. Bob

 

Diamond or Wiseco pistons and Callies Compstar is the way to go.

 

I run the Diamond Pistons, Total Seal AP series rings, SCAT forged Crank and SCAT 5.7" H Beams and SCAT 4 bolt splayed main caps using ARP studs/bolts on the caps. Like many things, at first glance, the SCAT crank seems like a lot of strength for the initial outlay of cash but by the time my machinist put enough drilling and adding the Mallory metal, the (a) Initial Cost + (b) labor to balance it + (c) Mallory metal($$$) cost about the same as a Callies or other major brand. I'm told that the Callies, etc are much closer to being balanced as delivered to your door. I listened and read a lot about the pistons before deciding to go with what was a 'safe bet' than the lowest cost. There are many piston brands out there that lure you with substantially lower prices but you have to factor in quite a few things on pistons...

• Of course your budget
• Weight
• How much PSI you're going to run EVER
• Silicon content(affects 'brittleness' and expansion properties)
• Rod length (5.7" or 6.0")
• Pin fit or full floating
• Ring type(Best to consult with the guys here or the manufactuer)
• Realistic assessment of total HP you will have as a goal
• Reputation in terms of durability/success with other guys with similar builds

That's my list anyway. That's why I chose Diamonds. I called Erik at Victory and spoke with him about 3 times. Great guy and good customer service. At first, I wanted the Hellfire rings but Erik talked me out of them. He said they were somewhat overkill for my goals(600 rwhp). He said the Total Seal AP series were more suitable.
All the other stuff, I got online