I use my thumbs to lightly spread the ring ends , while fitting the ring over the piston .
Piston mounted on the rod with clips in place should flop freely .
Rings in proper position on the piston .
Piston gets started into the cylinder , until stopped by the top ring . That insures the piston is going in straight .
I use my fingernails or a small screwdriver to seat the rings in the landings .
The beveled edge at the bottom of the cylinder helps to finish seating the rings , allowing the piston to move up for a repeat on the lower ring .
Don't forget to place the base gasket before starting that^ process . ;)