Ring end Gap

[fink]

How does one measure it?

Any tricks for getting the rings off the pistons without scratching the piston crown or skirt?

Thanks

[modkingfzr600]

use ring expanding pliers to get them off without scratching the pistons , to measure ring end gap you will need to insert the ring down in the cylinder by itself, shove it down about 1 " deep in the cylinder and make sure it is square with the cylinder walls " same distance down all the way around the ring" then use feeler guages and measure the ring end gap ( the gap between the two ends of the ring) i'm sure you already knew the last part.

[fink]

Thanks! Everyone says, oh yea, measure the ring end gap to see if they are below spec... but nobody knows the correct procedure to actually measure the ring end gap.

I need new friends.

It is pretty much a given that I will need new rings, do you happen to know anywhere to get them at under $90/piston?

[modkingfzr600]

I have been seeing quite a few brand new sets on ebay lately for pocket change, i would look there first.

[fink]

I got one set for $20. Saved me $70! Only took four years to find one, so in another 12 I should have enough for the rebuild!

Should I be looking anywhere other than ebay?

[modkingfzr600]

well, if you can't find new ones on ebay ....... take a jar of vaseline and your wallet and go to the dealer.

[fink]

Unfortunatly, that might be the only option.

I never could understand why Yamaha rings and pistons are so expensive. I don't think I paid $90 for both sets of ducati rings.