Rods factory or aftermarket?
 

I'm looking to see if I'm missing something here. I'm going to swap my 3/8 truck rods out for a set of 7/16 rods. Is there any reason to buy the factory dimple rods? Even if I could get a set for $100 I can't seem to justify it. $100 for the rods, $65 in new ARP bolts and $10 per rod to have them reconditioned I'm at $245.00 for old rods. I can get new K1 7/16 rods with ARP cap screws for $299. I would think that the K1's are better. Is my logic right, or is it better to go with the dimples?

Go with aftermarket

fixx
 

+2 for the k1,,remember you still need balancing

The GM 7/16 rods are great. However the aftermarkets are also. Some that is. Having a used GM rod/rods reconditioned is probably what I would do however that's just me. This way each rod will be completely trued and better than that of it's original condition. Rods like other parts, they have a way of taking shape after being used. With that said, new rods aren't always better than older reconditioned ones. Chances are after having the GM rods reconditioned they will be way within the tollerances allowed and even better than off the shelf ones.

Even if you choose to go new I would have your machine shop carefully inspect them and check each one. I know opinions will vary however either way you decide to go I'm sure you'll be fine. Many rod manufactures these day are from over seas also. Not to say US steel is better than others but...

I hope I have explained in a manner that makes some sense.

I would go with a set of aftermarket rods as well. After you put all of that time and money into the 7/16 rods, you still have a rod with a pressed fit pin. The aftermarket rods should be bushed on the small end. Make sure you get rods with bushings so that you can run a floating wrist pin. I like the Scats. No matter what rods you get, definitely have the machine shop check them out really well.
Eddie

Looks like the choice is clear. That's 3 to 1. Go new. Sometimes I just tend to favor GM parts.

i have used gm rods for many years,but as eddy said,after all the money to recondition them,you could have a good set of aftermarket rods for a little more.any marine engine i build that is over 550 hp gets aftermarket h beam rods.

Thanks for all the input guys! I think I'm stuck with press fit pistons. Thats what I have right now. I've got both the pistons and rods for sale, but I'm still sitting on them. If I still have them by the 10th then I'm going to order the Carillo K1's or maybe the scats. If I get lucky and sell the set then I think I may go compstar h beams. We'll see.

There is nothing wrong with the GM rods. I just think if you are going to spend about the same amount of money, then you might as well go with the better H beams.
What type of pistons do you have? Chances are good that they will take a floating pin.
Eddie

Eddie.
I have Speed Pro L2268F pistons these are the USA ones. I guess the new speed pros are made in India? That would be great if I could convert these to floating! It would sure make life easier! Let me know.
Thanks
Mike