Jeep Cherokee 2000 Service Manual - page 1131
(3) Top ring gap must be positioned at 30 degrees
to the right of the combustion chamber recess (look-
ing at the piston crown from above).
(4) Second piston ring gap should be positioned on
the opposite side of the combustion chamber recess.
(5) Oil control ring gap to be located 30 degrees to
the left of combustion chamber recess.
(6) When assembling pistons check that compo-
nents are installed in the same position as before dis-
assembly, determined by the numbers stamped on
the crown of individual pistons. Engine cylinders are
numbered starting from gear train end of the engine.
Face chamber recess side of piston towards
camshaft. Therefore, the numbers stamped on con
rod big end should also face in the same direction. To
insert piston into cylinder use a ring compressor as
shown in (Fig. 57).
PISTON PIN INSTALLATION
(1) Secure connecting rod in soft jawed vice.
(2) Lubricate piston pin and piston with clean oil.
(3) Position piston on connecting rod.
CAUTION: Ensure combustion recess in piston
crown and the bearing cap numbers on the con-
necting rod are on the same side.
(4) Install piston pin.
(5) Install clips in piston to retain piston pin.
(6) Remove connecting rod from vice.
INSTALLATION
(1) Before installing pistons, and connecting rod
assemblies into the bore, be sure that compression
ring gaps are staggered so that neither is in line with
oil ring rail gap (Fig. 59).
Fig. 55 Ring Gap Measurement
1 – FEELER GAUGE
Fig. 56 Piston Ring to Groove Clearance
Fig. 57 Piston Rings—Removing and Installing
Fig. 58 Piston Ring Identification
XJ
ENGINE
9 - 37
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)