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Well started to put the pistons in the flathead this morning and ran in to a problem already. The pistons are silvOlite 4 ring pistons with Hasting rings. The problem is there are two types of oil control rings. Cast iron like the original pistons had and a set of 3 piece spiral rings. Has anybody seen this before? I don't know which oil ring to put in the third groove or the fourth groove. I might have to contact Hastings after the New Years and see what they recommend.
The 3-pc rings go in the 3rd (from the top) groove, the c.i. 1-pc goes in the bottom.
A lot of people use the 3rd ring but omit the bottom ring, apparently with no oil consumption problems, and claimed less friction = "free" power. I may try it if I ever have cause to yank my engine. More here: Four ring pistons - The Ford Barn
Note that omitting the 4th ring is only possible with fresh, properly prepared bores, not a good idea when just re-ringing an existing bore.
Thank's Ross for the quick reply. The block has been bored .060 over. I think we will use all four of the rings. We are not concern about performance. The boys decided to go ice fishing so I guess we will give it a try tomorrow. Thank's Dale