The connecting rod connects the crankshaft and the _______.

Explanation:

Connecting rod:

• It is fitted in between the piston and crankshaft.
• It converts the reciprocating motion of the piston to the rotary motion in the crankshaft.
• It must be light and strong enough to withstand stress and twisting forces.

Construction:

• The connecting rod is made of high-grade alloy steel.
• It is drop-forged to an ‘I’ shape.
• In some engines aluminum alloy connecting rods are also used.
• The upper end of the connecting rod has a hole for the piston pin.
• The lower end of the connecting rod is split so that the connecting rod can be installed on the crankshaft.
• The top and bottom halves of the lower end of the connecting rod are bolted together on the big end journal of the crankshaft, by bolt and nut.
• A large bearing area is provided to take the load, heat, and wear.
• The split halves are usually fitted with Babbit bearings or bearing lining steel-backed copper lead.
• In the upper end of the connecting rod, a bronze bush is fixed.
• The small end of the connecting rod is connected to the piston by means of a piston pin.
• In some engines, a hole is drilled in the connecting rods from the big end to the small end.
• It allows oil to flow from the big end to the small end bush.