Piston - Ring-to-Groove Clearance

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Monterey and 2004 Ford Freestar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Inspect the piston for ring land damage or accelerated wear.

Fig 1: Inspecting Piston For Ring Land Damage Or Accelerated Wear
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Measure the piston ring-to-groove clearance.

Refer to ENGINE - 3.9L & 4.2L for the procedure.
If out of specification, install new components as necessary. Refer to ENGINE - 3.9L & 4.2L for the procedure .

Fig 2: Measuring Piston Ring-To-Groove Clearance

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.