Hastings ring set 533

[Bolts]

I'm fitting the rings on the pistons on my 59AB engine.

The Hastings 533 set is a 4 ring set. One of the oil rings is cast/slotted.

The installation instructions are vague, but it appears that the 3 piece oil ring goes in the third groove and the cast/slotted ring goes in the bottom groove.

Does anyone know if this is correct?
Does it matter if the oil rings are switched?

[Ol' Ron]

Yes, that's correct, I don't use the bottom ring. But, if you think it best do it. The 3 piece ring is sued in modern engines and works very well. the bottom ring just add more drag.

[Jack E/NJ]

x2 ^^ Jack E/NJ

[Bolts]

Thank you.

[40 Deluxe]

I agree with Ol' Ron. The 4th ring is old technology not needed with a modern 3 piece oil ring. Some have the mistaken idea that the 4th ring somehow stabilizes the piston. (It doesn't!)

[Fourdy]

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So if I understand it - - - all my heros here are saying that I can remove the bottom ring of my pistons as I re-assemble my block that was was torn completely down for a complete re-cleaning. (on going heating problem I've posted about) Less than 3000 miles and the machinist has advised to put it all back together with a light refreshing of cyl. honing. I will notice the difference or not?

Thanks to all of you.

Fourdy

[Jack E/NJ]

>>>I will notice the difference or not?>>>

Well, before you put it all back together, you could check to see if you feel any friction difference between sliding a piston in a hole with 3 rings vs 4 rings. Jack E/NJ

[rotorwrench]

I would recommend using all four rings if the cylinders are not bored with fresh pistons. Uneven bores will do better with all four. There is extra drag but you also want the best oil control you can get.