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Is a ring compressor required?

  • Thread starter Thread starter brettule
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brettule

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Rebuilding my GS400 engine and need to slide the pistons with rings compressed into the head. One manual says a special ring compression tool is a must, another manual says a large hose clamp will do the trick, the last manual says you can compress it by hand without any tools. In peoples experience, what's the best method?
 
Have not done a 400, but have not used one yet on the 650, 850, 1000 and 1100 engines I have worked on.

It would be a treat to only have to worry about two pistons. :dancing:

.
 
They will make life way easier but not necessarily " needed". Some have used soda can metal cut to go the distance around the rings and a wide zip tie. Wrap the can stock around the piston and cinch with a zip tie so it still slides a little. Put the head on and work the pistons up in and then shimmy the can stock out.
 
Hey Steve..when i rebuilt the engine on the 73 Yamaha TX 750, I just sat the jugs on some wood and used two little screwdrivers and the pistons slid in like butter..and yes sir..2 jugs is a party compared to getting 4 in.
 
(Shrug) I used thumbnails to reassemble my 850, with twice the number of pistons...

What's needed more than a ring compressor is a scheme (usually wooden) to prevent nicking / harming the piston skirts while you work. As I recall, I cut some furring strips (basically 1x2) to slide under the pistons on both sides.
 
You should try an I4 that has integrated cylinders and upper crankcase. Trying to line up pistons and compress rings while juggling the crankshaft is... "fun".
 
Same here, I just use my fingers and cut a piece of wood as described in the manuals. Now that is for a 1000 not a 400 mind you, not sure if you would need a piece of anything since there's only 2 pistons.
 
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