Connecting Rod Bolts

StandardOEM Standard
MaterialSCM435 / 42CrMo
Strength Grade12.9
Size RangeM6-M12
Surface TreatmentBlack Oxide
01

Product Description

Product Description & Key Specifications

Connecting rod bolts are critical engine fasteners used to clamp the rod cap to the connecting rod while the joint is exposed to repeated tensile load, inertia load and vibration. They should be specified by OEM drawing rather than treated as standard hex bolts because shank diameter, thread runout, under-head radius, bearing face and tightening method all affect fatigue performance.

This range covers SCM435 and 42CrMo alloy steel connecting rod bolts in grade 12.9, commonly supplied from M6 to M12 for passenger car, commercial vehicle, performance engine and selected hybrid powertrain programs. Heat treatment, controlled thread rolling, head geometry and lot traceability are managed according to the approved drawing and inspection plan.

Black oxide is a low-build finish often used for internal engine fasteners where dimensional fit and controlled assembly condition matter more than outdoor corrosion resistance. RFQs normally confirm torque, torque-angle or stretch-based tightening requirements, head style, thread length, material certificate level and whether PPAP or project inspection documents are required.

Product typeOEM connecting rod bolts / con rod cap bolts
Standard basisOEM drawing / engine maker specification
MaterialSCM435 / 42CrMo alloy steel
Strength grade12.9, quenched and tempered
Size rangeM6-M12
Common modelsM6 x 35, M7 x 40, M8 x 45, M9 x 50, M10 x 55, M12 x 65 by drawing
Thread typeMetric coarse or fine thread, rolled thread by drawing
Head and shank12-point, flange, hex or OEM head form with controlled shank and under-head radius
Surface finishBlack oxide / oiled black oxide; alternative finish only after engineering approval
Assembly controlTorque, torque-angle or bolt stretch requirements confirmed by OEM specification
DocumentationMTC, heat treatment record, hardness, tensile, dimensional report, PPAP support on request
02

Selection

Selection Advantages by Application

Engine Connecting Rod Assemblies

Grade 12.9 SCM435 / 42CrMo rod bolts are selected for con rod cap joints where fatigue strength, clamp retention and repeatable tightening are critical.

Automotive and EV fasteners

Performance and Aftermarket Engine Programs

Drawing-based M6-M12 connecting rod bolts can be produced for rebuild kits, performance engines and low-volume powertrain projects with controlled head and shank geometry.

Automotive powertrain fasteners

Industrial Engine and Generator Sets

SCM435 / 42CrMo high-fatigue bolts can support engine-related industrial equipment procurement when the drawing, tightening method and inspection plan are defined.

Industrial equipment fasteners
03

Assembly

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04

Manufacturing

Manufacturing & Quality Control

Manufacturing CapabilityQuality Control
OEM drawing review for head style, shank length, thread runout and under-head radiusMaterial heat number control for SCM435 / 42CrMo and batch traceability
Cold heading, precision forging or machining route selected by geometry and volumeFirst article dimensional inspection against engine drawing
Quench and temper heat treatment for grade 12.9 performanceHardness, tensile and metallurgical checks arranged by lot requirement
Controlled thread rolling and bearing-face finishingThread gauge, shank diameter, runout and under-head radius inspection
Black oxide, oiling and protective packaging for engine fastener supplyMTC, CoC, dimensional report and PPAP documentation support on request
05

FAQ

Common Questions Before RFQ

Why are connecting rod bolts different from standard bolts?

They work inside a fatigue-loaded engine joint, so the drawing controls shank diameter, head geometry, thread runout, surface condition and tightening method more tightly than a general-purpose bolt.

Can you supply 12.9 SCM435 or 42CrMo connecting rod bolts?

Yes. Grade 12.9 connecting rod bolts can be supplied in SCM435 or 42CrMo when the OEM drawing, heat treatment requirement and inspection criteria are confirmed.

Are connecting rod bolts reusable?

Reuse depends on the engine maker specification. Bolts tightened by torque-angle or stretch method should not be reused unless the OEM service procedure clearly allows it.

Why use black oxide on connecting rod bolts?

Black oxide provides a low-build finish suitable for many internal engine applications. It is not selected as a heavy outdoor corrosion coating, so coating choice should follow the drawing.

Can you support torque-angle or stretch-controlled bolt designs?

Yes. The tightening method can be considered during drawing review, but the required torque, angle, stretch limit and acceptance criteria should come from the OEM specification.

What should be included in an RFQ?

Send the drawing, size, material, grade, head form, thread details, surface finish, tightening requirement, quantity and certificate or PPAP requirements.

Need OEM connecting rod bolts for an engine program?

Send your drawing, material, grade 12.9 requirement, size, head geometry, thread details, tightening method, surface finish and documentation needs. We can review manufacturability and quote a traceable production route.

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