fits model: 800.

( Brand: Elgin Industries ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: CR-12 ), ( Type: Connecting Rod ), ( Items Included: Bushing ), ( Material: 4340 Steel ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Performance Part: Yes )
The **Elgin CR-12 BBC Steel 6.800" Connecting Rod with ARP Bolts and Floating 4340 Race Nitrous Kit** represents the pinnacle of high-performance engine building, engineered to withstand the extreme demands of forced induction and nitrous oxide applications while delivering unmatched reliability and power potential. Crafted from **forged BBC (Big Block Chevy) steel**, this connecting rod is a masterpiece of precision engineering, featuring a **6.800-inch bolt circle** a dimension carefully selected to optimize strength, balance, and compatibility with modern high-output engines. The rod s **fully machined surfaces** ensure a seamless fit with your crankshaft and cap, minimizing stress concentrations and maximizing durability, even under the most aggressive conditions. The **ARP (Advanced Racing Products) bolts** included in this package are nothing short of legendary, featuring **Grade 8.8 or higher** tensile strength, **cold-forged and heat-treated 4340 steel**, and **floating nitrous washers** designed to prevent bolt stretch and preload loss when subjected to the explosive pressures of nitrous oxide injection. These bolts are **pre-loaded to factory specifications** and come with **ARP s signature black oxide finish**, which enhances corrosion resistance and grip on the rod threads. The **floating 4340 race nitrous washers** further elevate performance by maintaining consistent preload under extreme thermal cycling, ensuring the bolts remain securely engaged even as the engine operates at peak power levels. Whether you're running a **supercharged, turbocharged, or nitrous-boosted** big block Chevy, this connecting rod and bolt package is a **must-have upgrade** for those seeking to push their engine to its absolute limits without compromising structural integrity. Built to endure **high RPMs, extreme horsepower figures, and the thermal shock of nitrous**, this assembly is a testament to Elgin s commitment to quality and performance, offering engine builders a **proven solution** for those who refuse to settle for anything less than the best.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Elgin CR-12 BBC Steel 6.800" Connecting Rod with ARP Bolts (Floating 4340 Race Nitrous)**
#### **Pros**
1. **High-Strength Material** The BBC steel used in these rods is known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making them ideal for high-performance applications, including nitrous oxide (NOx) use. The 4340 alloy steel further enhances durability under extreme stress.
2. **Floating Bolt Design** The floating bolt setup (with ARP bolts) reduces stress concentration at the rod bolt holes, improving fatigue resistance. This is critical for forced induction and nitrous applications where cyclic loading is severe.
3. **Oversized Dimensions (6.800")** The 6.800" rod diameter is larger than stock, which increases the cross-sectional area, reducing stress per unit load. This is beneficial for high-power applications where stock rods may fail prematurely.
4. **ARP Bolts for Critical Retention** ARP (Advanced Retaining Products) bolts are industry-standard for high-performance engines. They provide superior clamp load retention, preventing bolt stretch or loosening under extreme conditions.
5. **Race-Proven Design** Elgin is a reputable manufacturer with a history of producing rods for professional racing, including NHRA, drag racing, and circle track. The CR-12 is specifically designed for nitrous and high-horsepower applications.
6. **Balanced Weight** While heavier than stock rods, the design is optimized for strength without excessive weight, which helps maintain engine balance and reduce vibration.
7. **Compatibility with Nitrous** The combination of oversized rods, floating bolts, and high-strength steel makes this an excellent choice for nitrous setups, where peak power spikes can exceed 1,000 HP for brief periods.
8. **Warranty and Support** Elgin offers warranties on their rods, and their customer service is generally reliable for high-performance parts.
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#### **Cons**
1. **Cost** High-performance rods like the CR-12 are significantly more expensive than stock or aftermarket rods designed for mild street use. The price reflects the specialized materials and machining required.
2. **Installation Complexity** These rods are not a drop-in replacement for stock rods. They require careful installation, including proper gap checking, alignment, and torque specifications. Improper installation can lead to failure.
3. **Weight** While not excessively heavy, the increased mass compared to stock rods may slightly reduce engine responsiveness, especially in high-revving applications. However, the strength benefits usually outweigh this trade-off.
4. **Limited Availability** Specialty parts like these may not be as widely stocked as more common aftermarket rods, requiring special ordering or purchasing from specialized suppliers.
5. **Maintenance Requirements** High-performance rods demand meticulous maintenance, including regular inspection for cracks, proper lubrication, and adherence to recommended torque values.
6. **Potential Overkill for Mild Applications** If the engine is not heavily modified (e.g., mild turbo, no nitrous), these rods may be unnecessarily expensive. For such applications, a more budget-friendly rod (e.g., ARP, JE, or even high-quality stock replacements) might suffice.
7. **Risk of Damage from Improper Handling** These rods are strong but not indestructible. Dropping them or mishandling them during installation could cause internal damage, voiding warranties.
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### **Ending Conclusion**
The **Elgin CR-12 BBC Steel 6.800" connecting rod with ARP floating bolts** is one of the best choices for engines running nitrous oxide, forced induction, or extreme power levels (500 HP and above). Its combination of oversized dimensions, floating bolt design, and high-strength steel makes it a reliable and proven option for racers and serious builders. However, it is not a necessary upgrade for mild street applications where stock or moderately upgraded rods would suffice.
### **Recommendation**
- **Buy if:** You are running nitrous, a turbocharger, or a heavily modified engine expecting sustained high power (500 HP). You are prepared for the cost and proper installation.
- **Avoid if:** Your engine is stock or mildly modified (e.g., mild turbo, no nitrous). In such cases, consider more affordable rods like ARP, JE, or other high-quality aftermarket options.
- **Alternative Considerations:** If budget is a concern, look for **Elgin s lower-tier rods** (e.g., CR-10) or other brands like **ARP, JE, or Manley** that offer strong rods at a lower cost. Always ensure the rods are properly matched to your engine s power levels and intended use.
For nitrous or high-power applications, the **Elgin CR-12 is a top-tier choice**, but it must be paired with the rest of a properly built engine to avoid failure.
THEY VARY IN WEIGHT FROM 577 ON THE BIG END AND 251 PIN FREE SHIPPING Made from 4340 steel, these rods are designed for racing applications and manufactured in the USA. It is a genuine replacement part with the manufacturer number CR12. The connecting rods are full floating with bronze bushings and designed for high performance racing vehicles, such as big motor nitrous cars. The product is a SINGLE 6.800 inch BIG BLOCK CHEVY connecting rods made by ELGIN INDUSTRIES, featuring ARP bolts for enhanced performance.