Installing rings

[Bullet Bob]

I have a new set of pistons and I need to install the rings. Is it worth the effort and expense to get the more expensive (~$50) piston ring tool that better supports the ring as it is expanded, or is the $4.99 tool sufficient?

[afterburn 549]

did mine just fine w.o. said 50.00 tool

[Rex Walter]

Bullet Bob,

Just use your fingers. I don't have my book with me, but I believe that Wayne suggests using your fingers, and that worked well for me. There isn't very much tension on the rings, and you can easily spread them with your fingers. I liked the control, as you only want to spread them enough to install them, and no more (they will break).

Rex

[JeremyD]

To put the rings on the pistons I would use your fingers.

[911pcars]

In lieu of fingers. which could result in ring distortion if not careful, Lisle sells a ring installation tool that's fairly inexpensive ($10-$15?). You don't have to spend $50. They also make a take-apart ring compressor which you'll also need (although fingers have been known to compress them as well).

Sherwood

[David]

Fingers

[ChrisBennet]

For under 98mm I use fingers. For 98mm and above I feel more comfortable using a cheap (bluepoint?) articulated one that supports the rings a little better.
-Chris

[Jay Auskin]

If you're wearing nitrile/latex gloves, the corner of the piston ring can get cought on them, so be careful.

I bought my ring expander at Sears....probably was the Lisle one. Very easy to control and expand "just enough" to install on piston.

[Eagledriver]

I slip the rings on using a very thin shim on the ends to keep them from digging into the pistons. Fingers with the shims (can use a 004 feeler blade).

-Andy

[sammyg2]

I used a $6 tool I bought from Poop boys back in my serious horsepower drag racing days, worked just fine.