[SFfiredog]

Ant,
I only have read and seen the Roller X lifters, I haven't run any in an engine yet. I always try to refrain from positive or negative comments on any product unless I have actually used it, but I have heard good things about them so far.
As far as con rods are concerned, it depends on the application.
On lower horsepower, or shorter stroke engines (engines without high piston speed) I use Scat or Eagle rods and have had no problems as long as the rods are sized properly for bearing clearance. For mid level engines I like the Oliver Forged rods. The Oliver forged rods are very good and very comparable in price.
For example, let's say you get a set of Eagle rods for $450.00.
Add in the ARP 2000 rod bolts for another $140.00 and re-size the big ends and you are almost into the price of the Oliver rods which are lighter. For higher horsepower or big stroke (high piston speeds) I like Oliver billet rods.
--Mike