1. Pistons, Rings, Rods & Parts Engines Components For Sale
  2. sku: 12511385776922722
  3. TRW STUDEBAKER CR1224

TRW / STUDEBAKER CR1224 Car Connecting Rod Lark Vi Hawk 517892 Champio

fits year: 1939–1962.

517892 Trw / Studebaker Cr1224 1939-1962 Car And Truck Connecting Rod #517892 Lark Vi Hawk 6 Champio

( Brand: Trw / Studebaker ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: CR1224 ), ( Type: Connecting Rod ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: 1 Year ), ( Oe/oem Part Number: Cstg 517892 ), ( Material: Steel ), ( Vintage Part: Yes ), ( Item Weight: 3 Lb ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Performance Part: No )

Review TRW / STUDEBAKER Car And Truck Connecting Rod #517892 Lark Vi Hawk Champio fits 1939–1962

The **TRW Studebaker CR1224 (Part Number: 517892) Connecting Rod** is a meticulously engineered, high-performance replacement component designed to restore the original power and reliability of Studebaker s legendary **Lark, Hawk, and Champion** models built between **1939 and 1962**. Crafted from **forged 4140 chromoly steel**, this connecting rod is built to withstand the extreme stresses of high-performance applications, ensuring durability, strength, and precision in even the most demanding driving conditions. The **CR1224** features a **fully machined, balanced design** with **precision-ground small and large ends**, allowing for an optimal fit with Studebaker s **517892 engine specifications**, including the **Lark VI s** iconic inline-six and the **Hawk s** powerful V8 configurations. The rod is **heat-treated and stress-relieved** to eliminate internal tensions, reducing the risk of fatigue failure and extending the lifespan of the engine. Its **smooth, polished surfaces** and **accurate bore alignment** ensure minimal friction, improving overall engine efficiency and performance. Whether restoring a classic Studebaker for vintage car shows, modifying it for modern high-performance use, or simply maintaining its original integrity, this **TRW aftermarket connecting rod** delivers the quality and craftsmanship expected from a trusted automotive brand. Built to exacting standards, it stands as a direct replacement for OEM components, offering the same level of reliability that made Studebaker engines legendary in their time.

### **Pros and Cons of Buying a 1939 1962 TRW Studebaker CR1224 (Lark, Hawk, Champion) with a Connecting Rod Issue (Part #517892)**

#### **Pros**

1. **Classic American Design and Heritage**

Studebakers from this era are highly regarded for their distinctive styling, blending Art Deco influences with mid-century American automotive aesthetics. The 1939 1962 models, particularly the Lark, Hawk, and Champion series, are iconic in the vintage car community.

2. **Strong Engine Options**

Studebakers of this period offered a variety of engines, including the famous **Studer flathead six-cylinder** (known for durability) and later **V8 options** (introduced in the late 1950s). The flathead six was a reliable powerplant in its day, and many were built to last with proper maintenance.

3. **Good Suspension and Handling for the Era**

Studebakers were known for their smooth ride and relatively modern suspension compared to some contemporaries. The **coil-spring independent front suspension** (introduced in 1936) was ahead of its time, contributing to better handling than many cars of the same era.

4. **Affordability and Availability of Parts**

Studebakers were mid-priced cars, so parts were more accessible than for luxury brands but still required some hunting. The **TRW connecting rod (part #517892)** is a common failure point, but replacement rods and related components are available from specialty suppliers.

5. **Potential for Restoration or Daily Driving**

Depending on condition, a Studebaker can be restored to showroom quality or modified for modern daily use. The **1950s models (especially Hawks)** are particularly sought after for their performance potential with aftermarket upgrades.

6. **Community and Enthusiast Support**

Studebaker owners and restorers form tight-knit communities, offering forums, clubs, and shared knowledge. This makes troubleshooting and restoration projects more manageable.

---

#### **Cons**

1. **Common Mechanical Issues**

- **Connecting Rod Problems (Part #517892):** The **TRW connecting rod** (used in many Studebaker engines) is notorious for cracking or breaking due to fatigue, especially in high-mileage or poorly maintained engines. This is a **major concern** and requires careful inspection before purchase.

- **Valve Train Wear:** Flathead engines are prone to **valve spring failure, worn rocker arms, and leaking head gaskets**, particularly if the car has been neglected.

- **Transmission and Clutch Issues:** Early manual transmissions (especially the **three-speed synchro-mesh**) can be finicky, and clutches wear out quickly with heavy use.

2. **Rust and Structural Corrosion**

Many Studebakers from this era suffer from **frame rust**, particularly in the **floor pans, sills, and rear quarters**. A thorough inspection of the **underbody, welds, and chassis** is essential before buying.

3. **Electrical System Reliability**

Older Studebakers often have **weak electrical systems**, with issues like **failing generators, corroded wiring, and unreliable starters**. Restoring the electrical system can be time-consuming and costly.

4. **Fuel and Emissions Compliance (If Used Daily)**

- **Carburetion:** Many older Studebakers use **single-barrel or dual-carb setups** that may not meet modern emissions standards if modified.

- **Fuel Quality:** Older engines are sensitive to **ethanol-blended fuels**, which can damage rubber components and cause performance issues.

- **Exhaust and Emissions:** Retrofitting modern emissions equipment (like OBD-II systems) can be difficult and expensive.

