3PG Piston Rings - Install Question

[Workstead]

I am trying to put my 3PG top end back together. I have never done anything like this before.

How can one person get the two engine parts together? I can't seem to squeeze the rings together so I can slide the cylinder over the piston.

Is there a special tool needed or maybe just another person, one to squeeze and one to slide the two sections together?

Clem

[ruredy]

they do have a ring compressor that'll open up so you can take it off the rod/piston after the top part of the pistons in the cylinder. i've never used one but I did see one once. I always use my fingers, make sure the ring gap is in the pin that's in the piston groove. they can only fit in one certian position on the piston

[wrenflyer]

Nevermind

[ruredy]

Originally Posted by wrenflyer

Run to your local auto parts store and pick up a ring compressor.

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/cat...uestid=1467149

Make sure and follow the direction usually included with the rings so that they are installed correctly. Normally the side of the ring with a mark goes up. Stagger the rings with opening 180 degrees apart and the gaps near the piston pin.

This won't work!!! don't do this!!!!

[wrenflyer]

Never mind

[wrenflyer]

Never mind

[Workstead]

Originally Posted by wrenflyer

Is this a 2 cycle with the one piece cylinder?

Yes, the 3PG is a 2 cycle engine with a 1 piece cylinder.

Each ring gap has to straddle a tit in the ring gap that are about 45 degrees apart around the circumference of the piston.

[ruredy]

Originally Posted by wrenflyer

Is this a 2 cycle with the one piece cylinder?

yes, the only way to use that ring compressor is to remove the piston from the rod, then you loose the little clip (that holds the piston pin in) down inside the crankcase trying to put the piston and jug back on. the piston has pins in the groove to space the ring gap apart the correct amount

[wrenflyer]

Sorry about that guys, I work on small engines for a living and I get stuck in the standard 4-cycle frame of mind.....Just trying to help.

[Workstead]

Originally Posted by wrenflyer

I have loaded the piston into the jug leaving the piston pin exposed. Lower onto the rod and install pin. Then assemble the jug to the crankcase.

Here's a ring compressor if we're talking about this kind of cylinder:

http://www.brandsplace.com/0246-kd-850.html

I can see where it would be easier to slip the piston pin into the piston when it is in the cylinder than try to get the rings into their grooves while holding the heavy cylinder above the piston.

I think I will try this method.

Thanks for the link, I may not need this if I am successful using the above method.

Clem