Carrillo Performance Engine Parts

The best connecting rods for a built engine are Carrillo forged H-beam and A-beam rods, with the Pro-H line using 3/8-inch CARR bolts for high-boost forced-induction builds and the Pro-Super A line covering applications from Honda K-series to Subaru EJ and FA engines and the GT-R's VR38DETT.

Connecting rods link the pistons to the crankshaft and take the full beating of every combustion event. When a build moves past stock power with a bigger turbo, higher boost, or higher RPM, the factory rods become the weak link, and forged aftermarket rods are the insurance policy that keeps the bottom end together. Browse the connecting rods department to compare designs across brands.

The two things that matter most are beam design and bolts. H-beam rods are the go-to for high-horsepower turbo builds, while A-beam designs like Carrillo's Pro-Super A trim weight for applications where response matters. A rod is only as strong as the bolts holding the cap on, which is why Carrillo's 3/8-inch CARR bolts are specified right in the product titles. Proven alternatives in this class include Manley Performance, JE Pistons, and CP Pistons for rotating-assembly parts, plus ARP for fasteners and hardware.

The Carrillo lineup

Carrillo's Pro-H series is the H-beam workhorse of the catalog, and the applications in this collection show its reach. The Pro-H H-beam rods for the 2009-2021 GT-R's VR38DETT are built for one of the most power-hungry factory turbo engines ever made, and the same Pro-H 3/8 CARR bolt construction appears in sets for Honda and Acura K20 engines and the C30A/C32B V6. Whether you are building a turbo K-series or a high-horsepower GT-R, you get the same proven H-beam architecture and the same CARR bolt hardware.

The Pro-Super A series takes the A-beam route, led by the Super 99 Pro-H rod set for Honda and Acura K20 engines sold as a matched set of four, alongside Pro-Super A single rods for Subaru WRX/STI EJ20 and EJ257 engines from 2002-2020 and Pro-H rods for the Subaru FA20. Matched sets suit full rebuilds, while single rods work for replacing one damaged rod in an otherwise healthy bottom end. For context on built Subaru bottom ends, see our article on the 2015+ FA engine in the WRX.

Frequently asked questions

H-beam or A-beam: which Carrillo rod should I choose?

Pro-H H-beam rods are the default for high-boost forced-induction builds where maximum beam strength matters, while Pro-Super A rods suit builds where weight and response are priorities. Match the design to your build with your engine builder.

Do connecting rods require a tune?

The rods themselves do not require a tune, but a re-tune is standard practice after any forged-bottom-end rebuild. Check with your tuner before the first start-up.

Can I buy a single rod instead of a full set?

Yes. This collection includes matched sets of four as well as individual rods, such as the single Pro-Super A rod for EJ20/EJ257 engines. A single rod repairs one damaged cylinder; a full rebuild should use a matched set.

How do I confirm fitment?

Rod fitment is engine-code specific, not just model specific. This collection covers VR38DETT, Honda/Acura K20 and C30A/C32B, and Subaru EJ20/EJ257 and FA20 applications. Confirm your exact engine code and check your year and model against the product page before ordering.