Rod Bolts
 

I was at Ramchargers today, and needed a set of rod bolts for my engine as I want to freshen it up a little. I purchased a set of rod bolts (ARP-150-6004) that the sales clerk says he has on his 302. I described the rods on mine as stock (which they are), and he got these bolts out for me. As I didn't have the catalog or anything, I assume they're the right ones. Now that I have the chance to see them, they seem too big, and according to ARP's site, they are for the 302 boss or 351W. I just want to know if I am stuck or do I have to go across the border to exchange them. I won't be able to get back for a while, so I'd like to know if my rods will accept these, or if I can do anything to them that'll make these work, if it won't hurt the rods at all. Or if they will work.

Those are 3/8" bolts, and you need 5/16" bolts. you will need to exchange them

Take care,
~Chris

That figures, I've had bad luck with my last purchases when I cross the border. Guess I should invest in a catalog or too and just go straight to the part numbers. Thanks for the info.

Can't the rods be drilled out to accept the 3/8 bolts? I think I read somewhere once that it can be done for additional strength.

I wondered about that, but wouldn't that reduce strength in the rod as material is being removed?

This may be a stupid question but how do you get the old rod bolts out? I have my motor on a stand right now and was considering changing the rod bolts (the shortblock is complete and assembled)

Thanks,

When I took my engine apart, I used a plastic mallot and tapped the bottom of the bolts.

I forget which years they were ( I think '69-70) the rods had more metal around the shoulders which would allow for them to be drilled out if needed.
I would ask a reputable machine shop and see if you could drill yours out safely or not.....just to be safe.