how much power will stock rods survive?

With stronger, lighter aftermarket rods available so cheaply nowadays, there's no reason to use factory pieces except for a cruiser. With the money invested in a motor today, to scrimp on rods is crazy. Ask anybody who has grenaded a motor and they'll tell you that a rod let go. Buy yourself a nice set of lightweight pistons, too. For the extra $200-$300 you will have a longer lasting piece. When you think about it, most people run a motor for probably 4-5 years. if you divide that extra cash by 5 years, its peanuts per year for the better parts.

don