Since there is a difference in the circumferential length of these rings, the Piston Ringer must be adjusted to provide maximum job opening in accordance with the length of the ring being used. To effect this adjustment, loosen the socket head cap screw and lock nut on the movable handle and pull the handle out for minimum job opening, then push handle in for maximum job opening. The proper setting for a particular ring and configuration may be found somewhere in between the maximum and minimum range of adjustment. The operator must, therefore, determine the correct setting for the ring in use and lock the capscrew and nut to hold the jaws at that position. Desired results are obtained only when the jaw spread is properly adjusted at maximum opening for a given ring.

After proper jaw adjustment has been made, it is best to work off a flat surface such as a table or bench. The ring is laid on the table with gap toward the operator. The piston ringor is placed over the ring and pushed forward so the jaws of the tool fully engage the ring ends. The handles are then compressed, thereby spreading and locking the ring with in the tool.

When removing the rings from a piston, the ring must be first wedged out of the groove and held in position by use of steel strips or some similar method of holding the rings in this position. The jaws of the two are then inserted in the ring opening and the handles of the two are compressed to spread and lock the ring with in the piston ringe. Care must be used to make certain the piston ring engages the containing ring of the piston ringer 180° from the jaws of the tool as the ring is being spread.

It is not a recommended practice to reuse piston rings once removed.

The jaws of the tool are hardened and provided with grooves designed to accommodate the ends of the angle cut rings without damage to the sharp end of the ring.