re-use of Moly rings

[76zimmer]

I'm pretty sure you can't, but if I pull the pistons out to check the bores, change rod bolts, and bearings, I'm thinking I need to rehone, and put new rings on, if the bores check out fine. motor is a SBC
Correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[1979jimmy350]

you are best to replace them, you can reuse them but they will not last that long

 

[NateInChandler]

Check the leakdown before you take it apart. Leakdown tells you everything in the world of engines. less than 15% and your golden. anything more than 18-20% its time for a rebuild IMHO, My 383 in my truck was bored and honed with torque plates, has 15,000 miles on it so far and 3% leakdown in all but #7 which has 4%... No need to re-bore or hone unless you need to or you are upgrading..

 

[76zimmer]

upgrading is what I'm after, and PM on the bearings. I want to check all the bearings, and change the rod bolts.

 

[NateInChandler]

Any kind of piston change would require a re-bore IMO due to variances between pistons. If you do a leakdown and its all good, pull it apart keeping the rings, pistons and rods dedicated to the holes that they came out of and your golden if all your gonna do is bearings and rod bolts (rod bolts Normally require at least checking the big end of the rod after the new bolts are torqued or stretched).. Just my .02 but Ive only went 11.35 at 115 in my streetcar... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOUT2da7g2A&feature=channel_page Hope this helps...

 

[76zimmer]

Not changing pistons, just the rod bolts....engine has about 150 full throttle passes on it, just wondering if the rings, being moly would adapt to being returned to the location on their original pistons, and still seal up....I think I'll just hone and replace anyway.

Thanks for the input....