Cylinder Block Components (page 6 of 10)

ENGINE - V8

DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

12-2-7

Connecting Rods

The connecting rods are sintered type, one piece forged rods which feature a fracture-split at the big-end between the 
connecting rod and the bearing cap. The mating surface of the rod and bearing cap form a rough surface (interference 
fit) that eliminates the need for centering sleeves. Each matched rod and bearing cap pair is stamped with a pairing 
code.

All of the rods are of one weight class and conform to the double bearing classification, red or blue. One red and one 
blue bearing shell are fitted to each connecting rod. The red shell is fitted to the bearing cap.

Pistons
The pistons are of a short skirt design and “iron coated” for use with the Alusil block. Each piston has a flat crown 
surface with a front facing arrow for installation direction. The relevant cylinder bank number is engraved into the 
piston crown.

Each piston is fitted with two compression rings and an oil control ring. 

There are no thermal control strips in the pistons. The pistons are cooled with specific spray jets, mounted in the 
crankcase.

M12 7806