Is connecting rod bushings needed?

Why not just run pressed pins?

I agree. The floating pins really show no discernible advantage other than ease of assembly. It can be argued that floating pins eliminate some stress on the end of the rods and at the joint where the pin attaches the piston, but it is so minute, if at all the difference is not detectable.

Although, if you look back at all of the true HP factory engines, they did have floated wristpins. There was a reason there.