Had a problem with the oil pump relief valve sticking so I had it swapped out today and we found 3 discolored rods, they look like they've turned black, and a little blue'ing on the reluctor wheel.
We checked the rod bearings from the worst 2 and they looked perfectly fine, no scouring or discoloration. The tiniest shaving of dark metal was found stuck to the magnet on the oil pan drain plug, and there was the slightest bit of gold flake glimmering in the bottom of the oil pan. The engine wasn't run for more than 60 seconds total once the oil pump failed, and sounds and idles as smooth as before.
How bad does it look from these pics? I haven't driven the car other than around the block today at 15mph, and I don't want to do more damage before I have the money to invest in rebuilding.

 

Discoloration like means it got pretty hot.. i have seen reluctor wheels like that though from where they were welded and caused it to change color alittle.. the goldish colored flakes are from the bearings, it could be the mains, rods, or the cam bearing.. if there is no noise and it still has good oil pressure id keep running it.

 

Bump. Anyone please. I searched and there's nothing on discolored rods.

 

The only connecting rods I have seen that were that discolored on the bearing end were in pieces in the oil pan..... That said if the bearings look okay, oil pressure is good and it runs okay, drive it. It's not worth a rebuild to pull a part that probably will never fail anyhow. If it's any consolation many a connecting rod have the small end very discolored in appearance from heating them with the installation of press fit pins... and don't ever fail.

Drive it.

 

I guess my answer wasnt good enough.. jk man

 

Haha no it was great thanks, exactly wut I wanted to hear, kinda. I have consistent 40psi at idle and it sounds smooth as usual

 

Then id run it man, i just wouldnt go on no cross country rides with it until you've put some miles on it and made sure it will still hold up good.