Genuine Mazda Protege Piston Ring

Mazda Protege Piston Ring Parts and Q&A

• Piston Ring Set
  BPZ0-11-SC0B
  Q: How should the ring end gaps be checked before installing new piston rings on Mazda Protege?

  A:

  Checking the ring end gaps should be done before the new Piston rings are installed assuming that the piston ring groove clearance has been checked to be correct. During the end gap measurement and engine assembly, lay out the piston/connecting rod assemblies and the new ring sets in accordance with the same piston and cylinder. Install the upper ring in the first cylinder so that it is in line with the sides of the cylinder by forcing it inside with the top of the piston until the ring is located close to the bottom of the cylinder on the bottom limit of the ring travel. Measurement of the end gap is done by sliding slip feeler gauges between the ends of the ring until a gauge that matches with the width of the gap is obtained, but the feeler gauge should slide between the ends of the ring with a low level of drag. When the gap is bigger or smaller than indicated, cross-examine to make sure that the right rings are in use. In case the gap is very small, take out the rings and file the ends to create more clearance. The excessive end gap is not critical in case it is below the service limit, hence ensure the appropriate rings are attached to the engine. Repeat the process with one ring each in the first cylinder and with rings, pistons and cylinders pairing. Check the ring end gaps and repair them after which install the rings on the pistons, beginning with the oil control ring which is made in three parts. Just push the spacer/expander into the groove and make sure to push any anti-rotation tang into the hole that has been drilled in the ring groove and then install the lower side of the rail without a piston ring installation tool to prevent damage. Align one end of the side rail in the groove and slide a finger around the piston pushing the rail into the groove then install the upper side rail in the same manner. Once the three parts of the oil ring are installed ensure that both the upper side and lower side rails move evenly in the ring groove. Install the middle ring next making sure that the stamped part is facing upwards towards the top of the piston and follow the instructions on the ring package without confusing the top and middle rings as they have different cross sections. Install a piston ring installation tool so that the identification mark of the ring is facing the top of the piston, and then slide the ring into the middle groove, avoiding the expansion of the ring further than is required. Lastly in the process, put in the top ring and make sure that the mark is up and do not mix up the top and middle rings and follow through with the other rings and pistons.