I'm going to be building an engine soon and was wondering how many of you use a ring expander or if you like spinning the rings on by hand? I've done it both ways and noticed that when I use an expander it seems to leave the rings expanded a lot more than if they are spun on.

 

I've got an expander, but with larger (automotive) pistions I usually do it by hand. The smaller pistons use rings that are easier to break, and the rate of expansion is a lot easier to control with the expander.

 

i've always used an expander

 

I use an expander too.