I have a set of new 5.0 CE-A connecting rods and have a question on them.
The boss 302 rod is based on the 289 HO rod C3AE with 3/8" bolts, also the rod is longer (5.155).
Since I have new rods CE (5.09), would they stronger then longer C3AE (5.155) also, both fitted with ARP 3/8" bolts?
Are the 289 rods extra beefy?

 

Are the rod weights identical? Are the pistons being used intended for use with the 5.155 rod length? If used with the shorter, what will you do about the added combustion chamber volume? The chamber volume difference would be about 13 cc (on a 4-inch bore). 13 out of 60 or 70 or so would be about a 20% difference, not a good thing.

I always regarded my 289 Hi-Po rods as being adequate.

 

eggsmith, hope this helps.
When the small-block Ford evolved to a 4.00-inch bore, increases in displacement from then on
were found with increases in stroke. The 302ci small-block achieved its displacement via revised
pistons, rods and crank. All three are different and are not interchangeable with the 221, 260 and
289. The 351W engine meets its displacement objective by increasing the block deck height and
corresponding stroke. The Boss 302 engine differs from the standard 302 significantly in that it
utilizes a forged steel crankshaft, 289 High Performance style connecting rods and forged pistons.
The 289 High Performance rod and Boss 302 rod interchange without any modifications because
they are basically the same rod. The Boss 302 rod is the same basic C3AE rod forging as the 289.
However, rod bolts are spot-faced 3/8-inch bolts. There is also an available Trans-Am rod with
cap-screw bolts for the Boss 302 engine.

 

Thanks,
I am taking my new C8OE-A rods to machine shop to have recondition with 3/8" bolts.
fluxed , peened, and 3/8" bolts...
Thanks again,
Ed

 

eggsmith, you hit the nail right on the head. Because the 302 has longer stroke dimensions than the 221/260/289, it also has a different C8OE rod forging. This shorter rod forging is also common to 5.0L High Output engines. Aside from subtle changes to this rod at the large end (thicker rod cap) to make it stronger for high-performance use, it is virtually the same rod. Always opt for a matched set of rods for balance and consistency. One basic modification you should make to both the C3AE and C8OE rods is an upgrade to 3/8-inch ARP bolts for improved durability. Make sure you have plenty of material around these bolts before making this modification. Closely inspect each rod before pressing it into use.