Piston Ring Gap Alignment

kokkolanpoika · Post by **kokkolanpoika** » Thu Jun 05, 2008 9:18 pm

Have searched around quite a bit and haven't found any definate answers for how the piston rings should be oriented when installed piston in the bore.

Engine is RV8 5200cc with ross forged pistons and total seal rings.

I have got some installation sheet. and it says that if you look at the front of engine.
1 compression ring gap should be in the left and 2nd gap positioned 180deg with that = (it be positioned in the right.)
oil ring expander gap range same as 1st compression ring gap and +- about 10deg?
top and bottom oil rings gap same side as 2nd compression ring, but positioned about 80deg with 2nd compression ring gap.

Question is? is this setup same with both side of block if i look at front of engine? I mean that, i have to always fit 1st compression ring on the left? It dosent say that. So this is the reason why i want to ask it.

I also here (our logal guru says) that best way is to set both compression ring gaps same line as wrist pin centerline, or maybe ewen better to set them about 10deg on the right. Because left side is always compression side? Is this true?

Any ideas?

Sorry my poor English.

Post by **katanaman** » Thu Jun 05, 2008 10:08 pm

I never bother where the gaps are in relation to the block or any other piston. The important thing is the gaps are evenly spaced from each other on the same piston.

sidecar · Post by **sidecar** » Fri Jun 06, 2008 5:53 am

I've read that the rings will actually rotate at about 1 RPM round the piston when the engine is running at 6K RPM so I doubt that the angle between the gaps remains the same as when you build the engine.

Pete

Boosted LS1 · Post by **Boosted LS1** » Fri Jun 06, 2008 9:19 pm

The rings do rotate around the pistons. Ring gap position is supposed to be for breakin but I just space them so they are at different positions. Never had a problem and being to technical probably makes zero difference. Just give it some revs when you start it

stevieturbo · Post by **stevieturbo** » Wed Jun 11, 2008 7:37 pm

Follow the manufacturers instructions. There is only one front of the engine, so ring gap locations are very specific on these instructions.

Dont be fooled into thinking you just have 2 in-line 4 cylinder engines in front of you....Well, you do, but they are reversed...sort of.

kokkolanpoika · Post by **kokkolanpoika** » Wed Jun 11, 2008 8:17 pm

Thanks for info..

I will follow the manufacturers instructions..