Best ring compressor??

[tbird]

Doing a rebuild this winter and was wondering which tool for compressing rings is the best for the money? Thanks

[jmanjeff]

I use a set like this
but there not cheep around 100 bucks new

[hdpegscraper]

I have that same set from Snap ON, works slick. The band also has a slight taper to aid installation.  These guys have a similar version to the Snap On one from TP tools. http://www.tooldiscounter.com/ItemDisplay.cfm?lookup=WLMW89410

[f-x-d-w-g]

I just used a large hose clamp that I picked up at Napa.  Cost 4 bucks...

[chopper]

Best I've found... cheap, too


Lisle 21700 3" to 5" Wrinkle Band Ring Compressor

Wrinkle band cuts friction in half
Rings slide in easily
CAM operated - set adjustment screw just once for entire set of pistons
Insert a full set of pistons in half the time, with half the work
Wrinkle band can't slip down into cylinder

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009OR93I

[Old Crow]

+1 for the Lisle. Got mine off the Snap-On truck, though.

[FSG]

Never seen the "Lisle 21700 3" to 5" Wrinkle Band Ring Compressor" before, I must check the Snap-On truck next week.

[nc-renegade]

Never seen the "Lisle 21700 3" to 5" Wrinkle Band Ring Compressor" before, I must check the Snap-On truck next week.

I bought mine at Pep Boys....the Lisle works very well.

[bagga]

I just used a large hose clamp that I picked up at Napa.  Cost 4 bucks...

thats what i used too. if you're only using it one time, i would go the cheep route.

[Louie]

Hey tbird,
If you can get the plier type like pic one they work great for HD. The wrinkle band will do it but they are a bit of a pain wriggling around the cyl studs.Large hose type clamp will work in a pinch.If you have an Auto Zone near you I think they loan/rent tools.Make sure whatever you use opens up so you can get it off the rod once the cyl is on.good luck with the project.

[f-x-d-w-g]

Using the hose clamp, I installed the pistons/rings in the cylinders then installed the assembly on the bike.  Done it twice with no problems.

[carpenterjoe]

Careful with Leslie type it can snag & brake ring ends taking it off.don,t ask me how I know.

[hdjax2]

I also use this type with good results. I think it's made by K-D tools

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[PoorUB]

This is the one I use, the short one, been stuffing pistons with it for ~30 years! I installed the pistons in the cylinders firest.

[the Grump]

I use a piece of banding material bent in the shape of an ohm symbol.