I'm looking at new std "Rings" for my 3800SC. I keep getting asked what letter is in the VIN #. I Don't know what the vin # was, no longer have the 1997 riviera body. Is the vin code on the block ? I'm still "inching away" at the "Harness".

What is likely the question is likely the width of the rings. Looks like you need to know the width of the rings on your pistons, likely top and second 1.5mm and oil ring 3mm, but you need to measure them. Other than that there is not much else except the size to worry about. Larry

Rings

Or:

Other rings differetn thickness:

[This message has been edited by trotterlg (edited 07-03-2013).]

I don't know the "Conversion", but : top is .045", second is .058", and oil is .078 - bore 3.8000"

So if you do the math it looks like you need the 1.2 1.5 2.0mm rings. If you have the stand bore just get standard rings. Just a bit of advice from an old guy, if you do not have it re-bored, you will likely be much better off with cheaper rings, like cast iron ones, or something less than the high end stuff. Slightly softer rings will seat in a lot better if you have a bore that is less than perfect, (which you have) so don't waste money buying high end rings when you are going to do a re-ring with old pistons and slightly worn bores. Larry

Best deal I have found for them, standard size only, looks good to me. Larry

rings

That IS the best price I've seen. Thanks

That link is for NON SC, but they Do Have the rings for SC at the same price. I ordered a set. Thanks

As long as they are 1.2, 1.5 and 2mm set then life is good. Larry

Forgive me, I only read the title... So here you go...

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-Brian

My 87 GT Poly Suspension Upgrade (all pics) thread
Removing the roof panel
My HUD install thread
Isn't it strange that after a bombing, everyone blames the bomber, his upbringing, his environment, his culture, his mental state but … after a shooting, the problem is the gun?

Surprised they don't use the block P/N.

[This message has been edited by crashyoung (edited 07-06-2013).]

They may use several different piston types in the same block type. Larry

they DO. 3800 NA and SC use different pistons and different rings.

You already have what you need but this reply is for those who may one day use the search feature.

They were probably looking for the 8th (I think the 8th) character of the VIN to tell if it was NA or SC.

3800SC2
6-231 (3.8L), supercharger opt (VIN 1)
6-231 (3.8L), w/o supercharger opt; (VIN K)

3800SC3
(3.8L), supercharger opt (VIN 4)
(3.8L), w/o supercharger opt; (VIN 2)

Rings arrived today, haven't gotten to install yet. Real quick shipping !