I did a lot of thinking about the issue of the Rod Bender along with some pretty smart fellows and believe the issue was more due to the block being compromised by the larger bore of the 3.5 version. The flexibility of the block would precipitate partial failure of the head gasket allowing in enough liquid until the rod is bent by a partial hydrolock.

it only takes a bit over a teaspoon of liquid in the combustion chamber to fill it and cause partial hydrolock.

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.