where to get con rod bolts

[stephan]

Do you mean VW didn't have any at their local branch, or that they are obsolete?
Guess what, VW don't stock every part for every VW at every branch.
they have a massive wharehouse in the midlands where it's all shipped out from, and if they don't have it there is an even bigger one in germany.
So, VW may not have any at your local branch but can they get any in for you?

one of my best mates works at VW TPS and he had a good old look, they are obsolete as of jan on the database.

i did however manage to get two sets from the USA brand new for less than one set in the UK. worth having spare at that price.

[Laurie]

There are 2 types of rod bolt, >86 and 2.1 and 86> and 2.1. The late one is fitted with a non shouldered nut and a longer thread on the bolt.

The long thread bolt is tightened to 30 ft lbs and 1/3 turn. Even second hand, they're good for 6,000 rpm

If you have the long thread bolt, don't worry and if you have the earlier one, don't worry either. I've seen dropped rod engines where the rod has broken, not the bolts!