I know its critical, but.. how hard is it to replace the stock rod bolts, and to keep everything the way it was (bearing clearances)? The situation would be..

Motor has less than 45k miles. Stock rods are strong enough for application, but can not be reved high because of stock bolt 'stretch'. Bolts need to be replaced by stronger aftermarket ones. Motor is intended to last another 100k.

What tools would I need to get it right?
I have a $85 Craftsman torque wrench
Do i need Snap-On?


[Modified by Quick 200k Mile Motor, 2:09 AM 2/15/2002]

 

You will have to tear the motor down to remove the rods from the block.

 

drain your oil, drop your ex manifold/header, drop your oil pan, and voila.
Why just the piston rod bolts? You might have to rotate the crank to get access to all of them. Or remove the engine. Depends on your tools and such.

 

if you are going to use aftermarket bolts like arp's, then you're gonna have to get the rods/rod caps cut and then have the rod assembly resized. the head and oil pan, etc. has to come off in order to take out the rods/pistons