2001CamaroGuy

iTrader: (6)

Hello everyone. I'm building a 383 using an LS6 block and LS7 crank with the LS7 factory dry sump system. My goal is 500rwhp NA (possible supercharger/650rwhp down the road) and 7000RPM max. I need some advice/input on the factory LS7 Ti rods.

I have the option to pick up a complete set of LS7 Ti rods for $400 (10,000 miles and checked out as ready to use).

For about the same price, I can pick up a set of forged rods (eagle/scat/etc.).

Which is a better rod to go with? Why? What are the advantages/disadvantaged to each (obviously Ti is lighter)?


Thanks,
Chris

KCS

iTrader: (20)

How much do you want to pay to balance the crank?

2001CamaroGuy

iTrader: (6)

??? what? I don't understand your question (well I do, but what does that have to do with the rod choice?).

I am aware that the LS7 crank is pre-balanced for LS7 rods, so steel rods could/will required more heavy metal. But I'd rather pay more in heavy metal if it means the engine lasts longer (doesn't kick a rod).

litle88

iTrader: (20)

Both are different rod lengths
Your LS1 connecting rod length is 6.098 inches.

The LS7 Titanium connecting rod length is 6.064 inches.

They also have to remove the reluctor and have a 24x reluctor fit. The piston pin diameter is .925" on the LS7 rods and .944 on an Ls1/6 iirc.

But I'd go with an Hbeam rod and ditch the Ti ones.
Just my .2 bud.

2001CamaroGuy

iTrader: (6)

I'm building a 383 using the LS7 4" stroke crank, so I'm using forged pistons with 0.925" pins either way. So either I will use the LS7 6.067" rod or a steel 6.125" rod.

I'm running the 58x reluctor to work with the 2010 camaro ECU/harness/etc.

Why H-beam vs the Ti (just because of the rod length issue?)?

KCS

iTrader: (20)

Well, the LS7 crank is factory balanced to a bobweight of about 1550g. With steel rods, and obviously depending on your piston choice, your bobweight will typically be 1750-1800g. That's a lot of heavy metal. After balancing, you may wish you had just gone with an aftermarket forged crank.

The titanium rods don't exactly drop right in, but they work with just a little bit of machining that needs to be done anyways.

litle88

iTrader: (20)

What are you putting this into? The BMW?

2001CamaroGuy

iTrader: (6)

Sounds like the Ti rods are the best for my setup all around.

Yes, this is going into my BMW Z4 roadster.

v8pwr

iTrader: (19)

What they're trying to tell you is the LS7 rods will require more work and money to install. The difference in rod length and piston pin size will require a custom piston. You can buy an aftermarket crank, rods, and pistons that will work well together without breaking the bank.

litle88

iTrader: (20)

Yes, I'd just go with an Hbeam rod and pistons to go with that crank. Just my .2

HarshReality

If you don't pick up the Ti Rods shoot me a PM. I would pick them up for the $400.00.


Thanks

2001CamaroGuy

iTrader: (6)

Already paid the guy this morning and he shipped them this afternoon.

I compared the weights of the LS7 vs steel rods and I was looking at almost $300 in heavy metal to balance (in addition to the balancing costs).

HarshReality

Sounds about right balancing cost can spiral out of control quickly. The LS7 Ti rods is a sure bet to save you some money. Cheaper to remove metal from the crank than add heavy metal. Considering your smaller pistons should be lighter than the LS7 OEM pistons.

2001CamaroGuy

iTrader: (6)

That's what my engine builder and I are thinking. Might actually get to make a lighter rotating assembly.

texas94z

That's awesome that you're going to run LS7 rods. I can't wait to see the results.