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My piston ring grooves had quite a bit of (oily?) gunk settlement. Is it appropriate to clean them with a dental pick? Is there risk to scratching them? My assumption is not since it is not a gasket mating surface. Also, what chemical is best to clean it with, WD-40, brake cleaner or something like acetone, mineral spirits or alcohol?

Also -- should I lube the grooves (with regular engine oil or assembly lube) when installing the rings (to facilitate moving to the right position)?

amphibient
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1 Answers1

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As I suggested to you previously, use the old piston rings. They are the exact width you need to clean the ring lands. Just break off about 1/3 of a ring. Besides that, use some cleaning solvent like brake/carb cleaner. Even WD40 will work just fine.

You don't need to oil the groves. Just the outside of the piston when you go to install them.

Pᴀᴜʟsᴛᴇʀ2
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