piston rings

Definitely test the engine before deciding you need new rings. Many people here jump into pulling the head, then find the head gasket was fine (not reason for their over-heating, like Billy-Bob told them), cylinder walls look new, then wish they had checked compression first. First, just turn the engine over by hand, tugging on the fan belts, and feel for each cylinder (3/rev). If all feel strong and you hear them hiss down, your engine sounds excellent.

If you do re-ring, many people do that w/ block in car. I have, but never a slant. I always flow new oil thru, using a little pump-up garden sprayer in the oil switch hole. That way clean oil flows out the bearings, washing out any water or grit, plus primes the engine. You don't want any stone grit from honing left on the cylinder walls, so clean thoroughly by whatever means.