Piston Rings: Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Intrepid, 2003 Chrysler Intrepid, and 2003 Chrysler Concorde. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Measure clearance of piston rings to the cylinder bore and piston. (Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE - PISTON RING FITTING ).
- The No. 1 and No. 2 piston rings have a different cross section. Ensure No. 2 ring is installed with manufacturers I.D. mark (dot) facing up, towards top of the piston (Fig 1).CAUTION: Install piston rings in the following order:
- Oil ring expander.
- Upper oil ring side rail.
- Lower oil ring side rail.
- No. 2 Intermediate piston ring.
- No. 1 Upper piston ring.
- Install the side rail by placing one end between the piston ring groove and the expander. Hold end firmly and press down the portion to be installed until side rail is in position. Do not use a piston ring expander during this step (Fig 2).
- Install upper side rail first and then the lower side rail.
- Install No. 2 piston ring and then No. 1 piston ring (Fig 3).
- Position piston ring end gaps as shown in (Fig 4).
- Position oil ring expander gap at least 45° from the side rail gaps but not on the piston pin center or on the thrust direction. Staggering ring gap is important for oil control.