Used pistons

[Nathan M]

What are peoples feelings about using secondhand pistons. Has anyone had any problems? I was planning on buying some used 3.2 Euro pistons until one of the engineers where I work strongly recommended against using used pistons, on the basis they've "worn" into different bores from the ones in my engine.

[ChrisBennet]

As long as the seller will let you return them, sure, give it a shot.
Measure the pistons and the cylinders you intend to use them with and return them if they aren't suitable.
Photocopy the relevant manual pages and give them to the machinist to measure. If it isn't a "Porsche" shop, you'll probably need to supply a new piston ring in order for them to measure the piston groves.
-Chris

[Wayne 962]

Originally posted by Nathan M
...on the basis they've "worn" into different bores from the ones in my engine.

I'm not sure what this means. The rings are what wears (along with the ring grooves). If the ring grooves are in-spec, then you can reuse them. Just make sure that the ring grooves are measured before you buy...

-Wayne

[Nathan M]

Great. I'll take my new rings along and measure the clearances as per the book. What's the going rate for a set of used 3.2 pistons? A place in the UK sells them for £500 per set ($800ish). This seems a lot when I've been offered a complete 3.2 engine for £1200.

Nathan

[Wayne 962]

Sounds a bit high to me. I figure low-mileage, good used pistons and cylinders should go for around $1000 +- $200.

-Wayne