on the second rebuild we paid special attention to what rumbler and firebird suggested. My machinist double checked after re-honing for cylinder and piston roundness, then I rechecked again back at the shop. Those two items seem to be ok. I'm positive I put rings on right, followed ring instructions to the letter. Later on I spoke to Total Seal ring company and they asked me about all the specs on clearances, bore and hone job, etc. His response was "sounds like the clearances are ok." I also talked to 3 different piston companies to which one was the company of the pistons we have-Sterling-which is now owned by Federal Mogul. Same thing-sounds like all clearances are ok. You can see why I'm stumped on this problem. The only thing Total Seal could tell me was grease was a no no. Federal Mogul said it isn't the piston causing my problem, but something else. We'll go through everything again when we take it apart. This wouldn't be so bad if it was my car, but it's my bosses $30.000 '57 chevy he likes alot.
He's been real patient about this. He is a great boss. Thanks guys for trying to help me. any other thoughts, crazy or not let me know. When the problem is solved I will defenetly let you guys know! When time allows I'm going back through and seeing if I can help some of the other guys out. Some of their problems I've had in the past and would like to help like you guys have for me.