Phil, there's a simple reason for the excessive ring gap- - - -the rings are worn out! Be sure to check the cylinder taper, either with a dial bore gauge, an inside micrometer, or by using an old ring and checking the gap at the top and bottom of the ring travel. Subtract the bottom gap from the top and divide by 3- - - -the result is cylinder taper, and it should be less than .005" for a successful ring job. Good luck!
Jerry

Edit: Another reason for a big ring gap would be using standard-bore rings in an oversize cylinder. Be sure to measure the cylinder and/or piston diameter and get the right size rings.
Jerry


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