If you have to jam the feeler gauge in, use the next smaller gauge. It should fit in with only a slight drag. If it is tight, that doesn't count

Ok DD. Have some concerns now that I checked my ring gaps. Top ring is 0.014 and a tight 0.015 using a standard feeler gauge. 2nd ring is 0.012 and a tight 0.013. Haynes calls out a maximum 0.014 for the top and 0.012 for the 2nd ring. I am ok on the oil rings which measured between 0.022-0.024. Haynes calls out between 0.0118 and 0.0354. Top and 2nd ring are on the top end and slightly out of tolerance depending how accurate my feeler gauge is.

Here is a Cosworth A14 piston with holes drilled inward

Interesting. Here are some A14 pistons by Matsuoka that have two kinds of ring land holes -- some drilled inwards and some drilled diagonally

Attach file:

---

  DSC_0251.jpg (30.16 KB)


  DSC_0249-1.jpg (23.30 KB)

DD/RT,

Here is what my machine shop guy says about positioning the oil ring expander facing up. If you can follow his logic let me know what you guys think...

"on some pistons the oil return holes that are drilled thru the ring land on the oil control ring are below the bottom land. If by chance the expander catches on the edge of the hole it will distort and put uneven pressure on the oil control rings which will make the engine use oil or not seal the cylinder well. My way is just a precaution that i have learned over the years"

Text above diagram says "Colored Section". I will go with the instructions and face the channels down.

Attach file:

---

  ring.text.jpg (69.71 KB)

I've always followed what is on the directions and never had an issue.

It may not matter, both ways may work well. Still, I'd go with the manufacture recommendation

What does it say above the ring diagram?

Attach file:

---

  Mating point shall beonthe Lower Side.jpg (34.14 KB)

Thanks Vixen/DD. For some reason my machine shop guy told me install the oil ring spacer with the ends pointing up. Any idea why? The instructions say to install the ends pointing down.

Nice, those are genuine Riken Rik-Vent rings

Here's the B310 A14/A15 factory service manual:
translation:
Point the inscription upward
- Top Ring
- Second Ring
Oil Ring

Attach file:

---

  132a Piston Ring Assembling.jpg (44.12 KB)