Originally Posted by rskrause

Most of the bottom end parts people buy are way overkill anyway. How many people have seen stock crank or rod breakage? Actually, the stock stuff is good. OTOH, if you are talking a hi-po build (not a mildly modified motor) better parts are needed. There is a difference between ultimate mateiral strength and utility of a part. There are QC and inspection issues as well as finishing. The good parts have spot on dimensions, are straight, flawless material, and so on. Politics aside, what you need depends what you are building.

WRT the Compstar line, poltics aside, what Callies is doing makes sense. The forgings are Chinese but they are finihsed and inspected here. Eagle also has a good rep. I'd stay away from the others, as much because of lack of familiarity asanything else. For me personally, USA all the way.

Rich

Originally Posted by rskrause

I would consult with the cam grinder. My own inclination is to make the rod fit, not the cam as the SBC is small diameter in the first place.

Rich

Originally Posted by SS RRR

The rods fit well. I changed up from Eagle to CompStar because my builder didn't like how tall the rod bolt profile was on the Eagles and felt too much material had to be taken off the pan rails to make them work. After lining up the two rods together the CompStar profile is significantly shorter.

Originally Posted by 96 mikez28

Interesting, are the 5.7" or 6" rods?