Overall the 350 i am working on doesn't look in bad shape at all. Would it be safe to use the stock rods and the crank in an engine with over 300hp, or should i get a new cast crank and stage 1 or 2 rods?

 

Nothing wrong with the stock cast crank. I wouldn't toss a GM original crank for a cheap Scat or other crank anyways. Well maybe if we were talking a stock cast crank versus a cheap forged crank or something. Stock rods and cranks have taken up to 500HP. Just make sure they are all in good shape. If it worries you and you have a little money to play with there are things you can do to improve the strength. If you polish the rods and shotpeen them it will improve their strength. Have the crank turned with a generous fillet at the ends of the journals and then polish the entire crank. While it is being turned have them shotpeen it as well. I don't think any of this is required for an engine in the 300HP range but if it gives you peace of mind then go ahead. Just be aware all of this changes the engine's balance. I wouldn't do all this without balancing after it was done.

[This message has been edited by Grand Prix (edited July 06, 2001).]

 

300 HP from a 350 is nothing to worry about stressing the bottom end, I would not hesitate to use a stock crank and rods for that.

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"So many Mustangs, so little time..."
ICON Motorsports

 

As is...you should probably have it checked out and turned if needed, as well as having the rods resized.

You may already have this in mind, but I kinda took your question as reusing the orginal parts w/o reworking them.