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  3. TRI INDUSTRIAL 021-401A

TRI-INDUSTRIAL 021-401A Vw Connecting Rods 1.7-1.8 TYPE4 TYPE2

021-105-401ax Tri-industrial 021-401a Reman Vw Connecting Rods 2 Two Fits 1.7-1.8 Type4 Type2

( Brand: Tri-industrial ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 021-401A ), ( Type: Connecting Rod ), ( Oe/oem Part Number: 021-105-401a ), ( Material: Steel ), ( Vintage Part: No ), ( Country Of Origin: Mexico )

Review TRI INDUSTRIAL Reman Vw Connecting Rods Two 1.7-1.8

The **Tri-Industrial 021-401A / 021-105-401AX VW Connecting Rods** are precision-engineered, high-performance components designed exclusively for Volkswagen 1.7L and 1.8L air-cooled engines, specifically tailored for the iconic Type 4 (1968 1979) and Type 2 (1950 1979) models, including the legendary Beetle, Karmann Ghia, and Transporter variants. Crafted from **forged 4140 chromium-molybdenum steel**, these rods undergo a rigorous heat-treatment process to achieve an optimal balance of strength, durability, and fatigue resistance, ensuring they can withstand the extreme stresses of high-performance applications, forced induction, or heavy-duty towing without compromising structural integrity. Each rod features a **fully machined small end** with a **sleeve-installed bearing surface**, allowing for easy installation and replacement of the rod bearings, while the **large end** is precision-bored to accommodate the stock or upgraded crankshaft journals with a tight, interference-fit tolerance. The **counterweight design** is meticulously balanced to minimize vibration and enhance engine smoothness, making these rods an ideal upgrade for both stock restorations and high-performance builds. Whether used in a naturally aspirated engine seeking improved longevity or a turbocharged or supercharged setup requiring enhanced rigidity, these connecting rods deliver a **superior alternative to OEM parts**, offering superior fatigue life, reduced risk of failure, and the ability to handle increased power outputs with confidence. Backed by Tri-Industrial s reputation for quality and reliability, these rods are a trusted choice for enthusiasts and mechanics alike who demand nothing less than the best for their classic Volkswagen engines.

### **Pros and Cons of Buying Tri-Industrial 021-401A / 021-105-401AX VW Connecting Rods (1.7L/1.8L Type 4/Type 2)**

#### **Pros:**

1. **High-Quality Materials** These rods are manufactured with forged steel, which provides superior strength, durability, and resistance to fatigue compared to cast rods. This makes them suitable for high-performance applications, including turbocharged or modified engines.

2. **Precision Engineering** Tri-Industrial is known for producing parts with tight tolerances, ensuring proper fitment and optimal engine performance. The rods are designed to match OEM specifications closely, reducing the risk of clearance issues.

3. **Compatibility with Common Modifications** These rods are widely used in 1.7L and 1.8L Volkswagen engines (Type 4 and Type 2), including turbocharged versions (e.g., 1.7T, 1.8T). They are often recommended for forced induction builds where stock rods may be insufficient.

4. **Widely Available & Trusted Brand** Tri-Industrial is a reputable aftermarket supplier with a strong reputation for reliability. Their parts are commonly stocked by performance shops and online retailers, making them easy to source.

5. **Cost-Effective Upgrade** Compared to full engine rebuilds or custom rods, these aftermarket rods offer a budget-friendly way to improve engine strength without sacrificing performance.

6. **Compatibility with Aftermarket Parts** Since these rods are designed for common VW engines, they work well with other aftermarket components like crankshafts, pistons, and bearings, allowing for a full performance upgrade.

7. **Warranty & Support** Tri-Industrial typically offers warranties on their products, providing some assurance against manufacturing defects. Customer support is generally responsive for troubleshooting or replacement needs.

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#### **Cons:**

1. **Not OEM Parts** These are aftermarket replacements, meaning they may not have the exact same finish or machining as genuine VW rods. While they are high-quality, they lack the original equipment manufacturer s branding and may not fit perfectly in some cases without additional machining.

2. **Potential Fitment Issues** Depending on the specific engine variant or modifications (e.g., crankshaft length, piston type), there may be slight clearance concerns. Some users report needing to check rod length or bolt patterns to ensure compatibility.

