How much HP would th stock LT1 rod handle? 500 maybe? How about the stock crank?

 

Stock bottom ends have been able to push 400rwhp on higher mileage motors. I have never seen an actual GM HP rating but if what you see on here doesn't say 500fwhp then I dunno what else to tell you. I'd say 500 would be a safe number to assume.

 

Agree with above. They are good quality pieces.

Rich

 

So, to machine block for 4 bolt mains would just be added insurance?
Thanks guys. That makes the decisions on the engine build a little easier on the wallet. I'm going with TRW/SpeedPro l2256F forged pistons.Any suggestions on Brand of bearings and rings? I've used Clevite bearings before without issues.

 

In summit they sold the LT1 powdered metal connecting rods. The description said 500 hp.

 

I would just use ARP main studs with the stock two bolt caps. That's what I'm doing and will be aiming for 410 rwhp. What hp are you looking to make? What rpm redline?

 

I've seen them handle 500 rwhp with no adverse effects.

 

GM rates the LT1 PM rods (only found after mid-94, earlier engines used forged) at 450HP. The two well documented cases of failure that I have seen occured at about 600HP.

 

I had one fail in a low mileage '97 stock LT1 engine (37k); the bearings were perfect, but the rod reverted back to powder at low RPM while driving down the road. My machinist couldn't find anything wrong, and guessed that maybe it was a bad heat treating job.