Years ago in a distant nuther world a few lifetimes ago...I seem to remember
we replaced the pistons & cylinders more because the pistons themselves had
too much play in the upper ring groove with new rings in 'em. That problem
caused some pumping of oil into the combustion chamber. Seems like it was
.004 max between the ring and the piston and most with many miles had more
like .006 or 8 of clearance. That and the set wasn't that much in the whole
scheme of things to take a chance on having a comeback, so every overhaul
with very few exceptions got a new set. Granted the Boxer set is more
spendy, but the theory remains. Spend the $$ the first time around if
possible and save the heartache of having to do it again and cussing the
stupid car for the mechanics transgresions..
.02cents worth from an old school retired tech
Daryl of AA Transaxle
Duvall, WA. (Seattle area)
1-877-377-0773 toll free
425-788-4070
aatransaxle.com