Easy Way to Install New Rimgs

[sweetds]

Hi all,

Very nice forum here:)

I have a 86 fj1200 I am putting new rings in. Pretty self forward just wondering if there was an easy way to collapse the rings and what order (if any) would make it easier?

I have the front and back pistons up now or is it easier to start with the center ones first just curious.......

Thanks in advance

[andyb]

There's a tool for it.  There's actually a couple of different kinds, the other type looks a little like a pliers.

After much screwing around and a major lack of having six hands, I finally decided that the easiest way was to put the pistons in the block, then bring the block down slowly and attach the rods, rather than trying to do it in the other order.  But then, my piston ring compressing tool is kinda crap, proper tools would make it a piece of piss.

Doing the middle ones first I thought was easier, as you have the most crap in the way to get to them, and the least room to work.  Then you're over the hump and the outside pair aren't as bad.

[sweetds]

Thanks I appreciate the comment..........

[SlowOldGuy]

After much screwing around and a major lack of having six hands, I finally decided that the easiest way was to put the pistons in the block, then bring the block down slowly and attach the rods, rather than trying to do it in the other order.  But then, my piston ring compressing tool is kinda crap, proper tools would make it a piece of piss.

Doing the middle ones first I thought was easier, as you have the most crap in the way to get to them, and the least room to work.  Then you're over the hump and the outside pair aren't as bad.

WOW! Andy, that a great technique!  I remember it being a PITA when installing pistons.  I did the frowned upon method of "poke the rings with a screwdriver."  Fortunately I didn't break any (it's been enough miles that a broken ring would have showed up by now), but I wouldn't want to tempt fate another time.

Thanks for the tip!

DavidR