I have an LS/VTEC engine with stock LS (B18B) rods, rod bolts with PR3 pistons in an ITR head. Also have I/H/E etc.

I would like to rev to about 9000 rpm and build in excess of 185 HP.

I am planning on upgrading to ARP rod bolts and ARP Head studs.

I am contemplating upgrading to Eagle rods as well, but funds are scarce so I won't do it unless I have to.

I was wondering at what point would it be advisable to upgrade the rods (RPM and HP levels being used as my reference) ???

Thanks

 

there are plenty of ways to get to 185hp without having to rev to 9000

 

Can you share those methods please ?

Thanks

 

Let me also re-phrase the question:

At what HP level should it be necessary/advisable to upgrade my stock LS rods ?
(175 HP, 200 HP, 250 HP ?????)

Thanks

 

what are your goals, i.e., street, track, or both. For 185hp stock rods and arp rod bolts will work just fine. You can probably come pretty close to that 185 mark depending on header selection, EMS, and tuner, with your current set up.

The stock rods work for just about all street use. I'll probably get disagreements about this, but the stock rods work well if kept under 82-8500 or so and about 210-20hp is about the limit for stock rods. Give or Take of course.