Connecting Rod Install

Connecting Rod Installation Tips

Ready to install connecting rods into your aircooled Beetle or dune buggy project? Here are some helpful tips from the experts.

Tools required:

Torque Wrench

Socket (to fit your bolt/nut)

Engine Oil

Step 1 - Clean your work surface, connecting rod, bearings, and hardware.

Step 2 - Snap bearing into rod using tabs to align. Lubricate surface of bearing after installation into rod.

Step 3 - Install matching rod and cap onto crankshaft. Point identifier tab or forging mark towards top of engine. Install hardware and oil threads.

Step 4 - Torque both bolts/nuts in steps (15 - 20 - 25 - Final) to your supplied hardware’s specified torque. Verify rod easily falls/rotates between each step.

OEM VW spec for M9-1.0 connecting rod bolts is 22-25 ft-lbs.

Aftermarket spec (DBW, Empi, etc) for rod bolts is 30 ft lbs.

ARP 2000 5/16 inch spec is often 26 ft-lbs.

ARP 2000 3/8 inch spec is often 48 ft-lbs.

**Always refer to your specific rod/hardware torque where applicable.

Shop connecting rods for your aircooled VW project here.

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