optimum ring gap

[homer41]

218 plymouth, I am installing rings, the gap is way tight. manual says .010 to .020 what would be the optimum gap to shoot for?   Dave

[Tom Skinner]

A 250.6 cu. in. Spitfire calls for between .007 - .015 Ring Gap. Always reference your Service Manual. All other information is heresay.

Service Manuals pay for themselves immediately in cases like this. Good Luck!

Tom

[Sharps40]

If you havel to grind it split the difference 

[kencombs]

Tight ring gaps are sort of unusual IME.  Are you using a quality brand ring and does the box label size match your bore size? 

 

My concern is a mislabeled or factory size mistake.  Too much ground off would result in a ring that is not round when in the cylinder.  That would create a high wear area and compression leak during an extended breakin. 

 

Maybe I'm over cautious, or your way tight is my a little tight.

Edited May 9, 2019 by kencombs

[Dodgeb4ya]

New replacement rings from most all manufacturers all say .003"-.004" per inch of cylinder diameter....I'd go .012"

Follow the ring manufacturer specs which should be in your ring package.......... unless they are chinese "White Box" no-name...those..... don't use them.

[homer41]

Thanks all!   Dave