Must the connecting rod be replaced if it is bent?
2 Answers
Must the connecting rod be replaced if it is bent? The following is an introduction to the connecting rod: Introduction: It connects the piston and the crankshaft, transmits the force acting on the piston to the crankshaft, and converts the reciprocating motion of the piston into the rotational motion of the crankshaft. Structural composition: The connecting rod body consists of three parts. The part connected to the piston pin is called the small end of the connecting rod; the part connected to the crankshaft is called the big end of the connecting rod, and the rod part connecting the small end and the big end is called the connecting rod shank. The small end of the connecting rod is mostly a thin-walled circular ring structure. To reduce wear between it and the piston pin, a thin-walled bronze bushing is pressed into the small end hole. Holes or grooves are drilled or milled on the small end and the bushing to allow splashed oil mist to enter and lubricate the mating surface between the bushing and the piston pin.
I've seen many friends asking what to do if the connecting rod is bent. I remember last time my own car had an issue—the engine shook violently at idle, and after inspection, they said the connecting rod was bent and needed replacement. The technician explained that a bent connecting rod causes uneven force distribution, leading to abnormal piston movement. In mild cases, it increases fuel consumption and vibration, while in severe cases, it can cause the engine to knock, resulting in greater damage. Therefore, timely replacement is the best approach—don’t cut corners by trying to repair it, as the bend can’t be fully restored. After installing a new part, regular maintenance can extend its lifespan. I spent some money fixing it back then, and the car runs smoothly again—safety first!
