This information should help those who would like a better Con-rod for your RYOBI. I have never had a a conrod failure, but I believe it is possible. For that reason, I have been looking. I aquired several POULAN 31cc weedwhips, and the conrod impressed me. It is solid steel, but the rod journal is larger than the RYOBI, but very similiar to the RYOBI. The wrist pin is the same diameter as the RYOBI. I pressed the journal out of the POULAN crank, and devised a mount for my lathe that allows me to fasten a DREMEL TOOL on the tool holder. I used an emery stone on the DREMEL to grind the journal down to fit the RYOBI crank. I then pressed the modified journal into the RYOBI crank, using SLEEVE LOCKER for further strength. Yesterday, I put the engine back togather and with everything else stock except for electronic ignition, a 18X6-10 wood prop, I recorded 6300 RPM. I ran the engine for 15 minutes. I will dismantel the engine for inspection before I run it again to see if there are any trouble spots. I will keep those interested informed as I futher modify the engine like larger carb, further timing ect. Sorry, but I have not figured out how to put pictures on this site, however, I have taken pictures. FLATHEAD