Connecting rods are cast out of steel or aluminum. Just like the crankshaft, they are weighed and balanced to
make sure they operate at high speeds without vibration and wear. Connecting rods vary in length. Depending
on the engine application they can be short or long. Shorter rods tend to be found in engines that operate
under normal operating conditions. Longer rods tend to be found in engines built for high torque and
performance applications.
Oil Pump
In order for all the parts in an engine to move smoothly and effortlessly they
must have a strong, steady supply of oil to keep the mating surfaces lubricated
and reduce friction and wear. This is the job of the oil pump, which operates off
a mechanical drive within the engine. At the bottom of the oil pump is a special
tube called a “pickup tube.” A screen is attached to the end of this tube that is
submerged into the crankcase (the oil pan). This screen strains out wear material
and chunks of dirt in the engine.