HOT RODS Connecting Rod Kit for HONDA TRX 350 2000-2006

On HONDA TRX 350 from 2000 to 2006, the HOT RODS 8698 connecting rod kit fits in place of the original part. Between the piston and the crankshaft, the connecting rod takes every combustion and every climb through the revs. Replacing the rod, crank pin and bearing in time prevents engine failure.

Specifications

• Brand: HOT RODS
• Manufacturer part number: 8698
• Centre-to-centre length: 116 mm
• Small end bore: 17 mm
• Big end bore: 41 mm
• Small end width: 20 mm
• Big end width: 20 mm
• Crankpin diameter: 32 mm
• Crankpin length: 60 mm
• Small end bearing: 17 mm
• Big end bearing: 32x41x20 mm
• Conrod thrust washers: 1.0 mm
• Engine: 4-stroke

When to replace it?

• Vertical play at the big end at top dead centre.
• Side play out of tolerance, signs of overheating (bluing).
• Vibration and dull noise from the bottom end.

During a bottom end rebuild, at the intervals in the service manual, and without delay as soon as play appears at the big end.

Fitting tips

1. Replacing a connecting rod means pressing the crankshaft apart and then realigning it: with a dial indicator, you check the run-out, i.e. the deviation in rotation measured at the end of the shaft, which must stay within a few hundredths of a millimetre at most. Leave this job to a properly equipped workshop if you don't have a press and a truing stand.
2. Replace the crankshaft bearings and oil seals at the same time.
3. Check the big-end side play after assembly.
4. Close up the engine with a complete engine gasket kit and tighten to the manufacturer's torque.
5. Check the gearbox bearings, then fill up with fresh oil and fit a new spark plug.

Why HOT RODS?

Hot Rods has been making off-road bottom-end parts since 1993: crankshafts, connecting rods and bearing kits. Its connecting rods are forged and machined in the USA from case-hardened 8620 nickel-chrome-moly steel, and its crankshafts come assembled and trued to the manufacturer's tolerances.

Spare parts and items to plan

• Crankshaft bearings and seals : see the selection
• Complete engine gasket kit : see the selection
• Gearbox bearings : see the selection
• 4-stroke engine oil : LIQUI MOLY 10W40 1 L · MOTUL 10W50
• Spark plug : see the selection

Frequently asked questions

Can I fit the connecting rod myself?
Yes, if you have a press and a crankshaft truing stand; otherwise, an engine workshop can do it for you.

What else should I plan for?
The crankshaft bearing and seal kit, the complete engine gasket kit, the gearbox bearings if required, engine oil and a spark plug.

Compatibility

Check the exact model and year of your bike in the list below before ordering.

Fits:
HONDA TRX 350 2006
HONDA TRX 350 2005
HONDA TRX 350 2004
HONDA TRX 350 2003
HONDA TRX 350 2002
HONDA TRX 350 2001
HONDA TRX 350 2000