Mahle or Kolbenschmidt?
 

I have a set of pistons and a fellow asked if they are Mahle or Kolbenschmidt. They are 3.0 US spec pistons.

Can't find anything on the piston sides or bottom that says either Mahle or Kolbenschmidt.

How do I tell them apart?

thanks!
angela

I believe Mahle made mostly Nikasil cylinders for Porsche and Kolbenschmidt made the cheaper Alusil cylinders. If you do a search I know there are theories about a differing number of fins on the cylinders between the Nikasil and Alusil cylinders. Also, I believe the Nikasil is slightly magnetic, Alusil is not. I'm sure others who know more than I will chime in here.

Thank you for the information, but this is regarding the pistons themselves, not the cylinders. The cylinders have found their way into a most worthy project of my own.

The pistons do have a discreet M9 stamped on the top.

angela

Send a PM to John Walker.
Good luck

Hello Angela.

The pistons will have KS or a cross cast into them inside if they are KS..

Kind regards
David

They have neither a cross nor a KS on them - thank you for your help! Mahle it is! SmileWavy

angela