TheHEMI.com

Hi guys,

Im in the process of collecting parts for a 6-71 blown DeSoto hemi project. The goal is 450-500HP.

Reworked steel crank, Ross forged pistons, mains and head studs along with O ringed heads.

My understanding is that a Pontiac H Beam rod @ 6.625" centre to centre can be substituted. These rods I believe need to be narrowed down .010" per side to allow them to fit and the pin end needs to be rehoned to suit the Desoto pin.

Has anyone used these or for that matter has anyone built a blown DeSoto and what did they learn, how did the engine perform? Any tech info and specs would be great!!

Thanx !!

The Pontiac rods can be used in 331 and 354 Chrysler.
The Pontiac rods are approximately .996 wide. The Desoto uses .938 wide rods. The Pontiac rods use a .980 pin. The Desoto uses .921 (or if using Ross pistons most likely a .927 pin)

So are you saying that the Poncho rods cant be used in a DeSoto 330?

Pin diameter wont be a problem and the rods can be milled for the required side clearance yes?

Rat

You can use the stock late Buick (400/430/455) rods, which are the right width (.928"), but .018" shorter at 6.607".