Question on piston rings, 69 911S

[NV Stig]

My car is going to need new piston rings, it's blowing a lot of smoke. Compression is still pretty strong. I'm hoping the pistons and cylinder heads are still solid, and require minimal conditioning. We'll see once it's opened up.
If this turns out to be the case, can you hone the cylinders and install new rings on the existing pistons? I was told that it's not possible to hone the aluminum heads accurately due to possible heat re shaping over the years. I'm hoping this isn't the case, and that you can work with the older aluminum heads.
Thanks for your insights. I'm hoping to get out of spending a grand a jug if the major components end up being in good shape, and it's just the rings. Trying to be an optimist.
Scott

[ajwans]

Heaps of info on the pelican engine rebuilding forum but the
proper way to fix this w/o spending thousands is to get a set
of custom pistons made (i.e. JE) at 80.5 or 81mm and have your
cylinders enlarged.

The new pistons might cost $1200.

New Mahle as you know costs 3X this or more depending
on your application.

Of course if your cylinders and pistons are still in spec then
new rings may be the answer.

andy

[NV Stig]

thanks Andy,
So if the aluminum cylinders are still in spec, they can be honed? there is a possibility for for options?

[ajwans]

You should actually have biral cylinders in that which are
aluminium fins cast into an iron bore.

The iron bore can be bored or honed or even sleeved but
then you reduce the heat transferrence.

If they are all aluminium with nikasil plating they can be
replated to build them back up to spec.

andy

[JHunter]

If your cylinders are ok, within spec., and you go forward with the plan to re-ring; make sure the pistons are also within spec. The ring landing dimension is important, and can ruin your day if worn-out.

[NV Stig]

Thanks Jon and Andy. I appreciate the input. I helped a friend do a ring job on a 76 Volvo station wagon back in high school. I've never tried to delve into something like this. I appreciate the help.
Scott