Dave,
I've torn engines down before and the distance between the rings is
relatively a lot more than the gap between the ends of the ring when
compressed into the cylinder. It is such a big difference that I don't see
how the intra-ring distance could be restrictive to the flow of gasses
passing through the ring gap.

I'd really like to see some information on the "Very Clever Design" you
mentioned. Even if the cylinders were honed with a diagonal pattern,
shouldn't the ring just reverse direction at the end of the stroke and
follow the honing marks?

--
Jim Carter
"David Lesher" wrote in message
...
"Jim Carter" writes:


What causes the piston rings to rotate? Since the piston movement is
perpendicular to the cylinder wall, there must be some other mechanism
other
than just piston movement causing them to rotate.

Very Clever Design. I can't recall the details, but ISTM there are
[automotive] patents on making 'em creep along.

Also, why would the grooves on the rings have to be lined up to allow
leakage through the groove?

It does leak lots more; the gap between the rings is not all that
far, I guess...

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