We supply high-quality, cast-iron and aluminum, heavy-duty pistons. The majority of our pistons are made form aluminum, due to the obvious weight advantage over cast iron.

While most of our pistons are currently made by the permanent mold method, our latest development is the unique Liqui-Forged®, or squeeze cast, method. In this process, molten aluminum is actually squeezed under extreme pressure in the mold. The key purpose for applying pressure is to eliminate micro-porosity (air pockets), which is more prevalent in pistons manufactured by the permanent mold process. Thus the Liqui-Forged pistons are manufactured by the use of a patented Clevite process.

Many of our aluminum pistons are cast with Ni-Resist groove inserts, which are bonded into the top, or the top and second ring grooves. these metallurgically-bonded, high-nickel iron inserts extend the life of the piston by reducing groove wear. Ultra-sonic testing assures quality and integrity in the bonding process.

Another quality feature of Clevite pistons are the ring grooves, which effectively seal the combustion gases in the chamber. close tolerances prevent blow-by and also prevent lubricating and cooling oil from entering the combustion area.

For selected Caterpillar® applications, we provide pistons with a stainless steel heat plug which is required on pre-combustion design engines.

We have added more machined valve pockets on specialized applications. Machining allows for better control of the size and shape of the valve pockets, and improves piston appearance.

Our Sled Runner™ piston design refers to the fact that the skirt is slightly wider at the bottom of the piston. Thus the clearance between the inside diameter of the sleeve and the piston skirt is tighter with the Sled Runner Design. This reduces noise levels by reducing piston slap. Liner vibration and cavitation are also reduced by limiting the rocking action of the piston against the inside diameter of the sleeve.

Many of our aluminum pistons incorporate a wavy grind surface finish on the pistons skirt to retain oil, promote lubrication and resist scuffing.