I'm currently saving for engine internals for my zetec turbo and was wondering if i really need forged rods.
I dont intend to go mental on it, probs aiming for the 200bhp mark, do i really need to replace the rods or can i get away with just having them shot peened?

 

Can't the Zetec manage 200 bhp on a standard bottom end? Should be fine on standard rods.

 

Bottom ends are capable of around 500bhp iirc. Not sure on the rods though, I'd get forged ones though, just incase. And I doubt you'll stop at 200bhp, everyone needs more power! haha

 

90% of the time pistons and rods go because of bad mapping. I'd keep a standard bottom end then if it does go. You haven't lost as much money as if you'd got fancy pistons and rods and spent lots of money prepairing the block.