96Formula6spd

iTrader: (7)

Alright guys I am starting to put together a parts list for my 355 build. I have the pistons I am using. Pretty much following this guys method.
http://www.ellweinengines.com/Ellwei...Kit/355Kit.htm

The engine is going to be a weekend driver/autox/track day engine. Maybe with a few drag nights in there as well. Going all forged to make sure it can take a beating. Wanting to rev to 6400rpm. Aiming for 11:1 Compression on about a cc503 cam with stock heads.

Anyways I am stuck with two questions.

First question. Rod length. There is a 5.7 and a 6.0 inch rod option. I was thinking of going with a 6 inch rod. But what would you guys go with.

Also I have the option for I beam and H beam. I think the I beam will be more than enough for a non forced induction, non nos car. H beam just looks to be overkill along with the fact of the price increase. Going 7/16 inch bolts to be nice and strong.

So let me know what I should go with.

RamAir95TA

iTrader: (2)

For such a mild build I would save some money and use stock reconditioned 5.7 rods with 7/16" bolts. They can take a serious beating.

If you still insist on changing the rods, I'd use a 5.7" rod in a stock-stroke application.

lt1-xjs

If you have the pistons, then you have no choice between the 6" or the 5.7" rod. The part # on the piston will dictate what rod to use. Regardless I'd go with the 6" setup for the weight savings and the floating pin.

3DFORMULA

iTrader: (4)

RamAir95TA:
The stock rod positively can take a 7/16 arp rod bolt? I'm considering this path for my build. I was actually thinking about the 3/8 ones not realizing the 7/16 might could be used. I don't mean to hijack, just adding to the thread knowledge.

96TransAmboosted

iTrader: (8)

i would not pick the 6. rod , i would also go with the 5.7 with better rod bolts

FormulaJoe

iTrader: (5)

Why 5.7" and not 6"? Just curious.

1963SS

What pistons do you have. The compression height of your pistons will dictate what size rods you are going to use. LT1-xjs mentioned this a few posts back.

96Formula6spd

iTrader: (7)

Going with these pistons. Or at least at this moment.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/MLE-SBC250030F05/

05HD

If you clicky on the little "application" thingy there, it says those pistons are for 6" rods. So, you'd probably have about 4:1 compression if you used 5.7" rods with them. Either that or it would just rip the skirts off on the crank counterweights the first time you hit the key.

96Formula6spd

iTrader: (7)

then its settled on 6 inch rods.