Big Block Connecting Rods

[Joe L.]

Well, here's another one: eBay #8013310526. This is a set of GM #3969804 connecting rods. These rods were used for 1969 L-88 and ZL-1 ONLY. They were never used in PRODUCTION before or after 1969. These are, without a doubt, the best big block rods that were ever offered by GM. Very expensive, too. When they were discontinued by GM a few years ago they carried a GM list price of $205.77/each. So, paying a $1000 for the set doesn't sound like too bad of a deal?

Yes and no. It's a good deal for a set of GM #3969804 rods. However, if what one is after is a high quality, super strong connecting rod, then one could do a lot better in the aftermarket. For less than this price, one could have a set of superior, aftermarket, cap screw-type rods. So, as good as the 3969804 rods are, it just does not make sense to pay this kind of money for them. Besides, what judge is EVER going to know what connecting rods are in the engine?

[mike mccagh]

Re: Big Block Connecting Rods

Joe: i recall a judging experience about 10 years ago, at a national meet, where the 67 big block mechanical judge questioned the owner of a 67 435 block as to it being an original 4 bolt main block(the pipe plug near oil filter had been replaced by a allen bolt and was difficult for the judge to see). The owner of the 67, an experienced machine shop owner/builder, had the pan off the 351 blcok in about 10 minutes and the judge was forced to eat his hat.that's the only time the judges got top inspect the underside of an engine.mike

[Joe L.]

Re: Big Block Connecting Rods

Mike-----

That judge might have been too quick to eat his hat. The demonstration that the block was a 4 bolt proved nothing. 4 bolt mains can EASILY be retrofitted to 4 bolt main configuration. It's "child's play" and done all the time.