To Stroke, or not to Stroke

In geometric terms rod length affects piston height. In terms of performance a longer rod (tee hee) is better because it gives the piston more "dwell" time at TDC and BDC and lowers piston speed as well as rod angularity, thus reducing side loads on the cylinder walls. Some say this is why engines like the 318 last forever; they have super-long connecting rods (6.123") but only 3.31" stroke, so there's very little side load on the cylinders compared to a similar-size Phord or Chebby engine.