Best Engine Connecting Rod Connecting Rods of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Engine connecting rods are an essential component of any internal combustion engine. These long, slender rods connect the piston to the crankshaft, transferring the energy produced by the combustion process to the crankshaft. They are typically made of high-strength steel or aluminum alloys, and must be able to withstand extreme forces and temperatures. Connecting rods must also be precisely machined and balanced to ensure smooth engine operation and prevent catastrophic failure. Whether building a high-performance engine or replacing a worn-out component, choosing the right connecting rods is critical to the success and longevity of the engine.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Allstar Engine Connecting Rod and Piston Holder Cover #TOP 1
Allstar Engine Connecting Rod and Piston Holder
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Allstar Plastic Engine Connecting Rod Guide Tool Cover #TOP 2
Allstar Plastic Engine Connecting Rod Guide Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Lil Red Barn Connecting Rods for Onan P218/P220 Cover #TOP 3
Lil Red Barn Connecting Rods for Onan P218/P220
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Engine Connecting Rod Connecting Rods

#TOP 1

Allstar Engine Connecting Rod and Piston Holder

ALL96478
Black
Allstar Engine Connecting Rod and Piston Holder Cover
Allstar Performance ALL96478 Engine Connecting Rod and Piston Holder , Black

The Allstar ALL96478 Engine Connecting Rod and Piston Holder measures 24" long x 12" wide x 9.5" tall and has slots of 4.75" long x 1.5" wide to fit most piston/rod combinations. It supports piston and connecting rod assemblies safely during engine teardowns or assembly. You can disassemble it if desired after use for easy storage.

What We Like
Safe and reliable way to support piston and connecting rod assemblies
Can accommodate most piston/rod combinations
Easy to store due to disassemblable feature
#TOP 2

Allstar Plastic Engine Connecting Rod Guide Tool

Allstar Plastic Engine Connecting Rod Guide Tool Cover
Allstar Performance ALL96480 Black Plastic Engine Connecting Rod Guide Tool for 3/8" or 7/16" Rod Bolt

The Allstar Plastic Engine Connecting Rod Guide Tool is designed to fit 3/8 inch or 7/16 inch rod bolts and is made from high-quality black plastic. This tool is designed to simplify the piston installation process and prevent rod bolts from hitting the crank. It is a must-have tool for any engine builder's toolbox, and it is sold individually.

What We Like
Compatible with two different sizes of rod bolts
Made from durable black plastic
Prevents rod bolts from hitting the crank during piston installation
#TOP 3

Lil Red Barn Connecting Rods for Onan P218/P220

00882
silver
Lil Red Barn Connecting Rods for Onan P218/P220 Cover
Lil Red Barn Two Standard Connecting Rods Compatible with Onan P218, P220 B48 BG48 Replaces Part # 114-0397, silver

The Lil Red Barn Rods come as a set of two connecting rods designed specifically for Onan P218 and P220 engines. These rods are made using gravity casting, which makes them stronger and more durable, so you can rely on them for long-lasting engine performance. They are not manufactured in China or Taiwan, giving you confidence in their quality and origin. Plus, the product includes clear torque specifications, helping you install the rods correctly and safely. This makes the Lil Red Barn Rods a practical and trustworthy choice for anyone needing reliable engine parts.

What We Like
Gravity cast strength
Set of two rods
Non-China/Taiwan made
Includes torque specs
#TOP 4

BUHNSS 3.308" Aluminum Connecting Rod for Predator 212cc

3.308"
silver
3.308
BUHNSS 3.308" Aluminum Connecting Rod for Predator 212cc Cover
BUHNSS Billet Aluminum Connecting Rod (3.308") For Predator 212cc Engine Go Kart Cart

The BUHNSS Aluminum Connecting Rod is designed specifically for the Predator 212cc engine, making it a perfect fit for your go-kart or cart. It comes complete with bolts and bearings, so you have everything you need for installation. The rod bolt torque is set at 170 inch/lbs, which ensures a secure and reliable connection when you use the recommended 1/4" 12-point socket. With a center-to-center length of 3.308", it matches perfectly with 1.188" crank journals and .709" wrist pins, maintaining the standard OEM length. This helps you achieve precise piston positioning and smooth engine performance, especially useful if you are running modified engines with factory crankshafts and OEM pistons.

