OEM 2003 Dodge Neon Piston Ring Set

2003 Dodge Neon Piston Ring Set Parts and Q&A

• Q: What is the Correct Method for Installing a Piston Ring Set on 2003 Dodge Neon?

  A: Start by using the ring expander to take out both upper and intermediate piston rings, after that the upper oil ring side rail, lower oil ring side rail and the oil ring expander from the piston. Get rid of carbon in the grooves by cleaning them. Once installation begins, the identification mark on the face of each piston ring must be pointing toward the top part of the piston. Set the rings in the ring groove with this order: oil ring expander, upper oil ring side rail, lower oil ring side rail, No. 2 intermediate piston ring and No. 1 upper piston ring. Install the oil ring expander, followed by placing the upper side rail, setting the lower side rail second and securing the assembly by holding it between the ring groove and the oil expander, pressing down until set. Don't apply a piston ring expander at this part of the process. After that, set in the No. 2 piston ring and fit the No. 1 piston ring next. Adjust the piston ring gaps and make sure the oil ring expander gap is at least 45° from the side rail gaps, not by the piston pin center or in the thrust direction, since having gaps in different places is important for managing oil.