SBD recommends the use of a stretch gauge for installation of rod bolts, this is the only true accurate way of installing the bolts to ensure they are correctly fitted. Although the cost of the stretch gauge may seem expensive, you would need to have a torque wrench of extremely high quality, which is annually calibrated (even if not used) & this would cost considerably more than buying a stretch gauge and still does not ensure that the desired stretch is actually reached.

ARP have changed the specification of their Fastener Assembly lubricant & in most cases a completely different torque setting is required to ensure the correct stretch is achieved, if the wrong torque settings are used, damage will be caused to the fasteners (rod bolts) & engine failure will occur.

If your rods are already assembled with lubricant of an unknown spec, then the fasteners & rods must be thoroughly cleaned & new assembly lube used. Our instructions are only for our range of con-rods & rods bolts when using the specified assembly lube.