novice who needs help

[rideforlife]

So I have pulled my head off and painted it black with stove paint, now comes the novice part- how do I get the head back on.It seems that I cant slip the piston into the cylinder because the rings get in the way. Is there a special tool or secrets to this process. I will admit this is the first engine i have ever played with and any help from someone out there would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much.

 

[Venice Motor Bikes]

There are tiny pins inside the ring grooves in the piston to hold the ring ends in place. YOU MUST BE SURE TO HAVE THE RING ENDS AT THE PINS OR YOU WILL BREAK THE RINGS!!

Also... you could've just painted it without taking it apart. I would also recommend a new head gasket.

 

[rideforlife]

Thank you VMB
Should the ring ends be touching when I try to slip the head over the piston?
Think it is time for me to whip out my glasses.