Originally Posted by zipper06

I agree with the article 100%, but there are a lot of variables, such as running alcohol, VS gas, and 10.0 to 1 compression VS 14.0 to 1 compression. Grant was the first people to build a gapless ring, called a Z-gap i was running them in the 60's, but they were cast iron. The big problem today is that the piston manufacturers are mostly on production CNC machines and the groove clearances can vary from .001 to .003 . I lived in PHX. for yrs. and worked 1 blk from Total Seal when they first started out. I used to pick up my rings at their shop. I still run them but they are not good for nitrous or a blown motor. Same with a low drag narrow oil ring, they work best with a vacuum pump. I agree with Racear, piston rings are a black art and each engine has it's own preferance.

With that said before i get myself in over my head, Thanks Hink for the article, i saved it because it has a lot of good advice and for sure makes sense. I wonder how many people actually hone the blocks with the gasket under the honing plate?

JMO

Zip.