Section 15 (2.7L Engine (Service Information)): Rings-Piston: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Piston Ring - Installation

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

Measure clearance of piston rings to the cylinder bore and piston.(Refer to ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/PISTON RINGS - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
CAUTION: Install piston rings in the following order:
1. Oil ring expander.
2. Lower oil ring side rail.
3. Upper oil ring side rail.
4. No. 2 Intermediate piston ring.
5. No. 1 Upper piston ring.
Fig 2: Side Rail - Installation
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Install oil ring expander.
Install the side rail by placing one end between the piston ring groove and the oil ring expander. Hold end firmly and press down the portion to be installed until side rail is in position. Do not use a piston ring expander during this step.
Install lower side rail first and then the upper side rail.

Fig 3: Piston Ring - Installation
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

NOTE: The No. 1 and No. 2 piston rings have a different cross section. Ensure No. 2 ring is installed with manufacturers I.D. mark (dot) facing up, towards top of the piston.

Fig 4: Piston Ring Remover/Installer
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

NOTE: Be sure to use a ring expander to install piston rings.
Install No. 2 piston ring and then No. 1 piston ring.

Fig 5: Piston Ring End Gap Positions
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Position oil ring expander gap (5) as shown in Fig 5. Staggering ring gap is important for oil control.
Position piston lower side rail end gap (4) as shown in Fig 5.
Position piston upper side rail end gap (1) as shown in Fig 5.
Position piston ring #2 (5) end gap as shown in Fig 5.
Position piston ring #1 (2) end gap as shown in Fig 5.