i think i ask before but i can't find the thread. how strong are the new model rods. 06+ years. i want to refresh my bottom end but i don't have alot of money to do it. so i was thinking ls2 or ls3 rods and a set of 5.3l wiseco pistons. will this do 600-800hp with out worry? meaning will the rods hold with this? i was thinking since it will be a fresh build with new bearings i could throw in some arp 2000 bolts in the rods. and a set of arp main studs.

i think i can work this to cost around $1000 for the build.

 

Im getting ready to test that soon. The week rods start to fail around 700-750hp. I think the newer Hd rods will another 100 or so. Im going to also be running factory 05lq4 pistons.

 

"weak rods" being the older ones? what part fails?

 

I got set forgen rods and pistions for under $1000.00
probe pistions.
scat rods.

 

how good are the scat rods? I've heard of them but never heard of them in a strong build.

 

So a search for Scat Rods on LS1Tech. There are numerous posts with reputible engine builders that say the Scat rods are exactly to same as some of the name brand entry level rods (ie:compstars, eagle, etc).

If your on a budget, pick up a used 5.3l and beat it to death. I see low mileage longblocks for $500 +/-. If your hell bent of building a shortblock, pick up some used forged rods and some 5.7l forged pistons. Looking at the price of 5.3l pistons, it would be more cost effective to just buy 5.7l pistons and overbore an iron 5.3l block. Once you get bug down the road to build another motor, the 5.7l will have a great resale value versus a 5.3L.

Rick

 

There's a thread on tech where the owner of scat rods gives a great run down on the company's practices.Search under flywheel bolts I think in ls1 internals dept.It is a good read about the company plus he cuts a great deal for ls1tech guys.I recommend evryone read it.He sound like a way stand up guy imo.

 

Its called an (open letter to scat).Jus google it I seen it on hardcore too.

 

Look into comp star rods as well!!

 

I was gonna run the new style/LQ9 rods. Even bought a set of ARP bolts for them. Took them to the machine shop for balancing and inspection. 2 of the rods would not spec out on the big end when the ARP bolts were installed (.0015-.002 off set with the ARP bolts). So I just bought the Scat I-beams from Jegs for like $270 I think. Forged and ARP bolts installed. Best bet IMO.