Best Performance Connecting Rod Bolts of 2026

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

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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 Flexplate Bolt Kit for Dodge 5.9L Diesel Cover #TOP 1
ARP Flexplate Bolt Kit for Dodge 5.9L Diesel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ARP 6110515 Stainless Steel Bolts Cover #TOP 2
ARP 6110515 Stainless Steel Bolts
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Moroso 38760 Flexplate Bolts Pack of 6 Cover #TOP 3
Moroso 38760 Flexplate Bolts Pack of 6
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Performance Connecting Rod Bolts

#TOP 1

ARP Flexplate Bolt Kit for Dodge 5.9L Diesel

ARP
147-2901
Black
M12x1.25
ARP Flexplate Bolt Kit for Dodge 5.9L Diesel Cover
ARP 147-2901 Flexplate Bolt Kit for Dodge 5.9L Diesel

The ARP Dodge Flexplate Bolts are designed specifically for Dodge 5.9L Cummins Diesel engines, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle. This bolt kit comes with the exact part number 147-2901, making it easy to identify and order the right product for your needs. Weighing just over half a pound, the kit is lightweight and easy to handle during installation. These bolts belong to ARP's performance category, providing you with reliable and durable components that enhance the strength of your engine's flexplate connection. Using this kit means you get high-quality bolts made for your diesel engine, giving you peace of mind and improved performance.

What We Like
Vehicle-specific fit
Lightweight package
High-quality brand
Performance-grade bolts
#TOP 2 Best Car Bolt

ARP 6110515 Stainless Steel Bolts

ARP
611-0515
Silver
1/4-20
ARP 6110515 Stainless Steel Bolts Cover
ARP 6110515 Stainless Steel 1/4-20 12-Point Bolts - Pack of 5

The ARP Stainless Steel Bolts are designed for strength and durability, making them a great choice for your automotive needs. With a robust rating of 170,000 PSI, these bolts outperform standard Grade 8 hardware, ensuring reliable performance. The polished Stainless 300 steel construction means you won't have to worry about rust or corrosion, adding to their longevity. Their compact 12-point head design allows for better wrenching, making installation easier and more efficient. Each pack contains five bolts, providing you with enough quantity for your projects.

What We Like
High strength rating
Rust and corrosion resistant
Compact 12-point design
Convenient 5-pack
#TOP 3

Moroso 38760 Flexplate Bolts Pack of 6

38760
Black
7/16-20
Moroso 38760 Flexplate Bolts Pack of 6 Cover
Moroso 38760 Flexplate Bolts - Pack of 6

The Moroso Flexplate Bolts come in a convenient pack of six, making it easy for you to replace or upgrade your vehicle's flexplate hardware all at once. These bolts are compact, with package dimensions measuring about 7.9 cm by 8.9 cm by 3.8 cm, ensuring they’re easy to store or transport. Weighing just under half a pound, they won’t add unnecessary bulk to your toolkit. Made in the United States, these bolts offer reliable quality and performance you can trust for your automotive needs.

What We Like
Pack of 6 bolts
Compact package size
Lightweight design
Made in the USA
#TOP 4

ARP 2542801 Bolt Kit for Ford Modular Engines

ARP
2542801
Black
ARP 2542801 Bolt Kit for Ford Modular Engines Cover
ARP 2542801 Bolt Kit

This bolt kit is designed specifically for Ford Modular engines and includes ARP flywheel bolts. Weighing only 0.249 kilograms, it is easy to install and fits perfectly with your vehicle. Categorized as car bolts, this kit is a must-have for those who want to maintain their engine's performance.

What We Like
Designed specifically for Ford Modular engines
Included ARP flywheel bolts
Easy to install
#TOP 5

ARP Pressure Plate Bolt Kit for Ford Modular

ARP
156-2201
Black
1/2-20 UNC
ARP Pressure Plate Bolt Kit for Ford Modular Cover
ARP 156-2201 Pressure Plate Bolt Kit for Ford Modular Motor

The ARP Pressure Plate Bolts offer a compact and lightweight solution, measuring just over 14 cm in length and weighing only 0.3 lbs, making it easy to handle and install. Designed in the United States, these bolts ensure quality you can trust for your Ford Modular motor. The slim packaging also means less storage space is needed, providing convenience during shipping and storage. If you want reliable, durable bolts that fit perfectly, this ARP kit is a great choice to upgrade your car’s pressure plate assembly.

