bottom end · FF-0158

Are stock Ford Flathead connecting rods strong enough for a supercharged engine?

Steve says yes. He calls the 1949 to 1953 insert-bearing Ford rods super strong forgings and would use them in just about anything, including a supercharged engine at 5 to 7 pounds of boost, with the beams polished a little. SCAT and Eagle make aftermarket rods, and a new set can make sense once the cost of reconditioning old rods is counted.

Expert

Steve Coppock

Evidence

expert attributed

Component

connecting rods

Applicable scope

1949-1953 Ford Flathead V8 insert-bearing connecting rods