Tuscan connecting rods represent the leading edge of technology for bottom end strength, reliability, and lightweight. Our Engineering staff utilizes the most modern technology to optimize these rods to a level never before seen at the enthusiast level. Give your engine a reliably strong connecting rod set that is rated for engines up to 1000BHP!

• Unique I-beam design offers incredible bending and torsional stiffness
• Includes IE spec arp 2000 rod bolts with "IE" stamp to ensure a genuine product
• Application specific design optimized for Audi i5 engines
• Industry leading connecting rod strength to weight ratio
• Honed to exacting tolerances within 250 millionths of an inch
• Forced pin oiling (rifle drilling) provides long wrist pin longevity
• Each connecting rod set is balanced to weights within +/- 1 gram
• Forged from vacuum drawn 2 piece 4340 chrome moly steel
• Dimensionally and magnaflux inspected for extreme reliability
• Combination tested to over 1000bhp
• Multi-stage heat treated for dimensional stability and fatigue life

Designed Through Technology

IE's Tuscan connecting rod sets for the Audi 10V/20V I5 engines are the best rods available for your European engine due to quality, custom application specific design, and thorough testing. Each Tuscan design is different from any other design because they are custom-crafted and optimized by our engineers using the latest CAD and FEA software. This is in contrast to the industry standard which simply resizes standard designs to fit new engines. Each application is rigorously tested in our in-house engine test cell. We have gone the extra mile to design specific big ends for each application, keeping the bearing in place and reducing chances of failures. This results in a connecting rod that is uniquely strong and light, for the ultimate in performance and reliability.

Application Specific Engineering

Each model is detailed out with a unique feature set that ensures proper operation within the unique demands of that engine. There is a particular emphasis placed on providing a stable foundation for the connecting rod bearing. By providing a stable platform for the rod bearing, much higher reliability is possible. For that reason, the feature set is not consistent across all models of IE Tuscan rods.

Torture Tested Reliability

IE Tuscan rods for turbocharged applications feature a robust I-Beam design for incredible bending and torsional stiffness. Additionally, an extensive iterative process leads to the unique Egg shape of our rod beams, which lowers stresses as much as 20% compared to less evolved designs. This shape very evenly distributes the high compressive loading from a turbocharged engine onto the connecting rod beam. We then validated this success with over 18 months of field testing, powering numerous VW / Audi engines with over 1000 bhp! In addition to being tough, IE Tuscan rods are also designed to minimize unnecessary weight on the connecting rod for an ultra-balanced weight to strength ratio.  Our engineering staff has spent countless hours trimming the fat- leaving exactly what is needed to get the reliability you want, with the weight you don't. 

Finished And Quality Controlled In USA

This level of attention to detail is mirrored in the manufacturing details as well. Each set of Tuscan connecting rods are honed in the USA to tolerances of around 250 millionths of an inch! This ensures amazing bearing reliability you really cannot find elsewhere in this price range. These rods are as round and true as any rods money can buy. 

10V/20V I5 with OEM & aftermarket pistons Engine Codes: 3B, 7A, AAN, ABY, ADU, KV, NG, NM

Including

• Audi C4 S4 Quattro 20v T
• Audi C4 S6 Quattro 20v T

Compatible Pistons

• OEM Audi 5 cylinder 20mm wrist pin 10v & 20v pistons
• Aftermarket performance 20mm wrist pin 10v & 20v pistons

Compatible Bearings

• Calico/ACL performance coated rod bearings - Part Number: CAL-4B1606HC5

IERTVM1

Manufactured by

Integrated Engineering (IE)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are these are a direct replacement for my factory rods?

These rods fit specific Audi inline 5 cylinder vehicles when used with OEM or aftermarket 20mm wrist pin pistons. See the Fitment tab for a complete list of applications. 

Is there a proper orientation to install the bearing tangs on our connecting rods?

We recommend installing the bearings tangs facing the exhaust side of the engine.

Are these connecting rods forged?

Yes, all Integrated Engineering Connecting Rods are made from tough and durable 4340 forgings. These forgings far exceed the quality of most factory rods that are typically made from powdered metal as a cost-saving measure. 

Do these rods require any additional machine work for installation?

IE connecting rods are delivered to you in "ready to install" condition. Other engine machine work may be required though when rebuilding an engine, such as decking the block or boring and honing cylinder walls.

Is balancing the engine required when installing these connecting rods?

Since IE rods are sold in balanced sets this is not required. For extreme performance application, this can still be done if desired.

What is the maximum RPM limit of these rods?

The maximum RPM limit can be affected by many factors. In this application, we suggest not exceeding 8500 RPM with ARP 2000 bolts. If you plan on exceeding this RPM level, consider upgrading to ARP 625+ bolts.

When should I upgrade to ARP 625+ rod bolts?

Generally speaking, high RPM conditions put the most stress on rod bolts as the rod and cap are literally being pulled in opposite directions. If you plan on pushing your engine far past factory redline or 8500 RPM  we would suggest upgrading to 625+ ARP bolts.  

Do I need rifle drilling?

Rifle drilling is not required. However, we do strongly recommend it for a daily driver and/or high mileage applications. Rifle drilling has been proven to extend wrist pin and bushing life and has also been utilized over the years in several VW/Audi factory connecting rods.

What are the most common reasons for connecting rod failure?

As one of the highest stressed components in the engine, there are several things that can contribute to a failure. The most common failure is caused by improper installation followed by improper tuning. We recommend that you seek professional help for both installation and tuning. Oiling system health is also essential to ensuring safe engine operation. Momentary oil starvation can result in spun rod bearings and engine failure. In extreme applications also be sure that you are using heavy duty wrist pins. On many of the pistons, we offer we either include stout wrist pins or offer them as an upgrade.