Hi,

Just putting my 2003 xb9r cylinder back together and realise I need a piston ring compression tool. Got a feeling this will be expensive from HD so is the any way round it or a cheaper alternative. Manual also mentions the piston support plate. I take it this is used to stabilise the piston and stop is moving, again is this essential?

Also the torque values for the bolt instillation seem low to me between 15-30 NM. My torque wrench does not go down that low and the type of torque wrench I will need to get is more for push bikes!
There is also no mention of lock tight when installing the bolts even though some of them look like they have some on.

Any help advise greatly received

ask Maz

there is a specific sequence for torquing down the heads
if you do it wrong you will bend the lifters be warned

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Feros Ferio

Hi thanks yea that is pretty clear in the manual.

Thanks for advice

You can use your fingers as piston ring compressors like in the olden days. If you are American, you can put the pistons in the cylinders first then assemble with the gudgeon pin and circlips afterwards.

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08 Specialized Langster

Ok will give the old fashioned method ago, with ye old fingers. Would I not need another tool to remove the piston?

Thanks for advice

I use a bit of plywood with a cut out to clear the con rod, as a piston support plate. However, not essential as the barrel has a good chamfer.

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If your dreams don't scare you, they are not big enough.

Ok thanks Adam will bear that in mind if needed.

Ye old finger method is not bearing fruit. Maybe my sausage fingers are the problem.

Anyone have any other thoughts reference my original questions?

I've got this:

https://store.snapon.com/Ring-Compresso ... 35923.aspx

Think it is in the Buell manual as an approved tool.

I've never had to use it though.

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08 Specialized Langster

One on eBay.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/362069676042

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08 Specialized Langster

You can make a ring compressor from thin alloy sheet.
Make a strip that covers the rings on the piston and bent it the radius of the piston with two 90 degree lips for pressing together.

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The sound of a V-twin engine braking is music to my ears!!

Or insulation tape, the cylinder will peel it off as it goes on.

Easier with your fingers.

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08 Specialized Langster

Something like this,
http://www.homemadetools.net/homemade-p ... mpressor-2

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The sound of a V-twin engine braking is music to my ears!!

I just use my fingers, I guess if you bite your nails it might be a bit more difficult though

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2001 X1 2009 1125CR 2006 Uly X3 2010 Uly a fully Maz'd S1 and a 1991 RS1200 Westwind.

Or a big jubliee clip ......I use the Snap-On.....no surprises there then

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Mithered ta death.
92 MB
96 S2T
98 S1W
00 M2
01 X1
03 P3
10 CR

I'm surprised Snap On make Jubilee clips

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Feros Ferio