Connecting Rods

[zoomzoom2003]

How strong are the stock connecting rods in my 03/Protege LX, can they handle the compression of the FS-ZE pistons. Are the FS-ZE Rods stronger then my stockers? Who makes decent aftermarket rods

 

[smo0f]

you're not gonna find any answers by searching. don't try

 

[Installshield 2]

There are countless sources to find information on this subject...but I am bored...

The stock rods in the DE are the same as the ZE...they will handle the ZE pistons perfectly fine...but that doesn't mean the rods are strong...

almost every business that you can find linked on this site sells much better than stock rods...all of which are forged and relatively inexpensive compared to some other brands...and all of which are much stronger...

 

[65racecoupe]

Stock rods suck for high horsepower applications. I really really need to put up a picture of stock rods next to the ones Beau sells (or other vendors sell).

Beau does use stock rods at the shop though. They help to fill up the garbage can, but that is about it.....

You NA guys will usually have to do EVERYTHING (ported head, cams, full exhaust, injectors, etc) before you have to worry about the stock rods.

That is for a good stock engine. Many people have blown them with hardly any mods, some people make well over 250 wheel hp boosted on the stock block.

 

[Brian MP5T]

Stock rods make nice stocking stuffers..

 

[Gen1GT]

I'm going to run my stock rods thoughout my entire build. The BP rods are better than the FS rods, plus I'm going to debur, balance, lighten, polish and shot-peen them. They should be good for my 170whp goal.

The FS rods should be the first thing to go for a serious NA build. Once again, it's not the power that kills them, but the revs.

 

[robp5t]

Pautter rods are great and so are Carilo both not to bad on price.

 

[Brian MP5T]

Weight is an issue as well.

 

[Gen1GT]

Yeah, you want rods that are light as possible, while being as strong as possible for NA.

 

[Installshield 2]

free bump zoomzoom2003, if you have more questions about this stuff just post them in here...