Classic/Antique Car Repair: removing pistons from 283, piston ring compressor, chevy 283

Question
I bought a 283 on ebay.I want to put rings in a 66 chevy 283. Do you have to pull the crank to get the pistons out? Can you get them out from the top? Please advise.  

Answer
Martin
I would take the crank out so you can check the crank bearings or replace all of them. then with a piston ring compressor you can pop them out or with out removing the crank you can loosen the rod nuts tap the rods up a  dowel or 2x4 can pop them out,but you will need a ring compressor to put them in and each rod must go in the exact way you took them out so mark them w/ paint and the rod caps also. I would check and replace  all bearing.