Piston Help

[jjtt]

After reading about the post in the classified section about Trailfire pistons not being correct, 09-689 not getting above 100 psi, I need replace in 79 Trailfire with a TA440A-C202 what would be the correct piston for this engine?

[Matt]

While we are on the topic, who has 09-689 in a trailfire that ARE working, and what year is it?

[tmartin]

I ran these in an 80 model and battled hard starting and finally busted the top l shaped ring. Since then I switched to GPI pistons which are an exact match to the stock casting. They have been great and are not terribly priced. I don't have numbers handy but if anyone has interest I can get them.

[jjtt]

Yes, I would be very interested in the numbers for those pistons. Thanks

[deerehunting]

So can anyone tell me whether or not to use this piston?

[tmartin]

If I were you I would use a piston from the early cats. 72-75 cheetah 440. I believe the number is 09-688 but don't quote me on that. This should be a better match. Now in the liquifires every one ive had apart has the 09-689 style in it with the L shaped top ring. I did not have luck with that in my trailfire. Whether it was a clearance issue or not I do not know. Hope this helps.

[deerehunting]

I just got done installing these 09-688 pistons in my 1980 trailfire 440, they are identical to OEM minus slightly thicker rings on the aftermarket just did my first startup today and she runs like a Deere so I'd advise going with these for the trailfire. Thanks