Evinrude 9.9, I keep breaking the rings

[domaotc]

Hi, I'm trying to put my my 1982 evinrude powerhead back together and I keep breaking the lower ring. I have a ring compressor and one of the pistons slides back in with no problem but I have already broken 2 rings trying to get the other one in. The piston slides in no problem if the rings are not installed so I don't think there is anything wrong with the piston or the cylinder walls. Can I use the spare top ring in the lower groove or is that a no-no? Can I buy the lower ring only? I've only been able to find them in pairs.

 

[racerone]

You do not use an automotive ring compressor for this job.--------Use your fingers and a small screwdriver to work the rings into the cylinder.----I do this all the time.------Of it is an original piston you can not use the upper ring in the lower groove !!!!

 

[boobie]

Have you got the rings aligned with the locating pin in the piston ?? Post a pic of the ring compressor you're using. There is a trick for using any ring compressor.

 

[boobie]

If you know how to use an automotive ring compressor it's easy. I've used one for 49 some odd years plus.

 

[domaotc]

Here is the type of compressor I'm using:
http://www.bhg.com/shop/se-tools-se-tools-10-piston-ring-compressor-p538d6609e4b08e1aaab174ef.html
It works fine on one piston and I'm thinking maybe the lower groove isn't as clean as it could be on the other? I guess my biggest problem is a if I have to buy another set of rings for $25 I may as well replace the rings and piston for $40 with something from these guys:
http://shop.tsmperformance.net/Pist...inrude-99-15hp-2188-1974-1992-TS-100-101K.htm
Unless someone knows where I can buy a single lower ring for cheap money.

 

[racerone]

I have that type of ring compressor but do bot use it on outboards.------I have made many of the tapered factory type installation tools as well.-----Putting a 9.9 block together tomorrow and will use fingers and small screw driver.---Nothing to it at all.