SKU: 281916 / UPC: 193564249838
JE Pistons GM 502 Replacement Pistons: 4.470 Bore, 8.7-9.6:1 Compression Ratio, 1cc Dome - Set of 8
The JE Pistons 281916 forged piston kit for enthusiasts demanding the best in durability, power, and reliability. Unlike inferior cast OEM replacements or budget aftermarket options, these forged 4032 aluminum alloy pistons from JE's renowned SRP line deliver up to 20% lighter weight, exceptional tensile strength, and minimal thermal expansion for high-RPM street/strip applications. Engineered for normally aspirated or moderate forced induction setups, they outperform competitors like Wiseco or Mahle in heat resistance, ring seal, and overall longevity, making them the top-ranked upgrade for maximizing torque and horsepower while ensuring quiet operation and reduced piston-to-wall clearance. Don't settle for less choose JE Pistons 281916 for the ultimate balance of affordability and race-proven engineering, proudly made 100% in the USA.
Why These Are the Best Choice for Your GM 502 Build
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Performance Edge: Forged from high-silicon 4032 aluminum with dedicated FSR forging technology, these pistons provide better strength-to-weight ratio than cast or hypereutectic alternatives, handling higher loads and nitrous boosts without failure. CNC-machined domes with radiused valve reliefs and accumulator grooves ensure optimal ring seal and combustion efficiency, boosting power output over stock GM pistons.
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Proven Reliability: Designed as a direct OEM replacement but with upgraded features like forced pin oiling and low-drag skirt coating, they reduce friction, extend engine life, and support compression ratios from 8.7:1 to 9.6:1 for versatile tuning – ideal for outperforming other brands in dyno tests and real-world racing.
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Value and Versatility: At a competitive price point, these pistons bridge the gap between economy and premium performance, offering quiet piston operation and compatibility with standard rings, making them the smartest investment for sportsman budgets seeking elite results.
Detailed Specifications
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Part Number/SKU: 281916
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UPC: 193564249838
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Bore Diameter: 4.470 inches (optimized for +0.004" over stock GM 502 bore of 4.466" for enhanced clearance and performance)
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Piston Type: Dome with +1.00 cc volume
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Compression Ratio: 8.7:1 to 9.6:1 (varies by head chamber volume: 8.7:1 with 124cc heads, 9.0:1 with 118cc heads, 9.6:1 with 112cc heads)
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Compression Height: 1.645 inches
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Stroke Compatibility: 4.000 inches
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Rod Length Compatibility: 6.135 inches
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Piston Material: Forged high-silicon 4032 aluminum alloy for superior heat dissipation and strength
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Average Piston Weight: 699 grams (lighter than traditional equivalents for reduced inertia and faster revs)
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Wrist Pin Diameter: 0.990 inches
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Wrist Pin Length: 2.930 inches
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Wrist Pin Wall Thickness: 0.150 inches
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Wrist Pin Material: 5115 alloy steel
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Ring Groove Sizes: Accepts standard 1/16" top, 1/16" second, 3/16" oil rings for easy installation and optimal sealing
Additional Features: CNC-machined ring grooves, high-performance skirt coating, accumulator grooves, and radiused valve reliefs for maximum efficiency
What's Included:
This complete JE Pistons 281916 kit is ready for your GM 502 rebuild, including everything needed for a hassle-free installation:
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Pistons: Set of 8 forged dome pistons
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Ring Set: Full high-performance ring set (1/16" x 1/16" x 3/16" thicknesses) for superior sealing and low drag
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Wrist Pins: Set of 8 premium 5115 material pins (part #990-2930-15-51S, 150 grams each)
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Pin Fitting Accessories: Included for precise assembly
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Retainer Locks: Double spiro locks (part #990-042-CS) for secure wrist pin retention
Note: All components are pre-matched and coated for immediate use no additional machining required beyond standard engine prep.
Vehicle Fitment:
These JE Pistons are engineered as direct replacements for GM 502 crate engines (8.2L big-block V8), fitting a wide range of Chevrolet vehicles where big-block swaps or rebuilds are common. Ideal for performance upgrades in classic muscle cars, trucks, and boats. Compatible models include:
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Chevrolet Chevelle: 1964–1977 (all big-block variants)
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Chevrolet El Camino: 1964–1987
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Chevrolet Malibu: 1978–1983
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Chevrolet Camaro: 1967–1972 (big-block equipped models)
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Chevrolet Corvette: 1965–1974 (big-block options)
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Chevrolet Impala/Caprice: 1970–1976
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Chevrolet C/K Series Trucks (including Suburban): 1970–1996 (where 454/502 big-blocks were installed or swapped)
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Chevrolet Vans (Express/G-Series): 1970–1996 (big-block applications)
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Marine/Boat Applications: Various GM 502-equipped vessels from 1980s–2000s
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Engine Specifics: Fits all GM/Chevrolet 502 HO, ZZ502/502, and similar big-block crate engines (displacement: 502 ci / 8.2L). Not for factory-installed 502s, as the 502 was primarily a crate/over-the-counter engine, but perfect for custom builds in any compatible big-block chassis.
Upgrade today with the JE Pistons 281916 – the #1 choice for GM 502 replacement pistons that dominate in power, precision. Search no further for the best forged 4.470 bore pistons for your big-block Chevy build!