Fitting rings question
 

Fitting the rings in #1 using grant rings on a fresh honed 8BA cylinder. Got the first oil ring fit. When I got to the 2nd oil ring it has a spring inside with directions on joint placement. Tried to compress it and it’s a tight spring! I don’t remember that in the last Hastings rings I used? Is it needed?

JB

Re: Fitting rings question
 

Re: Fitting rings question
 

And for clarity, I am only questioning the spring in the 1st oil ring, not the complete oil ring. Seems like a lot of pressure and added friction.

JB

Re: Fitting rings question
 

i have to admit i've never seen nor heard of a spring loaded piston oil ring. but if history proves itself, it's either marketing hype, some kind of cost-cutting move or a combination of both. in any case probably designed to increase profits. and yes, i'm now a full-blown skeptic WRT new products.

apparently you're not the only one having problems getting it...ahem...in the hole. :) it looks as if a lack of chamfer at the top can be a problem. BTW, they are considered a high performance thing in some modern cars. rings are cheap, i would consider getting something else.

sources for forming an opinion:

https://www.speed-talk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=58601

https://forums.jag-lovers.com/t/gran...estions/369221

https://www.mtfca.com/discus/message...tml?1444089078

Re: Fitting rings question
 

Thank you sir, I have Hastings rings on the way, I am going to just use them.

JB

Re: Fitting rings question
 

Hi JB. That's a pretty common ring type in heavy duty diesel engines. Yes, the spring is necessary, but I agree with your choice of going with the rings you've ordered. The Hastings 3 pc oil ring is very good. It won't need any fitting or filing.