Broken piston rings

[HighTrim]

Something is terribly wrong with what you are doing. They should NOT be snapping like that!

As stated, ensure everything is oiled up well.

I am the same as the others that prefer to just use my fingers to drop them in. I like to see that the rings are orientated correctly at the pin. Just squeeze together, then drop down. Some ring compressers leave you blind to what is going on if you are not used to them.

As stated, you SURE you have the right rings? Put one in the bore without the piston, what is the end gap?

 

[domaotc]

I'm baffled too. Unfortunately I don't have any lower rings left to try since I broke the last one I had. With the top rings only on I'm able to squeeze the rings with my fingers and the piston slides right in. I'll probably go that route only when I get a new set. I was hoping someplace sold the lower rings only (since now I have extra top rings) but I haven't found anyplace that does that. Thanks for everyone's input.

 

[raczekp1]

ebay seller " hbkai714" sells rings set for 1 piston at 18$

 

[domaotc]

Success! I think the most important advice I received regarding this issue what that the pistons "should" slide in just by using your fingers to compress the rings. I did use the compression tool on the last top ring which was giving me a little trouble. Being patient also helped. Thanks again for all the input.

 

[boobie]

The whole problem here is the ring compressor. It was designed for a four stroke motor that had no locator pins for the rings in the pistons. You'll break rings every time using this compressor on a two stroke if you don't know the trick which I think Fazt does. I learned it the hard way myself back in 1966.

 

[Melon Top]

Instead of an automotive ring compressor, and if the by hand method isn't working, I'd offer to try a regular hose clamp for the same purpose. It effectively compresses the ring(s), but allows excellent visibility while nudging the piston into the cylinder. You'll be able to see if the piston isn't sliding in as it should, and that allows you to correct whatever is wrong before anything breaks. I have used this for small engines for years. Just don't forget to lube the inside of the clamp.

 

[racerone]

???------I use fingers and a small screwdriver.----Did a 9.9 a while ago and it takes less than a minute to install a piston !