Mazda MX-5 1990 Workshop Manual page 89

B
OIL RING
SPACER ENDS
R
8-62
05UOBX-178
05UOBX-179
1·----· ... -
LOWER RAIL
PISTON
05UOBX-180
TOP
~CJ
05UOBX-181
ASSEMBLY
6. Install the second clip into the clip groove in the piston.
-
7. Check the oscillation torque of the connecting rod. If the
large end does not drop by its own weight, replace the pis-
ton and/or piston pin. -
Piston Ring
1. Install the three-piece oil rings on the pistons.
(1) Apply clean engine oil to the oil ring spacer and rails.
(2) Install the oil ring spacer with the ends upward.
Note
• The upper rail and lower rail are the same.
• The rails may be installed with either face upward.
(3) Install the upper rail and lower rail.
2. Verify that both rails are expanded by the spacer tangs as
shown in the figure by making certain the rails turn smoothly
in both directions.
Caution
• The rings must be installed with the R marks
upward.
• The second ring must be installed with the scraper
face downward.
3. Apply clean engine oil to the top and second piston rings.
4. Install the second ring to the piston; then install the top ring.
Use a piston ring expander (commercially available).