what is the difference between a standard tension oil ring and a low tension oil ring?

 

On a C&A ring the standard oil ring will have a ring tension of approx. 14 to 16 lbs and a low tension at 9 to 10 lbs. The low tension will stablize to 8 lbs after run in. Alot of other ring set have alot higher standard ring tension some as high as 25 to 30 lbs. Have tried low tensions with varius hone finishes and haven't found a way to eleveate oil consuption. It's not real bad but uses oil non the less.
If it's a street driven engine I'd stay with a std tension ring. I'm asuming it is a 3/16 oil ring. If it is a race only or don't care about oil consumption (or fouled plug once in a while) I'd use the low tension or a 3mm ring.
The C&A ring and Total seal brand (not the gapless rings) rings have alot lower tension then most ring set but still enuff not to cause oil consumption.

 

Leave the low tension rings for the race engines that are naturally asperated and run vacuum pumps..Street cars need standard tension rings..Thinner rings are ok but not for boost or spray..Gm switched to thin metric rings years ago and oil consumption has went up only by a small margin..

 

For the street stay with the standard tension oil ring. A lot of this comes down to the block too. The late model blocks, being thinner in areas, would do well to stay standard-tension. A bow-tie or good aftermarket block can get by with a lower tension oil ring on the street without consumption worries, especially with an evac system. Bore stability plays a big part here.

-Mindgame