What We Like
Perfect Predator 212cc fit
Includes bolts and bearings
Precise piston positioning
Standard OEM length
Secure bolt torque specification
#TOP 5

MOTO1988 Connecting Rod for Club Car DS/Precedent FE290

1016475-01
MOTO1988 Connecting Rod for Club Car DS/Precedent FE290 Cover
Connecting Rod STD For Club Car DS Precedent Gas Golf Cart FE290 Engine 1016475-01 13251-2077

The MOTO1988 Club Car Connecting Rod is designed specifically for 1992 and newer Club Car DS and Precedent gas golf carts equipped with the standard FE290 engine. This ensures you get a perfect fit if your cart hasn’t been modified with oversized pistons or bored-out engines. The product comes as a brand new single connecting rod, making it a convenient replacement part to keep your engine running smoothly. Before purchase, you can easily verify compatibility by checking the model details, pictures, and OEM numbers provided. Also, the recommended torque for installation is low, helping you avoid over-tightening and potential damage.

What We Like
Model-specific fit
Brand new part
Easy compatibility check
Low torque requirement
#TOP 6

Generic Predator 212 Billet Connecting Rod

Generic
P212 3.308
3.308
Generic Predator 212 Billet Connecting Rod Cover
Predator 212 Billet Connecting Rod (3.308") – Hemi & Non-Hemi Made in the USA

The Generic Predator 212 Rod is a high-quality connecting rod made in the USA from precision-machined aluminum billet. This means you get a strong and reliable part built with great accuracy for long-lasting performance. It perfectly matches the original factory rod’s dimensions, so you can swap it in without worrying about fit or alignment issues. Plus, it has a built-in oil scoop that helps keep the crank journal well-lubricated at high engine speeds, which helps your engine run smoother and stay cooler. This rod is designed specifically for Predator 212 engines, ensuring a perfect match for your setup.

What We Like
Precision CNC machining
OEM fit and geometry
Integrated oil scoop
Made in USA aluminum billet
#TOP 7

BUHNSS Aluminum Connecting Rod for Honda GX200 and Clones

3.313
silver
BUHNSS Aluminum Connecting Rod for Honda GX200 and Clones Cover
BUHNSS Billet Aluminum Connecting Rod (3.303") For Honda GX200,For Ghost 212,For Tillotson,For Chinese Clones 160/200 cc

The BUHNSS Connecting Rod is designed to fit popular small engines like the Honda GX200, Ghost 212, Tillotson, and Chinese 160/200 cc clones, giving you a reliable replacement part for these models. It does not fit Predator 212cc engines, so make sure your engine matches before purchasing. The rod comes in a standard length of 3.303 inches, ensuring proper fit and performance without the need for modifications. Installation is straightforward: you disassemble the rod, insert the bearings, and carefully torque the bolts to 150 inch-pounds for a secure and durable fit. This makes installation accessible and reliable for anyone performing engine maintenance or upgrades.

