Frank Miller
Well-known member
A few years ago I asked this question and someone posted a link showing excessive end gaps in new rings did not adversely affect performance. the key was rings maintaining tension to seal against the cylinder. I can understand manufacturers wanting ring gaps off the thrust surfaces but as to where the gaps are in relation to the next should not make a difference. As pressure builds on top of one ring it increases pressure on the second through the gap. While the pressure will not increase instantaneously it is quick enough that 4 inches away should not matter. But let's look at the physical properties. If you have .030 end gap and ,010 piston clearance at the top it will give you .0003 sq inches for pressure to escape. And that is cold. Try putting an orifice that size on your compressor and see how much air escapes. Gapless rings might seem ideal but I'm wary they're creating a weak spot where the ring is thinner.