Piston Ring End Gap

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: Checking Ring End Gap

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

1 - FEELER GAUGE

NOTE: Before reinstalling used rings or installing new rings, the ring clearances must be checked.

Wipe the cylinder bore clean.
Insert the ring in the cylinder bore.
NOTE: The ring gap measurement must be made with the ring positioned at least 12 mm (0.50 inch.) from bottom of cylinder bore.
Using a piston, to ensure that the ring is squared in the cylinder bore, slide the ring downward into the cylinder.
Using a feeler gauge check the ring end gap. Replace any rings not within specification.