Connecting rods and parts

Connecting rods are one of the most important engine components, responsible for transferring the motion of the pistons to the crankshaft. Their durability and precision of manufacture directly impact the efficiency, performance, and lifespan of the engine. At Global Parts, you'll find a wide selection of used car parts. , including connecting rods and parts for popular brands such as BMW , Audi , Mercedes , Volkswagen , Mini and others.

What are the functions of connecting rods and their parts?

Connecting rods and their components play a crucial role in engine operation. Together, they are responsible for:

• Energy Transfer – The connecting rod connects the piston to the crankshaft, converting the linear motion of the piston into the rotary motion of the shaft.
• Stabilization of engine operation – Ensures even and smooth movement of all cylinders.
• Strength in extreme conditions – Connecting rods must withstand the enormous forces and temperatures generated during combustion of the fuel-air mixture. The key components of connecting rods are:
• Connecting rod connector – The central element connecting the piston to the crankshaft.
• Connecting rod bearings – Ensure smooth movement of the connecting rod and minimize friction.
• Fastening bolts and nuts – They are responsible for the solid connection of the connecting rod to the crankshaft. Automotive connecting rods are made of forged or cast steel alloy, often with a friction-reducing coating. Typical lengths for 4-cylinder engines are 135–150 mm, and each connecting rod weighs approximately 1.2–1.5 kg. In diesel engines, such as the BMW E46 320d, connecting rods must withstand forces of 40 to 60 kN at maximum combustion pressure, and the permissible bending tolerance is 0.03 mm.

Why is it worth taking care of connecting rods and their parts?

Faulty or damaged connecting rods and parts can lead to serious engine failures such as:

• Connecting rod breakage – This can cause damage to other key components such as the pistons or crankshaft.
• Excessive friction – Due to worn bearings or improper lubrication.
• Vibration and noise – Caused by loose or damaged connecting rod connections. At Global Parts, we offer original used connecting rods and parts that have undergone extensive quality testing, ensuring their reliability and durability.

Comparison of automotive connecting rod types

Connecting rods can be divided into classic steel, forged and cast.

• Forged steel : strength up to 800 MPa, minimal deformation, recommended for sports petrol engines.
• Cast steel : strength 500–600 MPa, economical, used in diesel and standard petrol engines. When comparing them in terms of durability and cost, forged ones are more expensive but offer higher resistance to material fatigue, which is crucial in high-torque units.

How to choose the right connecting rods and parts?

When selecting connecting rods and parts, there are several key aspects to consider:

• Vehicle-specific fit – Every engine has its own unique design requirements. At Global Parts, you'll find connecting rods and components tailored to BMW , Audi , Mercedes , Volkswagen , Mini, and more.
• Technical condition – Check that the connecting rods are free from wear, cracks or deformation.
• Comprehensive kit – Choose kits that include bearings, mounting bolts and other necessary parts to avoid additional costs.

Example table of connecting rods and basic parameters

Vehicle model	Connecting rod type	Length	Material	Average weight
BMW E46 320d	Forged steel	144 mm	Steel	1.3 kg
Audi A4 2.0 TDI	Cast steel	142 mm	Steel	1.25 kg
Mercedes C200	Forged steel	150 mm	Steel	1.4 kg

Why choose used connecting rods and parts?

Used car parts , such as connecting rods and their components, are an economical solution that allows you to save money while maintaining high quality. By choosing used connecting rods and parts, you gain:

• Lower costs – Used components are much cheaper than new ones, but offer equally high quality.
• Ecology – Recycling car parts supports environmental protection and reduces waste.
• A wide range of products – In our store you will find connecting rods and parts for the most popular car brands. Connecting rods are compatible with the pistons and crankshafts of a given engine, ensuring correct pressure and rotational parameters. In the case of the BMW E46, connecting rods with a main bearing bore diameter of 50 mm are used, while in the 320d diesel engine they can withstand torque up to 350 Nm.

How to take care of connecting rods and their parts?

To ensure that connecting rods and their parts function reliably for years, it is worth following a few rules:

• Change your engine oil and filters regularly to ensure proper lubrication.
• Check the condition of the connecting rod bearings to prevent excessive friction.
• Avoid overloading the engine, which can accelerate wear of the connecting rods and their components. If you need a replacement, you'll find the right used car parts at Global Parts that will restore your engine to full efficiency.

Connecting rod inspection procedure

The connecting rod evaluation procedure includes:

1. Length and straightness measurement (tolerance ±0.02 mm).
2. Checking the bearing diameter and clearance (0.02–0.05 mm for petrol engines, 0.03–0.06 mm for diesel engines).
3. Control of cracks and micro-cracks using ultrasonic testing .
4. Verification of compatibility with the piston and crankshaft of a given model.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about connecting rods and parts

Question	Answer
What is an automotive connecting rod?	A connecting rod is a component that connects the piston to the crankshaft, converting the linear motion of the piston into the rotary motion of the shaft.
What are connecting rod bearings?	Connecting rod bearings are bearing components inside the connecting rod that allow smooth movement around the crankshaft and minimize friction.
What does matching the connecting rod to the engine mean?	Fitment includes length, bore diameter, material and compatibility with the pistons and crankshaft of the vehicle model.
How to recognize connecting rod wear?	Signs of wear include excessive play in the bearings, vibration, noise and a decrease in engine performance.
Are the connecting rods used safe to use?	Yes, if they are checked for technical condition and fit to the engine, e.g. BMW E46 connecting rods and parts.
How often should you change the oil when using used connecting rods?	It is recommended to replace them every 10,000–15,000 km to ensure proper lubrication and reduce friction in the bearings.
Are all connecting rod parts compatible between models?	No – fit depends on bearing diameter, connecting rod length, and engine type. Use parts that are compatible with your vehicle model.

Summary: Connecting Rods and Parts at Global Parts

Connecting rods and their components are the foundation of every engine's performance and durability. Maintaining their technical condition ensures the reliability and smooth operation of the drive unit. The Global Parts automotive store invites you to browse our extensive selection of genuine used car parts . Whether you're looking for car parts for BMW , Audi , Volkswagen , Mercedes, Mini , or others, you'll find them at competitive prices. We strive to ensure every customer finds the right parts for their car, and if you have any questions or concerns about selecting the right components, we're happy to help! Please contact us – we're here to help! For more information and interesting facts, visit our automotive blog .