Pontiac piston ring installation

The following steps are based on Manley and SpeedPro pistons and rings as used by the writer, and based on the respective installation instructions of the piston and ring manufacturer. While the installation procedure and positions are common across most piston and rings makes and usage type, the end gaps may vary. In this case always refer to the instructions supplied with the piston rings you purchase.

1. File fit rings sets require filing of the top and 2nd rings to achieve the correct end gap. To properly measure the ring gap, the ring should be square in the bore 1” down from the deck. Measure the ring end gap with a feeler gauge or equivalent device. Calculate the recommended ring end gap from the chart below.

 

Application

Top Ring

Second Ring

Oil Ring

Street / Strip / circle

Bore x .0045″

Bore x .0035″

Min. .015″

Nitrous up to 150hp

Bore x .006″

Bore x .0045″

Min. .015″

Nitrous over 150hp

Bore x .008″

Bore x .0055″

Min. .015″

Blown Gas *

Bore x .0055″

Bore x .0035″

Min. .015″

Blown Alcohol*

Bore x .0045″

Bore x .0035″

Min. .015″

Blown Nitrous*

Bore x .0055″

Bore x .0035″

Min. .015″

2. A proper ring gap filing tool must be used, such as those listed at Summit Racing. Ring filing should be done in an inward direction and square to the sides of the ring. Must de-burr all edges after filing.

 

3. Correct ring installation is critical. When the top and 2nd ring has a dot, install dot side up. Unmarked top rings with a inner bevel install with bevel up. Unmarked 2nd rings with inner bevel install with bevel down. Narrow rings (1.0/1.2mm) that aren’t marked or beveled can be installed with either side up. Do not overlap the ends of the oil ring expander. See orientation diagram.

Pontiac Piston Ring Positions

 

4. Ring to piston groove back clearance should be  a minimum of .005” deeper than the radial wall dimension of the piston ring. The piston ring should not stick out of the groove by any amount. Ring groove side clearance should be a minimum of .0015” to a maximum of .0030”.

 

5. When included, the oil rail supports are installed on the bottom of the oil ring groove underneath the oil rail. The oil rail supports feature a special protruding dimple to prevent rotation of the oil rail support and the protruding dimple should be installed facing the bottom of the piston. This dimple should be positioned directly in line with the piston pin. Keep the oil rail support gap 90° from the piston pin bore opening.