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In Stock - Available from Supplier Dispatch between 22 December - 29 December.

The ZRP BMW M5 M6 E34 S38B36 HD Series Connecting Rods are built for engines that rely on strength you can trust. The 3.5-litre M5 and 3.6-litre M6 S38 engines place real demand on the bottom end, especially as power rises or components age. When the load increases, the connecting rods carry the responsibility, and this is where a reinforced design starts to make sense.

ZRP forms each I-beam rod from premium 4340 high-tensile steel, shaped to support high cylinder pressure while keeping the rotating mass under control. The design suits the S38’s long stroke and steady torque delivery, where balance matters as much as strength. At the small end, AMPCO 18 bronze bushings resist wear and fatigue, and a radial oil groove works as a small reservoir that supports consistent lubrication as revs build.

After machining, the rods are shot peened to relieve surface stress and then treated through a multi-stage heat process that increases structural stability. The results show in use. Oil clearances stay consistent. Bend and twist remain tightly controlled. Once installed, the rotating assembly feels settled, which brings confidence when the engine works through sustained load.

Each rod set includes ARP 2000 cap fasteners rated at 220,000 psi, with an option to upgrade to ARP L19 bolts rated at 260,000 psi for higher output builds. ARP moly lubricant and full fitting instructions are supplied, making installation straightforward for experienced engine builders.

For BMW M5 and M6 E34 owners strengthening an S38B36, these ZRP HD Series connecting rods provide a dependable foundation. They support durability, protect critical components, and help the engine deliver power with the calm, mechanical feel these cars are known for.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Brand

Shape

I-Beam

Material

High Tensile Steel 4340

Length

144.00mm

Small End

22.00mm

Bolt Size

3/8"

Application

3.5L M5 & M6 S38

Big End

52.00mm

B.E Width

23.90mm

Set Of

6

Discplacement

3.5L

Pin Size

22.00mm

Series

Engine

3.6L – S38B36

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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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 M6 E34 S38B36 HD Series Connecting Rods
ZRP BMW M5 M6 E34 S38B36 HD Series Connecting Rods