Piston Rings 101 - Part 3 - Ring End Gaps & File Fitting Piston Rings

In part 3 of the Piston Rings 101 video series, Lake Speed Jr. shows us how to determine the proper piston ring end gap and how to file fit the piston ring to achieve the proper end gap. Filmed on location at LN Engineering, this video details using the end gap factor chart to calculate the proper end gap for each engine application (there's a difference between a naturally aspirated engine and turbocharged engine). Lake also demonstrates the use of a ring squaring tool, feeler gauge and power ring filer.
For more videos on piston rings, check out LN Engineering's series on this topic: • Piston Ring 101 with T...

[@brentonk461]

The Chart is great to follow for general applications for beginners, or if you're not sure where to start. when you're get good at it, you use your own formula to work out The End Gap. Don't assume that because you have a fancy machine to grind your ring gaps, that the End gap is going to be Parallel, that takes care and experience.

[@TotalSeal]

Totally agree!

[@2discoveredm788]

That's the Easiest way I ever seen to file down precise amounts from rings

[@TotalSeal]

It’s so easy!

[@vincentfittante5979]

Nice informative video, the only thing that I would suggest adding would be to make a few passes with a fine finishing stone on the regrouped ring end.

[@JC-gw3yo]

Great tool...

[@TotalSeal]

Thanks

[@mikeg4163]

Would like to know the hp loss with slightly oversized gap. Basically is it worth pushing things to the edge for every last hp or is the risk greater than reward?

[@TotalSeal]

Great question. The risk is greater than the reward. A little more end gap never blew up an engine.

[@type4revolutionstudio]

👏👏👏👍

[@spencercarter4485]

What model piston ring filer and wheel are you using in the demonstration

[@TotalSeal]

It's the Total Seal PRF-812 Power Ring filer.

[@DeVoN420zz]

HUH?!?!?! you want the end gap to be set to the metallurgy and thermal expansion rates of the PISTON VS PISTION WALLS or your engine, a cheap cast piston will expand faster than a high quality forged piston. the piston expands faster than the cylinder walls and seizes/cracks/scratches that's why there is a gap

[@davidsundquist1845]

oil ring end gap ? you said 0

[@TotalSeal]

Oil ring rail end gap should be .015 at minimum.

[@packard1650v]

You don't even mention air cooled engines like Lycoming or Continental which has a Choked Bore. Are you sure you should be expressing to others about your expertise? What about a Radial Engine like an R-3350 or and R 2800?