Ford’s 7.3-liter Godzilla engine has quickly become the pushrod of choice for many hot rodders and drag racers. The 445-cubic-inch powerhouse is robust enough to handle forced induction with minor modifications, yet it can also deliver impressive naturally aspirated numbers. However, when building the engine for big power, certain upgrades are necessary—primarily in the fasteners. To address this, ARP Bolts has designed and assembled a specialized kit. We sat down with Bryan Neelen, owner of Late Model Engines and recent builder of the EngineLabs Godzilla Giveaway, to get his thoughts on ARP’s latest offerings.
The perfect starting point for any build is a used pull-out. Late Model Engine (LME) has been crafting 7.3-liter Godzilla engines with a performance-focused mindset, allowing customers to choose their path — from naturally aspirated torque monsters to twin-turbo demons. We’ve got an N/A build coming up at LME with this take-out Godzilla and ARP fasteners, so stay tuned.
Godzilla Rising
Before diving into our conversation with Neelen, let’s first discuss how ARP offers its kits. As with most ARP products, you can purchase the individual kits: Rod Bolt Kit (P/N: 258-6301), Head Stud Kit (P/N: 258-4301), Main Stud Kit (P/N: 258-5601), Damper Bolt (P/N: 258-2501), and Flexplate Bolt Kit (P/N: 158-2901). All five fastener kits are made from renowned ARP2000 material, which is a proprietary alloy steel – heat treated to be stronger than your standard 8740 chrome-moly and capable of a 220,000psi clamp load.
Beyond the engine, many accessory fasteners on the Godzilla can be upgraded to ARP’s polished stainless steel or black oxide-finished 8740 chrome-moly bolts. These bolts are rated at 180,000 psi tensile strength, making them 20-percent stronger than Grade 8 hardware. Upgrading fasteners for components like valve covers, intake and exhaust manifolds, the front cover, and the oil pan is an ideal way to enhance both form and function.
ARP has been producing high-quality bolts since 1968, when Gary Holzapfel discovered that race engines were often failing due to fastener issues. Determined to make a change, Holzapfel set out to improve the industry. Today, we can thank Holzapfel for creating the ARP brand, which is now used in engines and chassis worldwide.
Hands-On Experience
Ford Muscle (FM): What has your experience been with ARP’s latest products for the 7.3-liter Godzilla engine?
Bryan Neelen (BN): Everything with the kits has…
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