I want to run my d16 to about 320whp but I cant decide wether the eagle esp rods (budget $300) or some stock Ls rods would be just fine. I plan on good tuning from vafc/dyno runs. Looking for pro's and con's of your experience and any links. (Our search function sucks) Thanks.

 

Well I have the LS rods for my D16A6, and so far no complaints here. Everything is working perfectly. Dont spent to much money on the rods since you're going to customize them. I've spent around $80 for the bushings, and machining the rods plus $50 for almost new rods. All in all I'm happy .

 

so your rods in fairly new condition were $50? Your machine work was done to the block, right? Not the rods themselves? And your bushings would refer to your rod bearings? just trying to understand. Thanks

 

No, there was no machining done to the block to clear the rods. The only machining done was new bushings had to be customized to fit in the wrist pin for the piston. Also they had to shave off both rod ends (crankshaft end, and wrist pin end) If you look at the D series and B series rods you will see the difference. Also, I used D series bearings (for crankshaft) not B series. I hope I shed alittle more info.