Ring compressor tool

[Adam76]

Apologies for uploading photos against the HTT rules.

Just looking for advice on a good ring compressor tool for my 4.125" CP pistons.

I've used different types in the past for my Evo and TC builds, but never liked them.

Fixed, tapered, adjustable?
Cheers

[JSD]

Snap on in OZ . Excellent tool. Has 6 sizes IMM serves 

[JSD]

I payed about $ 250 Adam has ratchet and clamps. I have other brands but this is the best i found in OZ

[rigidthumper]

I've used one of these for decades.

[calif phil]

I've used one of these for decades.

That is what is in my tool box.

[Ohio HD]

Make that three, I have the KD Tools version. I bought this in the early 80's.

KD Tools number 850.

[kd]

I also have the KD version but often use my fingers and a popsicle stick.  I keep some in my tool box drawer.  I like to know the ring gap placement exactly and can watch the ring clearing the rim of the cylinder.  Especially the oil ring set.  I don't mind taking the time to do that.

[bump]

Have one for car rings and it is easier to use the widest worm gear clamp the parts had and big enough to to fit piston ring and use popsicle sticks.

[Adam76]

Thanks guys, I got myself a copy of the Snap On tool and I think it will work nicely.

I don't trust myself using the popsicle stick method 

[hrdtail78]

I have a set from Rowe (snap on style) and KD.  The KD box is on top of the Rowe box in my drawer so I guess I use them more.  Would be only reason because they work the same.

BUT three cheers to the cylinder guys that take the time and put a nice chamfer on the spigot.  Makes all the difference. 

[rigidthumper]

Use lots of lube. It's a lot easier to wipe excess lube than to replace broken rings.

[jmorton10]

That is what is in my tool box.

Same here.

~John

[kd]

Use lots of lube. It's a lot easier to wipe excess lube than to replace broken rings.

  .... or distorted oil ring scrapers.  Of course there are several choices of lube that is manufactured specifically for assembly.  I find an easy light lube to be 2 stroke oil as it has built in properties that will aid the pistons and rings at first start-up.

[Ohio HD]

BUT three cheers to the cylinder guys that take the time and put a nice chamfer on the spigot.  Makes all the difference. 

100%         They almost fall in with a good bevel on the bottom.

[Adam76]

I have a set from Rowe (snap on style) and KD.  The KD box is on top of the Rowe box in my drawer so I guess I use them more.  Would be only reason because they work the same.

BUT three cheers to the cylinder guys that take the time and put a nice chamfer on the spigot.  Makes all the difference. 

Use lots of lube. It's a lot easier to wipe excess lube than to replace broken rings.

BUT three cheers to the cylinder guys that take the time and put a nice chamfer on the spigot.  Makes all the difference. 

100%         They almost fall in with a good bevel on the bottom.

Thanks guys, that's awesome info.

What do I ask the machine shop to do to get the bevel you are taking about?

And what's the best lube? Engine oil or assembly lube?

Thanks

[Ohio HD]

Either will work for assembly. I prefer assembly lube.

Just ask the guy to make a 45° bevel at the bottom of the bore. How he does it is up to him and what equipment he has.


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[Adam76]

Thanks for the tip on the 45* bevel.... That will definitely make things easier. I wish I knew this the first few times I did top end rebuilds. 

[Ohio HD]

hrdtail78 brought it up, I just agreed with him. It helps a lot.