Don;
Aluminum rods are OK in applications like drag racing where the time the
engine is running at full power is short (a limited number of stress
cycles) and where they are replaced regularly after a short time. The
problem with aluminum rods is their susceptibility to fatigue failure.
Steel has far greater reliability in longer events; I would not use
aluminum rods in LSR. Forged 4130-- preferably shot- peened-- is my
choice.
Lighter rods allow faster engine response (revs up faster) but that's
not important in LSR.
Regards, Neil Tucson, AZ
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-land-speed@autox.team.net
[mailto:owner-land-speed@autox.team.net] On Behalf Of don felton
Sent: Monday, January 16, 2006 11:59 PM
To: land-speed@autox.team.net
Subject: RODS... Aluminum vs Steel
Hi All,
I'm building a new (370") S/B Motor for the old Roadster.
Trying to decide which type of Rods to use.
All I have ever used is Aluminum. Nice and light.
The Steel rods made of 4340 seem to run a 100-150 or so grams heaver
than Aluminum.
How does the weight effect running the Long and Short course' ?
Any helpful advise would be appreciated.
Thanks a bunch,
Don
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