Originally Posted by
steve111
The very good engine builder I know will tell you that the contra must be pressed in from the BOTTOM, carbon crystals notwithstanding. The carbon threat is dealt with by careful cleaning.
Yes, of course it must be pressed in from the bottom!
I've been wondering how many of the respondents above recommending the contrary have ever assembled a conventional diesel.
The taper lapped into the the cylinder dictates this necessity.. The bore is wider at the ports than at the top. Inserting from the top and tapping it into place will ruin it's fit.
Tapping a tight contra from just above the ports to just below the cylinder top and back again a few times to loosen it slightly is another matter. It's acceptable practice.