LLY: LLY with LBZ rods question

[dirtymax36]

i ended up trading my lb7 pistons for a set of LBZ rods. I have heard everywhere about balancing. I was wondering if i would need to re balance the motor if i went with stock lly pistons that are in it with lbz rods? Also, what if i had my pistons de lipped, would it then need re ballanced? i am running the mods in my signature and at some point will have 50 over sticks and a cp3 to fullfil that. I do not need carrillos i am just looking for a budget build. Also, if i pull the motor to put these rods in, what are some internal things i should do while im inside? Besides main studs and arp rod bolts. Thanks!

 

[hondarider552]

Main studs and rod bolts are not needed for stock bottom end rotating assembly.

Yes, you should rebalance... I think mine was like 200$..

 

[dirtymax36]

Would they be added insurance though or would it be a waste of money?

 

[LtEng5]

For $300, balancing a motor being built is pretty much a no brainer. can you run the rods and unmodified pistons without a balancing and be ok..?? YES.

Even if you are going to run the factory balancer again and the factory flywheel and Torque converter mounting plate...giving these to the balancer with the pistons,the rods, the piston rings and rod bearings...will make the engine run smoother and rev better.

If you are going to have coatings put on the top or sides of the pistons...Do that before giving them to the balancer.

 

[dirtymax36]

I did not realize balancing was that cheap, also did anyone go with a one piece flywheel? And would a socal damper be worth the money after balancing or be a waste? Thanks for all the quick replies!

 

[LtEng5]

Definitely rod bolts. Not a waste of money there. an ARP set will be the best way there.

 

[dirtymax36]

I don't think I could go wrong for 200

 

[03spoolindmax]

If you put main studs in you will need to line bore the block. Same goes for if you change to arp rod bolts. The new torque specs will distort the mains and rods. Then make them out of round.

 

[dirtymax36]

would main studs and arp rod bolts be better than stock ones if im just going to have around 750 horse?

 

[hondarider552]

I wouldn't bother. I've never seen a factory rod bolt break.

 

[Harbin_22]

I have an ATI damper for sale if you are trying to save money. And yes, get it balanced and at least get the crank and cam keyed. Few bucks verses valves hitting pistons will be worth it.

 

[Burn Down]

Balance yes.
Rod bolts no.
Main studs no.
Harbins balancer is dirt cheap so yes.
Piston coatings no.
Flexplate maybe a BD?
key everything
What's the mileage on your engine?

If I was doing a strict budget build...
Pistons delipped.
Rods used aftermarket, or save the cash and buy new.
Harbins balancer (cause its cheap other wise stock is fine)
Key everything
Balance.
Head studs.
Everything else f-it.
Pray it held together for awhile (which is what I would do on non budget build to... Maybe sacrifice a few chickens as well)

 

[sickdiesel]

on a stock build like that i wouldnt worry about rod bolts or Main studs IMO.

seen many many trucks over 1000 with regular main bolts.

 

[LWATSON]

I'm pretty sure Buck Spruill ran stock mains and may still? If he can do it anyone can. I do not know this for a fact but have heard the rumor.

 

[dirtymax36]

I will have to do some more looking around, just ordered my 45% overs today and looking for an lbz cp3 then lbz rods to complete it

 

[sickdiesel]

we have about 10 sets of LBZ rods in stock if i can help. as well as LBZ Cp3s.

 

[dirtymax36]

Pm sent!