new rings do i line them up or no? cb360

[blueandy]

got new rings and they all have the gap from end to end. since i am new to putting on rings i have a quick question? do i line up the gaps they all have on the pistons or would tbey be staggered?

 

[monseraat]

DO NOT LINE THEM UP. stagger them 120 degrees apart

 

[Redbird]

It's common practice to stagger the ring gaps, and it certainly doesn't hurt. But in reality the rings will (ever so slightly) float/rotate around on the piston while the bike is running anyway.

More importantly, you want to make sure your rings have the proper gap before installing the piston in the cylinder. Too tight a gap and they'll bind in the cylinder during heat cycles. Too loose a gap and they'll allow blowby and/or effect compression.

 

[surffly]

It sounds like someone should get/download/buy the factory manual.
Im sure that there are other things that you either dont know or will have questions on.
Its ok as everyone has to start some place. but the manual is an invaluable tool for a newbie and you should read it.
It all but walks you though this type of stuff

 

[Tim]

There is also often a 'top' and 'bottom' to these rings. If they have markings on one side, that is USUALLY the top, but you need to confirm that.

 

[Super T.I.B]

Yep, get a manual. In mine, it has a pic of each ring and how to install them (120 deg apart) and each one has a different profile. I remember one of them has an angular profile, can't remember the others, and each one has to go into a specific groove.