What We Like
Compact size
Lightweight design
Made in the USA
Easy to store
#TOP 6

ARP Rod Bolt Kit for Big Block Chevy 454-502

ARP
135-6021
Black
ARP Rod Bolt Kit for Big Block Chevy 454-502 Cover
ARP 135-6021 Rod Bolt Kit for Big Block Chevy 454-502 - 2 Piece

The ARP Rod Bolt Kit is designed specifically for Big Block Chevy 454-502 engines, offering a reliable solution for your engine assembly needs. This kit comes in a compact package, making it easy to store and handle. Proudly made in the USA, it assures you of high-quality craftsmanship and durability. With part number ARP-135-6021, you can easily identify and order the correct kit for your vehicle. Whether you're rebuilding or upgrading your engine, this connecting rod bolt kit provides the essential components to ensure a secure fit and long-lasting performance.

What We Like
Compact packaging
Made in USA quality
Engine-specific design
Easy identification with part number
#TOP 7

ARP Flexplate Bolt Kit for Ford 4.6/5.4L

ARP
254-2901
Black
ARP Flexplate Bolt Kit for Ford 4.6/5.4L Cover
ARP 254-2901 Flexplate Bolt Kit for Ford 4.6/5.4L

The ARP Flexplate Bolt Kit is specifically designed for Ford 4.6/5.4L engines. With its vehicle-specific fit, this bolt kit ensures a secure and reliable installation. Weighing just 0.400 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to handle. The ARP Flexplate Bolt Kit is made by the reputable brand ARP, known for producing high-quality automotive parts. These bolts are essential for attaching the flexplate to the crankshaft, providing a strong connection that is crucial for the proper functioning of the engine. By using this bolt kit, you can have peace of mind knowing that your flexplate is securely fastened, preventing any potential damage or issues. Upgrade your Ford engine with the ARP Flexplate Bolt Kit and enjoy a worry-free driving experience.

What We Like
Vehicle-specific fit
Lightweight and easy to handle
High-quality brand
#TOP 8

ARP 6130750 Stainless Steel 3/8-16 Bolts

ARP
613-0750
Silver
3/8-16
ARP 6130750 Stainless Steel 3/8-16 Bolts Cover
ARP 6130750 Stainless Steel 3/8-16 12-Point Bolts - Pack of 5

The ARP Stainless Steel Bolts offer a reliable diameter of 3/8" with a common thread pitch of 16, making them compatible with many standard applications. With an under head length of 0.750 inches, these bolts provide a secure fit for your projects. Their impressive strength rating of 170,000 PSI means they are much tougher than typical Grade 8 bolts, giving you confidence in their durability. Crafted from polished Stainless 300 steel, these bolts resist rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance even in harsh conditions. The compact 12-point head design allows for easy wrenching, making installation and removal more convenient for you.

What We Like
High strength rating
Rust and corrosion resistant
Standard 3/8" diameter
Compact 12-point heads
#TOP 9

ARP Flywheel Bolt Kit for Toyota 1.8L 2ZZGE

ARP
103-2802
Black
3/8 inch
ARP Flywheel Bolt Kit for Toyota 1.8L 2ZZGE Cover
ARP Flywheel Bolt Kit Toyota 1.8L 2ZZGE 4-Cylinder

The ARP Toyota Flywheel Bolts are designed specifically for the 1.8L 2ZZGE 4-cylinder engine, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle. These bolts help secure the flywheel firmly, which is essential for smooth engine operation and reliable performance. Using this bolt kit can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your flywheel is properly fastened to prevent any mechanical issues. As a product from ARP, a trusted brand in automotive parts, you can expect durability and quality that supports the longevity of your engine’s components.

What We Like
Engine-specific fit
Secure flywheel attachment
Durable construction
Trusted ARP brand
#TOP 10

ARP 1346002 Connecting Rod Bolt Kit

ARP
134-6002
ARP 1346002 Connecting Rod Bolt Kit Cover
ARP 1346002 High Performance Connecting Rod Bolt Kit, For Select Chevrolet Small Block Applications

The ARP Connecting Rod Bolts are essential for securing your engine’s rotating parts, ensuring everything runs smoothly. By upgrading from standard bolts, you reduce the risk of serious engine damage caused by weak fasteners. These bolts are made from a special heat-treated 8740 alloy chrome moly steel, giving you a durable and reliable connection. With a strength rating around 200,000 psi, they are much tougher than typical OEM bolts or even Grade 8 hardware. This means you get peace of mind knowing your engine’s critical components are held together with top-quality fasteners designed for high performance and longevity.

What We Like
High strength material
Heat-treated alloy steel
Prevents engine failure
Complete bolt set
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 3,312 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 $43.56.

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, Moroso. 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.