2. Position piston/rod assemblies and new piston ring sets opposite their respective cylinders.
3. Insert the top ring into the first cylinder, using the piston head, push it down the cylinder at a distance of 15-20 mm from the top edge perpendicular to the axis of the cylinder. Then take out the piston.
4. Measure the gap of the cut with feeler gauges and compare the obtained values with the data given in the Specifications (see illustration).
5. If the clearance is too small (then most likely non-original Opel parts are used), the clearance must be increased, otherwise the ring ends will touch each other when the engine is running, which may cause serious damage. Ideally, new piston rings should be installed to ensure proper cut clearance. In extreme cases, the gap can be increased by carefully grinding the ends with a small file. Clamp the file in a vise, put the ring on it and move it slowly. Remember that piston rings are very fragile and can break easily.
6. If the clearance is too large, check that the correct ring is selected for the wall size of the given cylinder.
7. Repeat the test procedure for each ring on the first cylinder, and then for the rings in the remaining cylinders. Do not confuse rings and pistons between cylinders.
8. After the gaps of the cuts are checked and, if necessary, corrected, the rings can be installed on the pistons.
9. Install the piston rings using the method used for removal. Install the bottom spacer first (oil scraper) rings, then install the oil ring parts.
10. The cross sections of the second and upper compression rings are different; the upper one has a rectangular section, and the second ring is tapered. Install the second and top compression rings with the mark «TOR» up.
Attention! Always refer to the instructions included with new piston ring kits - different manufacturers may specify different procedures. Do not mix up the top and second compression rings. On some engines, the top ring may be without an identification mark and can be installed in either direction.
11. After installing the piston rings in place, make sure that they move freely in the groove. Check the gap between the ring and the groove wall of each ring, then place the ring cuts as shown (see illustrations).
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