Stuck rings

I have a problem: I'm prepping the pistons to install in my tow vehicle engine - they have been sitting around for, well, decades. I got the rings out of all but one piston, but this one has the rings stuck against the piston & I can't get them out. The others were expanded & gave me something to work with, but they were still a pain to get out. Anyone know any tricks?
For that matter, ditto on the wristpins....
Thanks,
~ Paul
aka "Tha Driver"

Giggle Cream - it makes dessert *funny*!

 

Heat'em up with a propane torch. The aluminum will expand more than the steel/iron rings and wrist pin. Just don't heat them so much that they melt.

 

Thanks Bugman for the suggestion; I'll have to wait 'till I can afford some oxygen for my torch. I don't have a propane unit.

They are not gummed up they are more like dried out & corroded. I've been soaking them with PB Blaster but only for a couple days so far.

 

try kerosene or diesel fuel.

 

I have had the same problem

I soaked mine in ATF / auto trans fluid

for a few days and it helps to remove the gum