=The Connecting Rod= on an engine is the connection between the
cross-head and crank-pin; it is generally made of wrought iron or
steel, with brass boxes at each end held in position by wrought straps.
These straps are attached to the connecting rod by gibs and keys.
Connecting rods are sometimes made with mortised ends to receive the
brass boxes, which are held in place by wedge block and adjusting
screw. The latter style is used principally on the larger makes of
engines. While the connecting rod with mortised ends are considered a
little the safest, the straps on the ends of rods are most commonly
used. The brass boxes at ends of connecting rod are adjustable to take
up the wear by use of the gibs and keys, and they should be adjusted as
frequently as there is any lost motion discovered at the crank-pin or
cross-head, which will be indicated by a knocking or pounding as the
crank passes over the centers.
[Illustration: Connecting Rod.]