How to Measure Connecting Rod Length

How to Measure Connecting Rod Length
Written By
Brad Chacos
Brad Chacos
Published: Nov 4, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

A major step in identifying the ratio is to accurately measure the length of the connecting rod, which is the distance between the centers of the large and small holes in the rod.

  1. Measure the inner diameter of the connecting rod's smaller hole using the caliper's inner jaws. Divide the number in half.

  2. Measure the inner diameter of the connecting rod's larger hole, using the caliper's inner jaws. Divide the number in half. Add the halved small and large hole numbers together.

  3. Measure the length of the metal between the end of the connecting rod and its inner diameter, taking the measurement as close to center of the rod end as possible. Perform this measurement on both ends, then add the numbers together. Add the total to the sum of the halved inner diameters.

  4. Place the connecting rod on a flat surface. Measure the rod lengthwise from end to end with the caliper's outer jaws. Record the value.

  5. Subtract the total length of the halved inner diameters and the metal wall on the ends of the rod from the total length of the connecting rod. This number will be the final measured length.

The Drip Cap

  • Connecting rods connect the pistons to the crankshaft in internal combustion engines.
  • Measure the inner diameter of the connecting rod's smaller hole using the caliper's inner jaws.
  • Divide the number in half.
  • Subtract the total length of the halved inner diameters and the metal wall on the ends of the rod from the total length of the connecting rod.

Photo Credits

Don Farrall/Photodisc/Getty Images

Don Farrall/Photodisc/Getty Images

Brad Chacos

Brad Chacos started writing professionally in 2005, specializing in electronics and technology. His work has appeared in Salon.com, Gizmodo, "PC Gamer," "Maximum PC," CIO.com, DigitalTrends.com, "Wired," FoxNews.com, NBCNews.com and more.…

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