Q: The culprit is a 1989 GMC 1500 4×4 with a 350, automatic with overdrive, a 3.42 axle, and over 150,000 miles. It has recently developed a powerful thirst for Texas tea, consuming 1 quart every 100 miles. A new PCV valve didn’t fix it, and a valve job only eliminated the smoke at startup.
This may sound like a simple question, but what is cylinder wall glazing and how is it created? I hear about it all the time when people talk about piston rings not sealing, but I’m not sure what it really is. Thanks. – T.D. … Jeff Smith: Great question! We did a little digging and then
[portfolio_slideshow id=56479] When it comes to pistons, the most common arrangement you’ll encounter makes use of three piston rings — compression, second, and oil. Today, we’re turning our focus to the areas of the piston most associated with the rings: the ring lands and grooves. Piston ring lands are the areas of the piston between the piston rings.
I’ve heard that late model engines now run much thinner rings than the older production engines. Are these thinner rings just there to improve fuel mileage or is there a power advantage with these new rings? I’m about to rebuild my small-block Ford and I’d be willing to try something newer if it’s better. Thanks
When you shop for high performance piston ring sets, you’ll no doubt find there are many different sets and styles available (no big secret). And many of these ring sets are designed to be hand-fit to each cylinder bore. Typically, file-fit rings are designed so they measure 0.005-inch oversize (obviously larger than the cylinder bore size). By
You’ve seen it—somebody trying to install pistons and ending up with pinched or broken piston rings or so much oil in the bore their shoes are drenched. It doesn’t have to be that way if you use the easy-to-follow procedure outlined in the photo captions. Happy piston installin’! [portfolio_slideshow id=17469] Tools Required Lint-Free Towels
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