Automotive workshop tool, the Draper Piston Ring Compressor, compresses piston rings securely for engine assembly. Confidence for mechanics who need a reliable, easy to use clamp during rebuilds. Does the tool bring enough reliability and control to deserve a place in the garage?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Clamping Range: 50-175mm diameter capacity
- • Best for: Home mechanics and professional garages performing piston installation
- • Not ideal for: Applications requiring compression outside the 50-175mm diameter range
Spring steel clamp secures rings from 50 to 175mm using a ratchet mechanism and safety valve. Steel tensioning key and thumb release locking mechanism simplify tensioning and removal, supported by a 12-month parts and labour warranty.
Secure, even compression - thanks to the spring steel clamp and ratchet mechanism
Spring steel provides resilient, uniform radial pressure while the ratchet mechanism allows stepwise tightening with a safety valve to prevent over-tensioning. The thumb release locks the clamp in place during insertion.
Consistent pressure reduces the risk of ring distortion and makes sliding pistons into cylinders much less fiddly, particularly on aligned, narrow bores.
Faster, controlled operation - with the steel tensioning key
The steel tensioning key engages the ratchet to increase tension precisely and repeatably, avoiding sudden movements during tightening. The key gives mechanical advantage for secure clamping with minimal effort.
Repeatable tightening saves time across multiple pistons and helps maintain consistent installation practice in small repair runs.
Safer release and handling - thanks to the thumb release locking mechanism
Thumb release disengages the locking pawl in a controlled action, allowing gradual loosening rather than abrupt spring-back. The mechanism reduces the chance of rings catching on the compressor edge.
Controlled release protects rings and hands, making the task less prone to accidental damage or injury.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Draper Piston Ring Compressor
- Spring steel construction - Ensures durable, even pressure that prevents ring deformation
- Ratchet mechanism with safety valve - Allows incremental tightening without risking over-tensioning
- Thumb-release locking mechanism - Enables quick, safe release to avoid ring snags during removal
- Steel tensioning key included - Provides controlled, repeatable tightening for consistent results
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Automotive Parts and Accessories
- Capacity (diameter): 50-175mm
- Height: 3 inch
- Material: Spring steel clamp, steel tensioning key
- Mechanism: Ratchet mechanism with safety valve
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What diameter range does the compressor cover?
A: The compressor covers piston ring diameters from 50mm up to 175mm.
Q: Does the tool include a tensioning key?
A: Yes, a steel tensioning key is included for tightening the clamp via the ratchet mechanism.
Q: Is there any warranty included?
A: Draper provides a 12 months parts and labour warranty.
🏆 Our Verdict
Suitable for home mechanics and professional garages that need reliable piston ring compression across a wide range of common engine sizes. The combination of a spring steel clamp, ratchet with safety valve, thumb-release lock and included steel tensioning key delivers controlled, repeatable compression. Expect strong long-term value thanks to sturdy materials and a 12-month parts and labour warranty.
