Why DID Buick go to capscrew rods in '73

Discussion in 'Small Block Tech' started by Mark Demko, Jul 25, 2015.

  1. Mark Demko

    Mark Demko Well-Known Member

    Just thinking here, and here's my thoughts,
    Yes the capscrew design stronger, BUT I think Buick went to capscrew rods to afford more clearance to the cam lobes.
    Being the 350 in Buicks mind was never intended to be a super high performance engine, switching to capscrew rods in '73 (of all years to switch) seems goofy:eek:
    Anybody else have any theories or know for sure?
     
    Mark Demko, Jul 25, 2015
    #1
  2. wkillgs

    wkillgs Gold Level Contributor

    Cost?
    No need to press bolts in, just screw the caps on. Less time, less labor, less $$.
     
    wkillgs, Jul 25, 2015
    #2
  3. SteeveeDee

    SteeveeDee Orange Acres

    Agreed, probably cost. In those days, GM accounted for cost to the .1 cent level, which makes sense if you produce millions of cars. Those mils ($.001) add up.
     
    SteeveeDee, Jul 25, 2015
    #3
  4. alec296

    alec296 i need another buick

    I think they had rod problems also. Talked to an old Buick dealer mechanic once . claimed rod bolts came loose often Yeats ago
     
    alec296, Jul 25, 2015
    #4
  5. UNDERDOG350

    UNDERDOG350 350 Buick purestock racer

    Saved money not buying a nut.
     
    UNDERDOG350, Jul 26, 2015
    #5

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