1989 DS Piston orientation

[Paul G.]

I am about to install a new piston. On the top of the piston is an "L" and "R". Is "L" left side (that being the driver's side)? And "R" the passenger side? If so the old piston that i am replacing in is in reverse. I do see the connecting rod has been striking something. Any advice?

[Springbok]

I believe that the way the old piston is in there now is the correct orientation. But it does seem backwards, most vehicle references to left versus right are from the perspective of sitting in the car facing forward...apparently this isn't like that.

Here's a thread with some pictures:

http://www.buggiesgonewild.com/gas-c...d-rebuild.html

Good luck!

[Paul G.]

I installed the piston as shown in the picture but it was wrong. The piston was hitting something inside the engine (not bad enough to cause failure but quite loud). I reorientated the piston to L - drivers side and R to passenger side and the ticking stopped. I do suspect my connecting rod and crank bearing are worn so it might have made the tolerance too tight and caused the knocking.