Quote Originally Posted by BigRedTrucker
What is the highest compression you can go on stock rods? Just curious. If you *must* know, I'm thinking turning a 305 (cuz I got it) into an ethanol only (or e85) burner. I've got it in my truck and just need to get the pennies together to build the 355. This isn't a question of whether e-85 is a good idea or not, this is just for a possible low buck project to see if I can do it or not. I'll probably ending up making my own alcohol fuel for it. I'm thinking 12-13:1 compression and getting what else I need with ignition timing. Would cast iron heads be ok or would I have to coat them. What carbs would be good to use? I see edelbrock is making a new e-85 carb but with the budget in mind i may hit the swap meet for a used carb that could work. Thanks guys!
I would not even fart around with stock rods.
By the time you re-size the big hole,small hole,polish,shoot-peen-yes-you have to after you polish the beams,install ARP bolts etc.
I wold look into a set of the Scat I-beams.
We have run these on 1/2 mile stock car engines that turn 7,000 rpm's with zero failures.
If you look you should be able to buy these for less than $200.
Oh,if you are making your own alcohol the ATF might come knocking on your door.
One other thing to remember alcohol is very dry and you must always run upper-end cylinder lube with it.
Also you need to run your valve guides looser at least on the exhaust side.