piston rings

[Beean123]

Hello xs650ers, would someone tell me how to set the piston ring gaps, i understand the rings are to be turned away from each gap, im sure there must be a certain way my book isnt real clear on where to put the gaps, Thank u

 

[azman857]

I put the top 3 rings 120 degree's apart. and the 2 oil control rings 180 degrees apart, but inline with any of the other 3.

 

[alfredo]

I just opposed each 180º. Not sure if that was right, but it's what I would do for regular car engines and it works fine.

 

[azman857]

The most important thing is not to have the gaps all in or close inline. Spread the gaps around.

 

[5twins]

Instructions should be printed on the piston ring box. I don't recall exactly but it's something like staggered 120° but none over the piston pin ends. You space the gaps on the 3 pc. oil ring something like 2cm apart.

 

[Jezuz]

Make sure that you got correct gap with all rings, ring gap position is irrelevant because rings rotate when engine is running!

 

[5twins]

Yes, the rings can rotate during use but you should stagger them during install none the less. That's just normal assembly procedure for any engine.

 

[Jezuz]

I put gaps on opposite sides but thats just a habit, all pro builders that i know say that it doesent matter how you put gaps.