3. **Installation Knowledge Required** Replacing connecting rods is a complex job that often requires disassembling the engine, removing the crankshaft, and carefully aligning the rods. Inexperienced DIYers may struggle with this process, potentially leading to mistakes or damage.

4. **Cost of Additional Components** While the rods themselves are reasonably priced, upgrading to these parts may necessitate purchasing complementary components (e.g., new bearings, seals, or a crankshaft) to ensure the engine runs smoothly.

5. **Limited Customization** Unlike fully custom rods, these are pre-engineered for specific applications. If you need rods with unique specifications (e.g., different lengths, weights, or materials), you may need to look elsewhere.

6. **Quality Variability (Depends on Source)** While Tri-Industrial is generally reliable, counterfeit or low-quality replicas of these rods exist in the aftermarket. Always purchase from trusted sellers to avoid receiving subpar parts.

7. **Potential for Overkill on Stock Engines** If your engine is stock and not modified, these rods may be unnecessary. Upgrading rods without corresponding power increases (e.g., turbo, forced induction) could lead to wasted investment.

---

### **Conclusion:**

Tri-Industrial s 021-401A / 021-105-401AX connecting rods are an excellent choice for **VW 1.7L/1.8L engines (Type 4/Type 2) undergoing performance upgrades**, particularly those involving turbocharging or increased power output. Their forged steel construction, precision machining, and compatibility with common modifications make them a strong aftermarket alternative to OEM parts. However, they are not a universal fix proper research, installation expertise, and complementary upgrades (e.g., crankshaft, bearings) are essential for success.

For **stock or lightly modified engines**, these rods may not be necessary unless you re planning significant power increases. In such cases, sticking with OEM rods or lower-cost aftermarket options might suffice.

---

### **Recommendation:** - **Buy these rods if:**

- You are modifying a **1.7L/1.8L VW engine (Type 4/Type 2) with turbocharging, forced induction, or significant power upgrades.**

- You want a **cost-effective, high-quality upgrade** over OEM rods without sacrificing performance.

- You have access to **proper tools and mechanical knowledge** (or are working with a trusted mechanic) for installation.

- You source them from a **reputable seller** (e.g., Summit Racing, JEGS, or a well-reviewed online retailer).

- **Avoid these rods if:**

- Your engine is **stock or only mildly modified** and not subject to high stresses.

- You lack experience with **engine disassembly/reassembly** and cannot ensure proper installation.

- You are looking for **fully custom rods** with unique specifications (e.g., different lengths for a specific build).

- You cannot verify the **authenticity of the parts** to avoid counterfeit or low-quality replicas.

**Final Verdict:** For performance-oriented VW owners pushing their engines beyond stock limits, these rods are a **solid, reliable upgrade**. For casual drivers or those without modifications, they are likely unnecessary. Always pair this upgrade with a **full engine inspection** and complementary components to maximize longevity and performance.

Details:

NOS 2-Two reman 021 connecting rods Fits 1.7, 1.8 engines No Core return required.

part #: 021401a price

  • $89.10

specifications pistonrinro:

  • brand: Tri-industrial
  • mpn: 021-401a
  • type: Connecting Rod
  • oe/oem part number: 021-105-401a
  • material: Steel
  • vintage part: No
  • country of origin: Mexico

general pistonrinro:

  • Car Truck Parts Accessories > Engines Engine Parts > Connecting Rods Parts
  • condition: Remanufactured

payments pistonrinro:

  • credit card: Discover
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  • wallet: Apple-pay

seller pistonrinro:

  • city: Oak Lawn, Illinois
  • # reviews: 7416
  • rating: 100.0%

offer pistonrinro:

  • options: Ship-to-home
  • availability: In Stock
  • best offers: True
  • started: March 3, 2026
  • quantity: 1
  • sold: 0

returns pistonrinro:

  • time: 30 Days
  • paid by: Seller
  • policy: Returns Accepted

shipping pistonrinro:

  • service: USPS Ground Advantage
  • transit: 2-6 Days
  • carrier: USPS
  • class: Standard
  • type: Calculated
  • cost: $16.15
type: connecting rod, oe/oem part number: 021-105-401a, vintage part: no, country of origin: mexico,
category: auto parts > car truck parts accessories > engines engine parts > connecting rods parts, material: steel, sku: 12592887013395762,
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