okay, I'm installing my rods (scat H-beam) onto my pistons (KB forged). They are floating pins with spiral locks at each end. Whats the best way to install these spiral locks?

Small screw driver...

Spread them and start one end into the groove. Then take a small screwdriver and keep working the lock by pushing down on it. They will spiral into place. Once you have done a couple they get easy.

Spread them out kind of like a key-ring and spiral them in. BTW, make sure you got the pistons on right. If you think they're tough to get in, wait till you try to take them out.

The instructions will illustrate. Don't spread them too far or bend them to where one end is cocked. 1/2" spread is enough. Small size flat tip. Spin the end of lock into groove as much as you can. Hold that end in place and use the flat tip to work your way aroung pushing the lock into place. As said, you do a few and you'll figure out what works best.

This months hot rod magazine has a tool for spiro-locks from this company.

http://www.lockintool.com/

If you put the eyebrows to the outside you're gonna be a bit upset w yourself. If no valve reliefs reversing the pin offset (if your pistons have an offset pin) you can live w that & may prefer it.

Those both deal with how the piston & rod are situated in the motor, & I'm aware of that. I thought he meant there was something that could be wrong with how the piston is mounted on the rod. I think we're good.

Thanks again, guys!