Nitro engines and alcohol engines run aluminum rods . They have different characteristics . Alcohol 10,000 rpms top fuel 7,900 rpm's. So never put down the use of aluminum. I just ordered GRP for our small block. The rod on he left is the nitro rod on right methanol. You can see the material cut from the beam and big end on the alcohol rod and The open rod bolt to measure stretch.
I bought rods for my street motor . I bought H beam
Your right it is all about money. But you only get what you pay for. If your going to spend money start at the foundation. You don't build a 3 story steel building on a cinder block foundation. I would not use 318 rods on anything for street performance if I want durability. I would use at least a 340 360 bushed rod. with floating pins That's Just me.
