What is the standarad clearance between piston and sleeve?
The standard clearance between piston and sleeve depends on the engine design and the materials used. Generally, it ranges from 0.0015 to 0.004 inches (0.04 to 0.1 mm) for gasoline engines and from 0.002 to 0.006 inches (0.05 to 0.15 mm) for diesel engines. This clearance is necessary to allow for the expansion of the piston as it heats up during operation and to ensure proper lubrication of the moving parts. Excessive clearance can lead to loss of compression, increased noise and vibration, and premature wear of the piston and sleeve. Insufficient clearance can cause the piston to seize or scuff the sleeve.