Robert Loftis, General Manager of Eagle, is very high on their new ESP Armor, a revolutionary new surface finishing process developed exclusively by Eagle. The exact process is a closely guarded secret, but we do know that it does not use any chemicals or electrolysis-type processes. Robert was adamant, “It is also not a coating. It is not chrome!”

When I looked at the display cranks and rods, I thought they were chrome. The finish is truly amazing as it is literally a mirror finish. Looking at the journal is like looking at your reflection in the mirror! Pictures just don’t do it justice (have you ever tried to photograph a mirror?). You have to see it first-hand to really appreciate it. Something else you’ll appreciate is the one-year warranty that Eagle is offering on parts with ESP Armor, even parts for race applications!

The mirror-smooth surface is slicker than other similar products, so it slings the oil better. On a crank journal you want the crank surface to glide easily on the oil film. The smoother surface reduces the “handles” for any fluid to hang on to, including moisture. For that reason, corrosion resistance is greatly improved with ESP Armor. This slick surface also reduces stress risers, which are convenient places for cracks to start.

ESP Armor has been in development at Eagle for three years. Their first test, on a 383 small-block Chevy, netted a peak gain of 16.5 horsepower at 5200 rpm and moderate gains across the working rpm range. That’s almost a 4% peak gain in power. Same bearings, same everything! The only thing that changed was that the crank underwent ESP Armor. They treat the whole surface of the crank, not just the journals like micro-polishing does.

For a price of only $175 for a crankshaft or $99 for a set of eight rods (1 year warranty included), there is no reason why every crankshaft and connecting rod set shouldn’t take advantage of this awesome ESP Armor.