Want to thank you for replying to my message. Am new to the forum and didnt get much feedback. Both you and another post agreee the rings were probably gapped wrong. I like to know and understand what Im talking about and willing to learn from whatever sources I can. I do feel this machinist is at least partly at fault and would like him to accept responsibility and the more info I can get the more knowledgable Ill sound when I approach him for some reimbursment for the second rebuild. Dont worry, not only will I never use this machinist again but am making it a point to make sure everyone I know wont use him either... Thanks again...