I believe the early 216's had wider connecting rod big ends. I've got a set of the wide rods stashed away somewhere, I think. The rod bearings weren't poured originally, the Babbit was applied with a spray-welding technique with the rods spinning in a special fixture. Apparently that equipment was scrapped decades ago. Do a little research- - - -there are plenty of reconditioned rods available, including undersizes for reground crankshafts. The 216/235 splasher rods can also be bored and honed for replaceable bearings.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!