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Zrp bmw m5 e34 s38b38 connecting rods
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ZRP BMW M5 E34 S38B38 Connecting Rods

SKU: R-BMW-009H Categories: , , , , , , , , , , Tags: , ,

999.99€

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In Stock - Available from Supplier Dispatch between 22 December - 29 December.
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24/7 SUPPORT

The ZRP BMW M5 E34 S38B38 Connecting Rods are designed for an engine with a very clear personality. The S38 is all about torque, long pulls, and mechanical honesty. It was overbuilt by BMW standards, yet once mileage climbs or power increases, the factory rods become the part that asks questions. You know what? That’s usually when builders stop trusting nostalgia and start reinforcing the bottom end.

ZRP machines each rod from 4340 high-tensile steel, giving the S38 the strength it needs without turning the rotating assembly into dead weight. The profile keeps mass in check while handling the kind of cylinder pressure these straight-six engines can generate. At the small end, AMPCO 18 bronze bushings hold their shape under heat and load, while a clean radial oil groove helps maintain a stable oil film as revs build. It sounds subtle, but on a big-displacement naturally aspirated engine, oil control is half the story.

After machining, the rods go through shot peening to relieve surface stress, followed by a controlled multi-stage heat treatment. The outcome feels calm and consistent. Oil clearances stay steady. Bend and twist remain controlled. Once the rods are in place, the crank rotates with a sense of order that inspires confidence, especially when the S38 is working hard through the midrange.

Each set comes fitted with ARP 2000 rod bolts rated at 220,000 psi, with the option to move to ARP L19 bolts for higher output or competition builds. ARP moly lubricant and clear installation guidance are included, so experienced builders can move through assembly without second-guessing.

For BMW M5 E34 owners restoring, refreshing, or pushing an S38B38 beyond stock limits, these ZRP connecting rods provide a solid foundation. They remove doubt, support long-term reliability, and let the engine deliver its power the way it always promised—strong, smooth, and deeply mechanical.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Brand

Shape

H-Beam
Material

High Tensile Steel 4340
Length

142.50mm
Bolt Size

3/8"
Application

3.8L M5 S38
B.E Width

24.00mm
Set Of

6
Discplacement

3.8L
Pin Size

22.00mm
Series

–
Engine

3.8L – S38B38
Note

–

PREPREG is a common term for a reinforcing fabric such carbon which has been pre-impregnated with a resin system. This resin system (typically epoxy) already includes the proper curing agent. As a result, the prepreg is ready to be laid into the mold without the addition of any more resin. In order for the laminate to cure, an autoclave production process is used, a combination of high pressure and heat.

  • Maximum strength and performance characterictics. In a hand layup production process, it is difficult to achieve 50% fabric and 50% resin content.  Typical hand laminates, even when vacuum bagged, end up with a significant amount of excess resin. Excess resin increases brittleness and reduces overall strength properties. On the other hand, most prepregs contain around 35% resin. This is ideal for maximum cured properties and generally impossible to achieve in normal hand lamination.
  • Uniformity and repeatability. The prepreg is of uniform thickness and each part coming out of the mold may theoretically be the same. Vacuum bagging technology may have some errors in processing, but prepreg ensures production consistency.
  • Reduce curing time. After the thermal curing cycle, no need to wait for the standard 48 hours can be fully cured.
  • Aesthetics. Although prepreg processing still requires mold preparation and demoulding, prepreg processing eliminates air bubbles, makes it easier to obtain a smooth, glossy surface as well as eliminates any seaming lines.

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We offer free tracked shipping on all orders within mainland EU. Orders to remote areas such as Malta, Cyprus, and Iceland may incur a surcharge. Worldwide shipping is also available—please contact us for a quote.

Most orders dispatch within one business day (Monday to Friday). EU delivery takes 3–5 working days from dispatch, and tracking details will be provided via email once your order has shipped.

Please note that import taxes may apply outside the EU, and these are the responsibility of the buyer. Some items may ship directly from our suppliers and may have varying delivery times. If an item is out of stock, we will contact you to discuss the available options.

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RETURNS

Changed your mind? You can return unused, uninstalled items in original packaging within 30 days of delivery. Return shipping is the customer’s responsibility unless the item is faulty.

Custom, used, or built-to-order items are non-returnable.

Once we receive and inspect your return, refunds are typically processed within 10 business days.

If your item is damaged or incorrect, contact us within 48 hours with photos and order details.

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WARRANTY

All VA and VA Motorsports products come with a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects and fitment issues. For third-party items, warranty terms vary by brand—please check the product listing or contact us for details.

This warranty does not cover wear and tear, incorrect installation, cosmetic damage, labor, or third-party costs.

To start a claim, email us with your order number, issue description, and photos. If the claim is approved, we’ll offer a replacement, store credit, or a refund.

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ZRP BMW M5 E34 S38B38 Connecting Rods
ZRP BMW M5 E34 S38B38 Connecting Rods