Best Performance Connecting Rod Bolts of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Performance connecting rod bolts are an essential component for high-performance engines. These bolts are designed to withstand the increased stress and load that high-performance engines generate. They are made from high-strength materials such as chrome-moly steel and are heat-treated to provide maximum durability and strength. Performance connecting rod bolts offer improved clamping force and provide a secure connection between the connecting rods and the crankshaft. These bolts are a must-have for racing engines and other high-performance applications, ensuring that the engine can withstand the demands of intense driving conditions.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit Cover #TOP 1
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ARP Connecting Rod Bolts Cover #TOP 2
ARP Connecting Rod Bolts
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit Cover #TOP 3
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Performance Connecting Rod Bolts

#TOP 1

ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

ARP
145-6002
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit Cover
ARP 1456002 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

The ARP 1456002 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit is made in the USA and comes with a connecting rod bolt kit that has a part number of 1456002. The package dimensions are 10.16 H x 13.97 L x 26.416 W (centimeters). This product falls under the category of car bolts.

What We Like
Made in the USA
High performance connecting rod bolt kit
Part number: 1456002
#TOP 2

ARP Connecting Rod Bolts

ARP
107-6002
ARP Connecting Rod Bolts Cover
ARP 1076002 Hi-Performance Connecting Rod Bolts

ARP Bolts are high-performance connecting rod bolts designed for 4G63 engines. With dimensions of 1.016 H x 23.876 L x 13.716 W (centimeters) and a weight of 0.4 pounds, these bolts are easy to handle and install. The OEM equivalent part number is 107-6002, ensuring compatibility. These bolts from ARP are ideal for securely fastening connecting rods in your vehicle, providing durability and reliability. Upgrade to ARP Bolts for a reliable and high-performance engine experience.

What We Like
High-performance
Lightweight
Compatible with 4G63 engines
#TOP 3

ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

ARP
202-6003
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit Cover
ARP 2026003 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit, For Select Nissan Applications

Upgrade your engine's connecting rod bolts with the ARP Rod Bolt Kit. These bolts are crucial for your engine's rotating assembly. By replacing weaker OEM fasteners, you can prevent potential engine disasters. Crafted from premium 8740 alloy chrome moly steel, these bolts are exceptionally strong, rated at 200,000 psi. This kit includes all the bolts needed to enhance your engine's connecting rods. Strengthen your engine's core components with the ARP Rod Bolt Kit.

What We Like
High strength
Premium steel
Complete set
#TOP 4

ARP 206-6008 Rod Bolt Kit

ARP
206-6008
ARP 206-6008 Rod Bolt Kit Cover
ARP 206-6008 Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

The ARP Rod Bolt Kit is designed specifically for performance applications, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle. With package dimensions of approximately 1.8 cm in height, 24.4 cm in length, and 14.5 cm in width, it is compact and easy to store. Weighing just 0.4 pounds, this kit is lightweight, making installation straightforward without added hassle. Proudly made in the United States, you can trust the quality and craftsmanship that goes into each bolt. This kit not only enhances your engine's performance but also provides peace of mind knowing you're using reliable components.

What We Like
Vehicle-specific fit
Lightweight design
Compact packaging
High-quality American manufacturing
#TOP 5

ARP 1.8L Duratech Rod Bolt Kit

ARP
251-6202
ARP 1.8L Duratech Rod Bolt Kit Cover
ARP (251-6202) Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

The ARP Rod Bolt Kit is designed specifically for the Ford 1.8L Duratech engine, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle. With compact package dimensions, it’s easy to store and handle, making your installation process smoother. Weighing only 0.275 kilograms, it won’t add unnecessary bulk to your toolbox. This kit is also the OEM equivalent to part number 251-6202, providing assurance of quality and compatibility. By using this kit, you can enhance the reliability of your engine assembly and enjoy peace of mind knowing you have durable components in place.

What We Like
Engine-specific design
Compact and lightweight
OEM equivalent quality
Enhances engine reliability
#TOP 6

ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

ARP
150-6004
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit Cover
ARP 1506004 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

Upgrade your engine with the ARP Connecting Rod Bolts. These bolts are crucial for your engine's performance, being stronger than standard hardware. By using these premium grade 8740 alloy chrome moly steel bolts rated at 200,000 psi, you can prevent engine failure. This complete set ensures all your connecting rods are secured. Enhance your engine's reliability and power with the ARP Connecting Rod Bolts.

What We Like
Stronger than OEM
Prevents engine failure
Complete set included
#TOP 7

ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolts 1546022

ARP
154-6022
Black
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolts 1546022 Cover
ARP 1546022 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolts, 2 Pieces, For Select Ford Small Block Applications

ARP Rod Bolts are crucial fasteners for your engine's rotating assembly. By upgrading to these premium 8740 alloy chrome moly steel bolts rated at 200,000 psi, you can prevent catastrophic engine failure. These bolts are considerably stronger than OEM ones, ensuring enhanced durability. With two pieces included, you have enough for one connecting rod, offering you peace of mind and reliability for your engine.