What We Like
Wide engine compatibility
Standard stock length
Includes bearings
Clear torque specifications
#TOP 8

ApplianPar Engine Connecting Rod for Hyundai Tucson Sonata for Kia Sorento Optima Sportage

23510-2GGA0
ApplianPar Engine Connecting Rod for Hyundai Tucson Sonata for Kia Sorento Optima Sportage Cover
ApplianPar Engine Connecting Rod for Hyundai Tucson Sonata for Hyundai Tucson 2014-2019, Sonata 2011-2016, Santa Fe Sport 2017-2018, for Kia Sorento 2014-2020, Optima 2011-2018, Sportage 2014-2019

The ApplianPar Connecting Rod is a high-quality engine component designed for various Hyundai and Kia models. With its application for Hyundai Tucson 2014-2019, Sonata 2011-2016, Santa Fe Sport 2017-2018, as well as Kia Sorento 2014-2020, Optima 2011-2018, and Sportage 2014-2019, this connecting rod offers compatibility and versatility. Its sturdy construction ensures durability and efficient performance, providing a reliable connection between the engine's piston and crankshaft. This component plays a crucial role in the engine's operation, contributing to smooth and efficient power delivery. By investing in the ApplianPar Connecting Rod, you can expect improved engine performance, increased longevity, and enhanced overall driving experience.

What We Like
High-quality
Compatible with various models
Durable construction
#TOP 9

ARC Racing 6256 Billet Connecting Rod for HF Predator

6256
ARC Racing 6256 Billet Connecting Rod for HF Predator Cover
ARC Racing 6256 Billet Rod, Fits HF Predator +.020 3.328 X 1.191 X .709

The ARC Racing Billet Rod is a high-quality connecting rod made in the USA, designed specifically for the Predator 212cc engine. This rod offers a +.020" extended length, which helps reduce the depth that the piston sits inside the cylinder, improving engine performance when using stock crankshafts and pistons. It fits both Hemi and Non-Hemi versions, giving you flexibility if you have either type of engine. With precise dimensions, including a 3.328" center-to-center length, this rod ensures a proper fit and reliable operation for your engine upgrade or repair needs.

What We Like
Made in USA quality
Fits Hemi and Non-Hemi engines
.020" extended length
Compatible with stock crankshaft
#TOP 10

BUHNSS Connecting Rod for Predator 212cc Engine

(3.328"+.020)
silver
3.328
BUHNSS Connecting Rod for Predator 212cc Engine Cover
BUHNSS Billet Aluminum Connecting Rod (3.328"+.020) For Predator 212cc Engine Go Kart Cart

BUHNSS Connecting Rod for Predator 212cc Engine is a high-quality connecting rod designed specifically for your go-kart. This rod, measuring 3.328 inches, comes with a precise fit for easy installation. With a recommended rod bolt torque of 150 Inch/lbs, you can ensure secure fastening without the risk of bolt damage. Remember to tighten the bolt three times during installation to avoid any issues. This connecting rod from BUHNSS offers durability and reliability, ensuring optimal performance for your engine.

What We Like
Precise Fit
Secure Fastening
Durable Material
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you drive with a broken engine rod?

No, it is not safe to drive with a broken engine rod. Continuing to drive with a bad connecting rod can lead to catastrophic damage to the engine.

2. Can you replace just the rod on an engine?

Replacing a connecting rod requires removing the piston from the engine, which can only be done by removing the cylinder head. This process is time-consuming and labor-intensive, typically taking around 18 hours to replace even one rod.

3. What are the 2 types of connecting rods?

There are two main types of connecting rods: I-beam and H-beam. Stock engines usually come with I-beam connecting rods, which can handle moderate performance. However, for higher horsepower and RPM levels, aftermarket H-beam connecting rods are recommended.

4. What causes connecting rod failure?

Connecting rod failure can be caused by various factors, including high engine speeds leading to tensile failure, impact force from piston-valve collisions, rod bearing failure due to lubrication issues, or incorrect installation of the connecting rod.

Editor's Notes

During our engine connecting rod connecting rod research, we found 24 engine connecting rod connecting rod products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,430 customer reviews through our big data system to write the engine connecting rod connecting rods list. We found that most customers choose engine connecting rod connecting rods with an average price of $81.73.

The engine connecting rod connecting rods are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of engine connecting rod connecting rods, including Allstar Performance, Lil Red Barn, BUHNSS, MOTO1988, ApplianPar. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.