In mild engines, you don't need aftermarket fasteners (mains, rods, heads) and in performance engines, they are MUST. Where is the limit? I've heard, that 0-400hp and 0-6000rpm engines don't need aftermarket fasteners. Little over that you need aftermarket bolts and more further, you need studs. What is your practices and opinions?

Are FelPro fasteners as good as ARP ones?

 

i wouldn't put an engine of mine back together without arp rod bolts reguardless of it's intended usage or HP level.

 

I've got ARP rod bolts with new Scat forged rods. Just thinking about mains and heads. I'll use AFR 190 heads and 224/230 hydr roller cam and carburetor with RPM intake. Block is from 1988 trans am. I think, that I should be make appr. 420hp@5500 and I'll won't rev it above 6000rpm.