KELROD

Hey guys I'm new to the forum. I bought a 2002 Chevy Cavalier with the 2.2L DOHC ecotec motor that needs a lot of work. The car got out of time and now there are holes in the pistons from where part of the valve stems went in them. So it needs all 4 pistons

I was thinking about using some used pistons from another motor but I don't know... I wanted to know if someone else has done this before and how well it worked. I know there is the option of getting a junkyard motor but at this time it just seems easier putting some pistons in it.

Segfault

It will work alright (have done it) although it's wrong solution. Get at least good new rings. With old rings its a wasted time.

KELROD

Are the cavalier wrist pins pressed in or are they floating?

kevinkpk

I've never seen any wrist pin pressed in on anything. I could be wrong as on this car engine I am not sure.
As stated, replace the rings. You really ought to mic them to make sure they are within specs. I highly recommend honning the cylinders as well.

kevinkpk

One thing I forgot to mention. If you go this route, you need to make sure you put the connecting rods back the way they came out. You have a wear pattern on the bearings that needs to be back the way they came out.

cleveland63b

has bad idea written all over it, what are you doing with the heads if you're just going to do salvaged pistons??

I'd either be getting new parts or a whole salvaged engine