[Eagledriver]

You are correct about the side clearance. The ring end gap is the "hole" that is left between the ends of the ring when it is in the cylinder bore. It is measured with a feeler guage. The ring must be square in the cylinder to get an accurate reading. I put the rings in near the top of the cylinder where the maximum wear is to see if the rings are still in spec. If you are using new rings then you should check them further down to make sure they are not too tight where the cylinder is not as worn.

-Andy