pistons and gapless rings

[Divers]

Question for the experts.

I am going to put 4mm domed pistons on my 81 FI to give me ~9.8-1 compression. The new pistons come with rings...BUT....should I (read here: MONEY) do I really need the gapless rings to the tune of anther $195 bucks....already going to plunk down $350 on the pistons. Other than larger intake and exhaust valves (stock cams), the engine will not be racer.

Looking for pro's and con's.

Robert

[BEEK]

i use total seal gapless rings in all of my race motors, and some of my street motors. the good thing about total seal is you can send them your second groove ring from your new set and for a small fee they will machine it to be gapless, and include the second part of the gapless ring was like 45.00 last time i did it a few years ago

[timinator]

Total Seal makes good rings. The conventional style rings have universal support. The gapless receive mixed revues. The use of the gapless second rings are considered specific to alcohol fueled engines to combat oil contamination. Most of the positive comments about the gapless top rings are in reference to the fact that between season refreshing, the top ring can be reused, and only the second ring needs to be replaced. Low leakdown percentages are a claim that gapless rings can make. However a leakdown test is made on an engine that is not running. You also need to determine what ring grooves are cut in the pistons you plan to run. Thinner rings are more stable at higher rpm, say 5000+ rpm, be they steel, chrome or moly. Good luck on your build.

[Divers]

Thanks for the input!