So I'm pretty sure i can use my old connecting rods and crank in my new 35(5) rebuild, i don't see why not, but my question is- what should i look for to determine if a rod or crank is bad? Can i just replace the bearings and such and move on? what are the tolerances for the crank journals and how do i know if it needs to be machined (or turned or whatever it's called)? thanks for any help!!!

 

Magnaflux... step 1

Actually you should get a book on SBC engine rebuilding.
There are too many steps to mention here... Too many ways to screw up.
There are a number of good books out there too.

 

you'd want rods that are straight and each end correct size. same with a crank straight and journals correct diameter. you can resize rods and have cranks ground undersized to repair any problems. since you have to ask what to look for i'll bet you don't have anything to measure with so take your parts to your machine shop and let them measure them.