Reusing rod bolts on a tight schedule.

[alpha13]

So I am on a stupid tight schedule, like a couple days. Long story short, has anyone reused rod bolts on a stock 360? In a perfect world I know to replace them. But on a build that needs done in a few days can i get by with reusing the stock bolts? Any tips? I understand the consequences of my actions lol. Engine is going in a pickup. No hot rodding.

 

[skrews]

In a stock low rev motor I wouldn't bat an eye about the bolts. How out of round the rods are is the real question.

 

[RustyRatRod]

Yup, done it a lot of times in most every make engine. Rev hell out of it. If they break they break.

 

[krazykuda]

If the engine has never been apart, then you may be able to get away with reusing the rod bolts...

They should not be tightened more than 5 times, or I would recommend replacing them... After 5 clamp cycles they can get stretched too much and weaken... If you use plastic gauge, then only do it once, not many times... Small cost compared to a thrown rod...

 

[JBurch]

I've reused rod bolts lots of times and not had a problem; have the big ends checked for size, size IF needed and go

 

[Hellrats]

In a pickup truck... hell yea. Reuse them

 

[moper]

Careful not to overtorque them but I'd have no trouble reusing them.

 

[MrJLR]

You can lift an engine by the 1/4-20 carb screws....
Bolts are much stronger than most people think.

Jeff

 

[66fs]

You can lift an engine by the 1/4-20 carb screws....
Bolts are much stronger than most people think.

Jeff

They are 5/16 fine thread, But I agree with you.

 

[nm9stheham]

They are 5/16 fine thread, But I agree with you.

Which blows my mind visually, despite the strength predictions saying it is fine LOL.

Ditto with others; I've re-used rod bolts many many times, and a lot when racing 4 bangers.

 

[JBurch]

Something else to think about....................in the section of a FSM that deals with overhauling an engine, from a 6 banger to a Hemi, I've not ever read anything that they recommend replacing rod bolts as a must do

 

[volunteer]

I've reused rod bolts lots of times and not had a problem; have the big ends checked for size, size IF needed and go

I agree - 'spun bearings' more common than rod bolt failure. Suggest replace nuts though (the ones threaded on bolts)

 

[Grunchy]

My personal experience, my dad reused rod bolts overhauling an outboard. They didn’t take too long to break (outboards run hard).
Bolts are strong, but rod bolts are subject to endless cyclic loading, so they are prone to suffer fatigue fracture. I’d get them magnafluxed if at all possible.