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Message: [QUOTE="kleake, post: 1505231, member: 25987"] Yes, I reused my stock rods. All checked out ok with no issues. Most of the time if you take it apart, install new bearings and gaskets then you won't have any issues going back together. When you start swapping out from OEM and go aftermarket is where you need to start inspecting closer. A lot of people don't check much of anything and come out just fine, others check everything with a fine toothed comb. I usually land in the middle. I'm not looking to modify a bunch of stuff and squeeze every ounce of power so things aren't as critical, but I am definitely not sloppy. I have a pretty decent set of tools (Fast times at Ridgmont High comes to mind), but not like a Ford mechanic would have. Torque wrench, feeler guages, plastigage and you are in pretty good shape. A couple of special tools for the front and rear main seals on these and the rest is just a good set of sockets and wrenches. These diesels do work a little different from gassers so if you take that into consideration, and keep everything as clean as possible then it's not that bad. I am actually pretty impressed at the engineering in these things. Nothing had to be forced into place, hammered on or tweaked,,,,, it all just goes together like a big puzzle. I remember lots of old school motors that needed a lot of silicon or wiggling to get things to seal up right. Patience is key for sure. I spent all weekend assembling the rest of the engine, setting it back on the frame and bolting everything up. Now i'm waiting on the weather to clear so I can roll it outside and manouver it back under the cab. That will likely come this weekend, but i'll go over everything again before I take that step. Forget the wrong bolt, and it can create a big headache. [/QUOTE]