How much material should I remove when filing a ring?
Documented on the Chevrolet Small Block 350 (sbc 350) build
Published March 28, 2026
Remove very small amounts and recheck frequently.
Full Answer
Remove very small amounts and recheck frequently. It's safer to file a little and re-measure than to over-file. Typically you remove only a few thousandths of an inch per iteration until the desired gap is reached.
Documented In This Build
Related Knowledge
Why do you file piston rings instead of buying pre-gapped rings?How much end gap should I aim for on a SBC 350?What if my main clearances are out of spec?Is plastigauge accurate enough for checking main clearances?How important is degreeing the cam?What torque sequence and values should I use for SBC heads?How do I set lifter preload or hydraulic lash?What should I do to prepare the engine for first start and break-in?
Related Parts
Assembly lube
$15
Main bearing set
$60
Piston ring set
$120
Plastigauge (assorted)
$8
Related Tools
Torque wrench
Engine stand
Feeler gauges
Ring filer / hand file
Micrometer / inside micrometer
Plastigauge
Ring compressor
Related Videos
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt. 6 | This Is How It's Actually Supposed To Be Done
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt.5 | Continued frustrations with rod clearances
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt. 11 | Installing the intake manifold and figuring out sbc nuisances
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt. 7 | Checking Crank Clearance and installing the rods.
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt. 8 | Installing Camshaft and timing components
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt.1 | Lifting This Engine Without Breaking It