Hi Dave, I would suggest giving Continental a call with your question.
While I don't know anything specific about your Atlas rods, in my very early Continental Parts Book it says the rods were "NOT SOLD" and in the later one there were no part numbers listed. Part numbers ARE mentioned in the Overhaul Manual, as is the fact that each rod and end cap was a single steel alloy forging later cut and machined. Supposedly the number of the cylinder in which a given rod is installed is stamped on the bottom (at least at one time). The FAA would also be logical to check with as to acceptable FAA-PMA parts (such as Superior cylinders for Continental engines). Another question I would pose to each of the above...During the war it was common practice for other manufacturers to produce aircraft and engines (and presumably parts therefor) to specifications provided by the war department...examples being Corsair gull-winged fighters designed by Vought that were manufactured by Goodyear in Arizona and Merlin engines for Mustangs that were manufactured here under license by Packard. In such scenario, such parts providers might have been required to identify their particular contribution(s). Continental engine designs were utilized as military air-cooled ground power units, many of which were sold military surplus (sometimes brand new in crates) after the war. It would be my guess that ground power unit Continental parts would not be considered "airworthy" to use in one of our engines even if within allowable service specifications. Presumably there would be some method of identifying such parts. Do share with us what you learn, WRB -- On Jan 9, 2010, at 21:15, [email protected] wrote: > Gang, > > We pulled the jugs on my engine to check rings and valves after low > comprerssion on #2 and #3. We decided to pull the connecting rods and > check the bearings while we were at it, and the rods were not stamped > with the part number in the Continental Engine Parts Catalog. > Instead, they are stamped ATLAS 5401. Has anyone had any experience > with these rods? I believe Atlas was a TCM supplier prior to 1998. > We're just trying to confirm that these rods are an authorized part. > > Thanks, > Dave
