What is meant by piston ring end gap?

Piston ring end gap refers to the distance between the ends of the piston ring when it is positioned inside the cylinder. This gap is crucial for the proper functioning of the piston rings and plays a significant role in engine efficiency and performance. A specific end gap is necessary to allow for thermal expansion of the ring material when the engine is operating at high temperatures. If the gap is too small, the rings may be forced against each other, leading to potential damage or failure. Conversely, if the gap is too large, it can result in excessive oil consumption or loss of compression, negatively affecting engine performance.

This understanding highlights the importance of correctly measuring and adjusting the piston ring end gap to ensure optimal operation of the engine. Properly set end gaps help maintain effective sealing between the piston and cylinder walls, which is essential for both minimizing emissions and achieving efficient power output.