I would think the ring gaps if under the spec (gap to small)
you have room to alter the spec to what it should be, if the gap was to big
then you would have problems,the thing is if to small the rings can break, this the main reason to check the gap yes as they wear the gap will get
bigger, as all engines wear with mileage if you built it or are building it now, correct them, to within the spec, are the rings new if so ask with your supplier,
( THOUGHT YOU HAD THE OLD RS ENGINE PINTO)
until now, zetec

DAVE R,