if i got a 11:1 stock bore piston, is it absolutely nessesary to get a new connecting rod? whats wrong with the stock? or is it just its weak with a bore? thanks for any replies----Rider1169

 

No, it's not necessary to upgrade the rod if all you are doing is adding a couple more points of compression. If you were going with cams, portwork, carbs, etc. and creating a ton more power than the stock rod was designed for, an aftermarket rod would be a good idea. Put the piston in 'er and go have fun!!

 

well, i have the stage one camshaft, full pipe, filter, and then this would be all i am going to do was a cheap weisco piston 11:1 stock bore, and then later on upgrade to a 686, new rod, new carbs, all that. but for now with just those mods and an 11:1 the stock rod will be just fine? thanks again---Rider1169

 

You should be fine. Just make SHURE the cylinder is honed correctly.

 

Check the wear on the wrist pin and rod before putting the new piston on. They usually wear on the right side of the rod and on the wrist pin. You could also measure the rod for out of round to be sure.