What We Like
Premium Alloy Steel
200,000 psi rating
Enhanced Durability
#TOP 8

ARP Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

ARP
144-6001
ARP Connecting Rod Bolt Kit Cover
ARP 1446001 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

ARP Rod Bolt Kit is a high-performance set of connecting rod bolts crucial for your engine's rotation. By upgrading from standard fasteners to these premium grade 8740 alloy chrome moly steel bolts, you can prevent potential engine disasters. With a strength rating of 200,000 psi, much higher than OEM bolts, these bolts provide added security and durability to your engine's connecting rods. The complete set ensures you have all the necessary bolts for a comprehensive upgrade.

What We Like
Durable 8740 alloy steel
Enhanced engine safety
Complete set for all rods
#TOP 9

ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

ARP
155-6002
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit Cover
ARP 1556002 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit, For Select Ford Big Block Applications

Upgrade your engine with the ARP Rod Bolt Kit. These connecting rod bolts are crucial for your engine's rotating assembly, helping prevent catastrophic failures. Crafted from premium grade 8740 alloy chrome moly steel, they offer strength rated at 200,000 psi, surpassing OEM standards. The complete set ensures all your connecting rods are securely fastened, enhancing engine reliability and performance.

What We Like
Premium grade steel
200,000 psi strength
Complete set included
#TOP 10

ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit for Mitsubishi

ARP
107-6001
silver
ARP High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit for Mitsubishi Cover
ARP 1076001 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit, For Select Mitsubishi Applications

Upgrade your engine with the ARP Connecting Rod Bolt Kit. These bolts are crucial for your engine's performance, preventing potential catastrophic failures. Crafted from premium 8740 alloy chrome moly steel, they are exceptionally strong, rated at 200,000 psi. This kit includes all the bolts needed to enhance your engine's connecting rods, ensuring durability and reliability. By replacing OEM fasteners with these high-performance bolts, you can boost your engine's overall efficiency and longevity.

What We Like
High-strength material
Prevents engine failure
Durable and reliable
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between L19 and ARP 2000 rod bolts?

L19 rod bolts are made from a very high strength material and can deliver a clamp load at 260,000 psi. They are primarily used in short track and drag racing applications where the clamping capability of ARP 2000 bolts is exceeded.

2. Are LS connecting rod bolts reusable?

On a GM LS engine, the cylinder head bolts are not reusable, as they are torque-to-yield (TTY) fasteners. The connecting rod bolts are also TTY but can be tightened up to three times for bearing checking. However, it is important to note that the balancer bolt is also a TTY fastener, while the intake manifold, rocker arm, and rear cover bolts can be reused.

3. What is the difference between 1st and 2nd design rod bolts?

The first design rod bolts have a single dimple/mark on the head and do not have a retaining sleeve on the shank. The second design rod bolts have two dimples/marks on the head and have a retaining sleeve on the shank.

4. Are ARP bolts stronger than Grade 8?

Yes, ARP bolts are stronger than Grade 8 bolts. ARP's Custom 450 alloy has a higher yield strength compared to Grade 8 bolts. While a typical Grade 5 bolt has a tensile strength of around 120,000 psi and a Grade 8 bolt is in the 150,000 psi range, ARP fasteners have even higher yield strengths.

5. What is the HP rating of ARP L19 rod bolts?

Eagle H-Beam rods with 7/16" ARP 8740 bolts are recommended for use up to 800hp. With 7/16" ARP 2000 bolts, the recommendation is up to 1300hp (V8). If using L19 bolts, the recommendation is up to 1500hp.

6. What is stronger H-beam or I-beam connecting rods?

Both H-beam and I-beam connecting rods can be strong, depending on factors like material, weight, and cross-section. However, all other variables being equal, H-beam rods are considered the strongest design.

7. Do longer connecting rods make more power?

Changing the length of the connecting rods with respect to the stroke of the crankshaft can have advantages in certain situations. It may allow the same number of cubic inches to deliver a little more power or a little longer ring life.

8. What happens if you reuse torque to yield bolts?

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts are designed to stretch during installation and should not be reused. Reusing TTY bolts compromises their integrity and can lead to failure due to the stress caused during the initial installation.

9. Does connecting rods increase horsepower?

Connecting rods play a role in handling engine power. Most stock connecting rods can handle up to 25 to 40 percent more horsepower than an unmodified engine was originally designed to produce. However, to handle higher horsepower levels, aftermarket connecting rods may be required.

10. How much horsepower can I-Beam rods handle?

Stock I-beam connecting rods in a V8 engine can handle upward of 400 horsepower and 6,500 rpm. Beyond those performance levels, aftermarket connecting rods should be considered.

Editor's Notes

During our performance connecting rod bolt research, we found 24 performance connecting rod bolt products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,755 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance connecting rod bolts list. We found that most customers choose performance connecting rod bolts with an average price of $76.71.

The performance connecting rod bolts are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance connecting rod bolts, including ARP and more. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 120 consumers with an average rating of 4.3.

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.