Piston And Connecting Rod

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Dodge Magnum, 2008 Dodge Charger, and 2008 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Installing Piston Ring

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

Measure clearance of piston rings to the cylinder bore and piston. See 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 CHRYSLER LLC
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: Installing Piston Ring
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

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 CHRYSLER LLC

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 CHRYSLER LLC
Position oil ring expander gap (5) as shown in illustration. Staggering ring gap is important for oil control.
Position piston lower side rail end gap (4) as shown in illustration.
Position piston upper side rail end gap (1) as shown in illustration.
Position piston ring #2 (5) end gap as shown in illustration.
Position piston ring #1 (2) end gap as shown in illustration.