8mm rod bolts

[tanny]

I have a 71 240 engine that I am rebuilding(re-ring) and am not thrilled with investing another $80 for 8mm arp rod bolts. Have not seen any source for the stock bolts. Obviously putting in new rod bolts would be the best choice, but I was wondering if anyone has reused the 8mm rod bolts and if they had good or bad luck with them(not interested in heresay or regurgitated conventional wisdom. Actual non-racing experience only). Thanks, Victor.

[Ed]

Victor,

I've reused rod bolts in my motorcycle engine with no problems. I'm sure I'll get scolded for doing it. I do know that the best insurance for a rebuild is new bolts. Spend the money and play it safe.

[Phred]

Victor,

I havn't bought stock 8mm rod bolts for years, but a call to your local Nissan dealer will reveal availability and price. Don't be surprised if they cost the same or more than ARP.

Also, you can't go into an engine rebuild and expect to do even a halfassed job without spending some hard earned money.

You wouldn't believe the number of people I've built engines for who don't have enough money to do it right the first time, but always have the money to do it twice.

Phred

[tanny]

I do appreciate the advice, but as I requested, I would like to know someone's actual!, personal!, non-racing experience with reusing these 8mm bolts. Thanks, Victor.

[jurven240z]

Yes, you can reused the 8mm bolts. I did it in 94 on my 40 over 5/70 L24. I had to buy one rod to replace two of them. Paid $20.00 for a new rod and used the bolts. Take a good look at them check for stretching. My L24 was running fine 6 months ago when I took it out for an L28e/su swap. The head went out before the old bolts. I just visited a website that sold the rod cheap. Will search for it if you are still looking for a few bolt.

Pearl Blue

5/70

L28e/Su

[tanny]

Thanks for the response. I did install the old bolts, so we'll see if I need a 280 engine in a little bit. The machinist I used for the rebuild machine work builds race engines and has had good success with Z race engines. He claims it is not a problem reusing the old bolts. Take my chances.