Author Topic: If I need rings, what should I do while I'm in there...  (Read 1959 times)

January 10, 2008, 05:55:31 pm

MaxHedrm

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If I need rings, what should I do while I'm in there...
« on: January 10, 2008, 05:55:31 pm »
So, I think my 1.6D might need rings. The mechanic I gave up & took it to, said compression was low. When I had the head off the cylinder walls seemed pretty smooth, so I probably don't need to have it honed. But that is an option. So, there are 2 paths I am thinking...what else am I missing on either path? What else should I do "while I'm there"?

Option 1 - the cheap route
New rings.
I am guessing the bearings should be at least checked?
What else?

Option 2 - the more involved route
Hone the block
Upgrade the pistons
New bearings
What else?

*sigh* I really had hoped that the bottom end was solid, but according to the odometer the car has 360k miles on it or so. So, I guess I should have known better.  :(

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Reply #1January 10, 2008, 05:58:34 pm

RabbitJockey

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If I need rings, what should I do while I'm in there...
« Reply #1 on: January 10, 2008, 05:58:34 pm »
the only way to know is to measure the bores. u could still do a quick hone haha
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Reply #2January 10, 2008, 06:04:12 pm

Diesel Fumes

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If I need rings, what should I do while I'm in there...
« Reply #2 on: January 10, 2008, 06:04:12 pm »
I'd say rebuild the whole engine while you're at it  :lol:

Reply #3January 10, 2008, 10:11:31 pm

Vincent Waldon

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If I need rings, what should I do while I'm in there...
« Reply #3 on: January 10, 2008, 10:11:31 pm »
I'd say a couple of reasonable questions are:  how long do you want it to last, how worn is it now, and how much do you need/want to invest ?

If you want quick and cheap you can deglaze the cylinders and reassemble with new rings and a headgasket....

Or let the engine tell the story:  Pull the oil pan. pull the pistons, inspect.  Measure the bores.   Then take stock.

Rings are cheap, bearings are dirt cheap, oversize pistons are a bit more... you might not need em.
Vince

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Gone but not forgotten: 1969/1971 Beetles, 1969/1974 Westies, 1979 Rabbit, 1986 TD Jetta, 1992 gas Jetta, 1994 TD Jetta