for arguments sake, say you'd removed the top ring of 1 piston to check the clearance in the bore, and you'd put it back on upside down, would that cause a lot of smoke when revving up after being on idle?

mine does that, but does not smoke on boost or on the overrun or anything. if that is the case, would you expect it to get better as you put more miles on the engine and wear the ring in?