Long time lurker, first time poster. I got an old 292 block a month ago, and Santucci's bible a day later.

After reading posts on this forum, seems there are many options for performance 292 pistons but few for better steel rods. I may have found one.

Please consider the connecting rods from the S&S Cycles X-Wedge engine. It's a "Harley like" engine but unlike Harley's, it uses a 2 piece forged I-beam rod design. I asked about the dimensions, and they are:
Length - 7.400"
Big End Bore - 2.3249"
Rod Bearing Journal - 2.200"
Small End Bore - 0.927"
Big End Width - 1.058"
Small End Width - 1.060"
Rod Bolts - 7/16" custom
Uses Big Block Chevy rod bearings

Regarding the Big End Bore. Is it possible to hone the X-Wedge rod bearing to fit the 292 bearing inside? or are very thick big block rod bearings available to go from 2.3249 down to 2.100"?

Regarding the Big End Width. Is this similar enough to the 292?

If my math is correct, a piston with a 1.385" compression height would reach the stock block deck height. This is reasonable from what I've seen available. The longer rod would reduce maximum rod angle by about 3 degree's (about 10%). Better geometry.

I'm concerned about cam clearance with the wider rod. I don't know how wide it is. How wide can you go before you have clearance issues?


Oh yeah, they also have a 2 piece "Victory Rod" for their big bore Victory kits. It's dimensions are: (I converted from metric to english)
Length - 6.9009
Big End Bore - 2.317
Rod Bearing Journal - ???
Small End Bore - 0.942
Big End Width - 0.801
Small End Width - 0.886
Rod Bolts - M9 x 1.0 (OK, this is still metric)

This rod, while interesting, seemed less desirable, but I'll let you guys make that decision.

OK guys... I know nothing. Is this a possible rod or am I missing something obvious? Thanks!