Problem with piston rings?

[cvlngineer]

I have only removed the head so far, but there is a small amount of side to side play on the pistons. There is only a little, like the rings are sliding in their grooves on the piston head. What does this mean, new rings?<br /><br />Thanks,<br />cvlngineer

 

[petryshyn]

Re: Problem with piston rings?

That sounds normal. Its the ring end butt clearance and cylinder wall condition that should concern you......

 

[cvlngineer]

Re: Problem with piston rings?

Thanks, schematic. The cylinder walls look good, and I will have to check the rings. The compression was good before teardown, and I have heard the old saying,"if it ain't broke, don't fix it." Maybe I should just leave the rings alone.<br /><br />cvlngineer

 

[Hooty]

Re: Problem with piston rings?

Why would you do that? If you're in there, replace the rings. They're not that expensive, and get the cylinders honed also.<br /><br />c/6<br /><br />Hooty

 

[Walker]

Re: Problem with piston rings?

Me personally, I would leave pistons and rings as they are. As old as that motor is I bet the cylinders are out of round and your present rings fit them as they are. Just be sure to get each piston back in the same hole it came from.

 

[G DANE]

Re: Problem with piston rings?

cvlngineer<br /><br />not to insult you, but be aware to turn the pistons right when assembling.

 

[Walker]

Re: Problem with piston rings?

The piston rod also have a small hole on one side at the wristpin end. The side with the hole goes facing the top of the engine.

 

[cvlngineer]

Re: Problem with piston rings?

I got the crankcase open and removed the crankshaft and the pistons. I marked the rods so I could get them back just the way they were. I then had the cylinders checked and honed. They were still round, so I am preparing to order parts. I will replace upper and lower main bearings, middle main bearings, rod bearings, wristping bearins and gaskets. It is going to cost me between $300 and $400 for the parts. <br /><br />The cylinder-piston head clearance is right on the maximum tolerance, but I can't afford to have the cylinders bored out and get oversized pistons.<br /><br />Thanks,<br />cvlngineer