Anybody remember any con rod failures?

[smurfbus]

I was told stock rods are good for 600hp but the rs4 ssp does not list rods being better than in S4.

I know of atleast 5 S4s that had holes in the block from snapped con rods but I dont remember any failures with RS4s. What was the cyl5 problems someone mentioned over AW some time ago?

The reason I ask is because I bought an rs4 block and I might upgrade the rods while the block is on the bench.

TIA

[simple1]

Not ever heard of conrod failure, although Phil T's let go in some style........ More common problem was turbo parts being ingested by the engine..........

[smurfbus]

how about that cyl5 problem?

I already have rs4/6 hybrids with exhaust mods so they should be fine. I also have JE pistons in the rs4 block but stock rods. I did order new SPM rods though so I'll probably use them in that block too.

How should the new rods and pistons be balanced if any? with the crank, fw and clutch or just weight balanced between cylinders. I haven't heard anyone balancing these engines but what do I know.

[simple1]

i am sure Andiroo could advise you, he went mad with Noggy Babe and had done as much as was possible with IIRC AMD's input.

[colemanmark]

Neary all the RS4 engines i have seen that have let go have had bent or snapped rods. The RS4 rods are different to the S4 ones and unique to the RS4. I would replace the rods if going for bid power.

If you are going to replace the rods then balancing is essential.

Mark

[smurfbus]

plus the JE-pistons are a lot lighter than stock too, so if its not balanced already I need to do it anyway.

[smurfbus]

The RS4 rods are different to the S4 ones and unique to the RS4.
Mark

Yes they are different but can you use RS4 rods in S4? I mean all the aftermarket rod are for VAG V6 engines. I know that the RS4 SSP says RS4 rods upper hole diameter is bigger, but the con rod upper bushings seems to be the same part # (ETKA) in both S4 and RS4, so that would indicate same size piston pin and hopefully RS4 rods usability in S4?