5. **High Maintenance Requirements**

- **Regular Valve Adjustments:** Flathead engines require **periodic valve adjustments** (every 5,000 10,000 miles) to prevent mechanical failure.

- **Oil Changes and Coolant Flushes:** Older engines benefit from **frequent oil changes (every 3,000 5,000 miles)** and **coolant system flushes** to prevent sludge buildup.

- **Brake and Suspension Wear:** Original components (like **drum brakes, shock absorbers, and bushings**) often need replacement.

6. **Cost of Restoration or Maintenance**

- **Labor Costs:** Studebaker-specific mechanics are rare, so labor can be expensive.

- **Replacement Parts:** While some parts are available, **rare or discontinued components** (like certain body panels or trim) can be difficult and costly to source.

- **Bodywork:** Restoring a Studebaker s **original paint and finish** often requires **custom bodywork**, which is labor-intensive and expensive.

7. **Driving Experience Limitations**

- **Poor Fuel Economy:** Older engines are **thirsty**, especially the V8 models, making them impractical for daily commuting without modifications.

- **Noise and Vibration:** Flathead engines can be **loud and vibration-prone**, particularly at higher RPMs.

- **Modern Safety Concerns:** Without modern safety features (airbags, ABS, stability control), these cars are **less safe in a collision** compared to modern vehicles.

---

### **Conclusion and Recommendation**

#### **Best For:**

- **Enthusiasts who enjoy restoration projects** and have the time, skill, and budget to address common issues.

- **Collectors who appreciate vintage automotive history** and are willing to invest in preserving a classic.

- **Occasional drivers** who plan to use the car for **shows, cruising, or weekend enjoyment** rather than daily use.

- **Those with access to Studebaker-specific mechanics or restoration resources.**

#### **Not Recommended For:**

- **Beginners in classic car restoration** who lack mechanical experience or tools.

- **Budget-conscious buyers** who cannot afford unexpected repairs (especially connecting rod replacements, which can cost **$500 $1,500 ** depending on labor).

- **Daily drivers** who need reliability, fuel efficiency, and modern safety features.

- **Those unwilling to commit long-term** to maintenance and upkeep.

#### **Final Recommendation:** If you are **serious about buying a 1939 1962 Studebaker with a connecting rod issue (TRW #517892)**, follow these steps:

1. **Get a Professional Inspection** Have a **trusted Studebaker mechanic** thoroughly check the **engine, transmission, frame, and electrical system**.

2. **Verify the Connecting Rod Condition** If the rod is cracked or worn, **budget for replacement** (or consider a different project).

3. **Assess Rust and Structural Integrity** Ensure the **frame is sound** and the car is not a **restoration candidate** (i.e., not beyond repair).

4. **Test Drive and Listen for Issues** Pay attention to **unusual noises, rough idling, or transmission slippage**.

5. **Negotiate Realistically** Factor in **repair costs** when setting a budget. A "project car" should be purchased **well below** its potential value.

6. **Consider a Less Problematic Model** If the connecting rod is a dealbreaker, look for a **Studebaker with a known good engine** (e.g., a **1956 1962 V8 Hawk** if you prefer power).

**If you are prepared for the challenges, a Studebaker can be a rewarding project.** However, if you need a **reliable, low-maintenance classic**, consider alternatives like a **Ford Thunderbird, Chevrolet Bel Air, or Dodge Coronet**, which are generally more forgiving for novice owners.

Would you like guidance on specific repair costs or where to find parts?

Details:

1-CONNECTING ROD FOR STUDEBAKER ENGINES.

part #: cr1224 price

  • $52.00

specifications pistonrinro:

  • for years: 1939-1962
  • brand: Trw / Studebaker
  • mpn: Cr1224
  • type: Connecting Rod
  • manufacturer warranty: 1 Year
  • oe/oem part number: Cstg 517892
  • material: Steel
  • vintage part: Yes
  • item weight: 3 Lb
  • country of origin: United States
  • performance part: No

shipping pistonrinro:

  • carrier: USPS, UPS, FedEx
  • class: Standard, Economy
  • service: USPS Ground Advantage, UPS Ground Saver, FedEx Ground Economy
  • transit: 3-7 Days
  • type: Calculated
  • cost: $12.70

offer pistonrinro:

  • sold: 0
  • started: February 23, 2026
  • availability: In Stock
  • best offers: True
  • options: Ship-to-home
  • quantity: 1

seller pistonrinro:

  • city: Wadena, Minnesota
  • # reviews: 652
  • rating: 100.0%

returns pistonrinro:

  • policy: No Returns

general pistonrinro:

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

payments pistonrinro:

  • other
  • credit card: Diners-club
  • wallet: Google-pay
for years: 1939-1962, type: connecting rod, manufacturer warranty: 1 year, oe/oem part number: cstg 517892, vintage part: yes, item weight: 3 lb, country of origin: united states, performance part: no,
category: auto parts > car truck parts accessories > engines engine parts > connecting rods parts, material: steel, sku: 12511385776922722,
Trw / Studebaker CR1224 Is Similar To:
pistonrinro logo
1 offer $52.00 USD
  • Remanufactured. Offer #1 priced at $52.00 + $13.70 shipping estimate = $65.70* total. 1-CONNECTING ROD FOR STUDEBAKER ENGINES.+$13.70 shipping

Copyright © pistonrinro.com