Piston - Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mazda Tribute and 2002 Mazda Tribute. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Do not use a caustic cleaning solution or a wire brush to clean the pistons or damage can occur.

Clean and inspect the (1) ring lands, (2) skirts, (3) pin bosses, and the (4) tops of the pistons. If wear marks, scores or glazing is found on the piston skirt, check for a bent or twisted connecting rod. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS .

Fig 1: Cleaning & Inspecting Pistons
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Use the Piston Ring Groove Cleaner to clean the piston ring grooves.
1. Make sure the oil ring holes are clean.
  
  Fig 2: Cleaning Piston Ring Grooves
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.