Piston Ring Remover, installer

[SteveT]

Was wondering if I need the special piston ring installer, I am putting new rings on.........do I need the special tool, or can i just slip them over the top of the piston(Like I removed the old ones).
Thanks for the reply, Steve '81sc

[Doug Zielke]

I have a MAC Tools piston ring expander, bought at an auction, that I've never used. Will have to try it someday, but I've never broken a ring yet using my fingers. Just take your time, and don't open them up any more than it takes to slip 'em on.

[zuffenhausen]

Nah, you don't need the tool. Last engine class I took the instructor handed each student a piston and a set of rings to put on. Just be careful with them.

-zuff

[john walker's workshop]

a little tape on the thumbs eases the pain if you're thin skinned. mind the directions for up and down.

[stevef]

I originally bought a $10 expander and used it on my rings, equally easy was to just expand them with my fingers. The only comfort I got from using the expander was that I didn't risk scoring the piston side with the sharp ends of the ring if I wasn't paying attention or as John said, the pain on the end of my thumbs became too much. I have a low pain threshold!

[Wayne 962]

An expander is cheap and easy. I've gotten along without one, but it's always nice to have the right tool...

-Wayne