So since I have both genuine and Chinese rings it might be useful to compare them. First of all some pics. The Chinese ones (top) come with torn labels. And here are the results. Note that the spec measurements are for a new engine, not a wear limit. So, points of interest: Genuine are very consistent Chinese oil rings have up to 10 microns variance in thickness Chinese oil rings have tighter end gaps than OEM Chinese top rings have looser end gaps than genuine My engine has hardly any wear at all And this is how I measured them. These rings are tiny little things and you need a deft touch. So what can we conclude about the Chinese rings? Well this will be an opinion of course, but I think they have done quite a reasonable job of holding to tolerance. They also cost way less than OEM, especially if you have to pay taxes, (once in Japan and once in Thailand) and tariff, like me. We don't know what the Chinese rings are made of though. I have not finished cleaning my pistons to the point that I can check the side clearance in the ring lands, yet. When I do, I will add those values to this post. cheers Blair
On a whim I ordered a set of rings from aliexpress - they were photographed in a box, but arrived in sealed plastic bags, delivered very quickly I might add. All for the princely sum of ~$20 They have coating of protective oil in the bag, through a loupe they are extremely well finished, have the laser etched codes on them and a small dab of paint on the edge of one to aid in identification and orientation Quick measurement as my eyes are tired from writing a legal submission all day - I got 7.80 for both top and second rings for thickness - I'll have another tomorrow to see if I can get that to micron tolerance I haven't checked the oil scraper rings or end gaps as yet Thus far, I am impressed