I don't know where you can get rods converted for $200. I bought a set of rods from someone that had been machined for inserts for $100, (boy did I score big on that one) they were all within 1 gram of each other except for one that was 40 grams off. It had a completely different casting number. However I had 1 rod of that number in a box of parts, so I took it to a local machine shop that had a very good reputation, (as it turns out it was the FATHER that had the reputation, not the son who is running the place into the ground.) Where it was promptly ruined by grinding the sides off for whatever reason, so not only was I out the only rod that matched the ones I had, he only charged me $50 for the privelege. So I sent the 4 best rods I had to Egge to get machined at $40 a shot to try and match weight. I had new bolts for the rods, that after they were installed I had to take the rods to the machine shop one more time to get the holes round again. Which only cost $140 more. (lesson learned: install the bolts you are actually going use in the rods BEFORE having them machined for inserts, it does make a difference) Not to mention the 2 or 3 months in time it cost me. So although I think I am happy with the end result (I really don't know as it still isn't running. The exhaust valves seized up and ruined my cam as well, and now my cam is lost somewhere between here and arizona) it wasn't easy, or cheap. (considerably more than $200) Hopefully anyone can learn from my experience, which is Pretty much there won't be a machine shop except for Egge, or Kanter that will have the slightest clue as to what to do with your rods, and if you do, you won't find anyone to do it cheaper. And if anyone has even slightly followed the story of my engine, I am starting to think the almighty is trying to give me a hint, I have been sent through the wringer for about 3 years now...And it is still sitting in pieces.
