how to get cylinder over piston

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GearNut

Active Member
Aug 19, 2009
5,104
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San Diego, Kaliforgnia
I am assuming that you are referring to a 2 stroke engine.
There are small locating pins in the piston ring grooves. They prevent the piston rings from rotating around the piston and the piston ring ends from getting snagged on a cylinder port.
You need to ensure that the locating pins are centered in the piston ring end gaps.
Carefully use your fingernails to compress each ring into the piston ring groove as it slips up into the cylinder. Use pre-mix oil, very lightly applied, to help things slip in easier.

Here is an excellent tutorial from Norman, Lord Vader on how to rebuild the top end.
Pay close attention to posts # 10 and #11 for ring end gap/ locating pin info and a handy home made tool to help hold the piston for you as you slip the cylinder over the piston.
http://motorbicycling.com/showthread.php?t=297

Above all, take your time and never force the cylinder on with a hammer or other striking object.
 
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