Surface rust on connecting rods ,need help - Third Generation F-Body Message Boards

Rocksiroc · 09-22-2006, 06:18 PM

I am building a 383 and i was just about to start assembling it. Then i looked in the box where my rods and pistons were and noticed that the rods had surface rust on them. I had them in my garage, i was told to lightly sand them and oil them. Before i assemble should i clean them with soap and water or do they need to be professionally cleaned. The parts are brand new 5140 forged, i bought the rotating assembly from powerhouse. The pistons are already pressed on to the rods also. Can anyone give me advice on going about this pita problem.

Coach Hawk · 09-22-2006, 07:39 PM

use steel wool, scotch brite, or a wire wheel to scrub the rust off. don't sand them, it wouldn't do a good enough job. then clean them off with carb cleaner or something and oil them.

86camaro383 · 09-22-2006, 11:07 PM

If its not on the bearing surface i wouldnt worry about it to much, I say steel wool or something. Before you assemble that engine make sure everything is clean with brake clean, and a clean lent-less rag.