2025 Official Welch 208cc OHV Limited Modified Rules

Jerry Welch at Welch Performance started the Limited Modified Clone Class with the help of EC Carburetors and Dyno Cams. These rules are open to the public and can be used by any track or organization at their discretion and responsibility. 
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EC's Tillotson 228R stroked to 236cc and ported.

This blog outlines the performance enhancements achieved by modifying the Tillotson 228R engine. The engine is upgraded with a WC946 Wildcat big valve head and stroked to 236cc, resulting in increased displacement, piston speed, and compression. We emphasize the importance of porting the cylinder head to enhance airflow and overall engine performance. Additionally, we compare the modified 228R with other engines, such as the Wildcat 240RS and Predator 224, highlighting the cost-effectiveness and reliability of the Tillotson engine. The post also discusses various components including camshafts, carburetors, rocker arms, spark plugs, and engine blocks, providing insights into their effects on engine performance. Overall, the blog serves as a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts looking to enhance their Tillotson engines.
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Dyno Testing the Wildcat 240RS Engine

This blog provides an in-depth analysis of the Wildcat 240RS racing engine's performance through dyno testing. Collaborating with Red Beard's Garage, we compare the Wildcat 240RS's power output and torque against other engines in the market, such as the Predator 224 and Ducar 224. We highlight the engine's 240cc displacement and robust components, emphasizing its potential to deliver superior performance in kart racing applications. Additionally, we give a cost analysis, demonstrating the value proposition of the Wildcat 240RS engine relative to its competitors.

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Introducing the Wildcat 240RS Engine

The Wildcat 240R represents the pinnacle of a decade’s worth of small engine innovation, blending proven popular parts with cutting-edge performance components. Designed specifically for mini bikes and racing go-karts, this engine delivers out-of-the-box power comparable to much more expensive alternatives. Backed by over 55 years of racing expertise and development, the Wildcat 240RS features a reinforced 72mm bore block, a longer 59mm stroke crankshaft, a high-performance WC946 cylinder head, a finely tuned 26mm carburetor, and a durable cast aluminum flywheel. With thoughtful engineering including rev-limiting ignition coils and premium spark plugs, it offers excellent performance, reliability, and value—making it an ideal platform for racers and builders seeking top-tier power and upgrade potential.
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Dyno Testing and comparing the Tillotson 228R Engine

This detailed blog explores the development and evolution of the Tillotson 228R engine, highlighting its engineering roots, key design improvements, and performance comparisons with similar karting engines like the Predator 212, Wildcat 223, and Super Ghost 223. It dives into technical insights on components such as carburetors, cylinder heads, camshafts, and flywheels, and offers practical tuning and upgrade recommendations. Additionally, the blog includes transparent troubleshooting advice from real-world testing, making it a comprehensive resource for karting enthusiasts looking to understand and optimize the 228R and related engines.
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Stroking the Predator 212 Hemi to 223cc - Road to Horsepower

Breaking Down the Predator 212 to 223cc Build: A Deep Dive with Red Beard’s Garage

Explore the ins and outs of upgrading the acclaimed Predator 212 mini bike and go-kart engine to a powerful 223cc stroker setup. We break down key differences between the Predator 212 Hemi and Non-Hemi engines, essential parts, performance upgrades, and dyno-tested results from Red Beard’s Road to Horsepower series. Whether you’re learning, experimenting, or building for power on a budget, this guide covers everything from camshafts to carburetors and beyond, helping you get the most from this affordable and popular engine platform.

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Testing the Tillotson 225RS and Tillotson 225R Engines

This in-depth blog explores the Tillotson 225RS, a popular 4-cycle TAG engine widely used in karting and mini bikes. It covers its collaboration with EC, detailed specs, and the unique features that set it apart, including its spec racing design and versatile long block option. The post dives into comprehensive performance testing—comparing different carburetors, exhaust setups, and dyno results—to evaluate power, efficiency, and value. With expert analysis and real-world implications for racers, this guide helps enthusiasts understand the 225RS’s capabilities, tuning nuances, and how small changes in setup can significantly impact track performance.
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EC's EGO Disc Clutch Explained

This blog dives into the EGO multi-disc racing clutch by EC Carburetors, exploring its advanced design tailored for karting and small engine racing. It explains how the clutch works to optimize power transfer and acceleration, compares disc clutches to traditional shoe/drum clutches, and breaks down surface area, torque ratings, and ideal applications. The post also offers detailed setup tips, engagement strategies, and troubleshooting advice to help racers and enthusiasts get the best performance and durability from their EGO clutch.
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EC's Super Ghost 223: Stroking and Modifying the Ghost 212

This blog explores why the Ghost 212 engine remains at 212cc despite the availability of a larger 224cc version, highlighting its intent to match Briggs LO206 power levels. It details a custom stroker kit developed by EC to boost the Ghost 212’s displacement to 223cc, matching competitors like the Predator 224 and Wildcat 223. The post compares costs, specs, and performance between Ghost, Tillotson, Ducar, Wildcat, and Predator engines, providing in-depth analysis on compression, airflow, torque, horsepower, and upgrade options. Installation tips, potential fitment issues, and dyno results are shared, alongside guidance on choosing between popular engine builds for karting and mini bike enthusiasts.
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EC Stroker Kits: How to measure your deck height?

Understanding Stroker Kits and Upgrading to a Super Ghost 223

In this detailed blog inspired by Red Beard’s latest video, we dive into the technical aspects of stroker kits for 212cc engines—explaining key components, piston and rod designs, and how to accurately measure deck height. Learn how increasing stroke to 58mm boosts displacement, torque, and overall engine performance. Whether upgrading a Predator, Tillotson, or Ghost engine, this guide covers everything from pistons and connecting rods to crankshaft clearance and assembly tips—setting the stage for Red Beard’s upcoming Super Ghost 223 build.

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Wildcat 223 vs Tillotson 212E Redux: Including shipping cost

Is the Wildcat 223 Still the Best Value Small Engine? Breaking Down Pricing, Shipping & Performance

After a customer raised concerns about shipping costs, we took a closer look at the real-world pricing of the Wildcat 223 compared to other popular small engines like the Tillotson 212E, Predator 224, and Ghost 212. In this blog, we revisit our dyno results from Red Beard's Garage and calculate the true cost-per-horsepower and torque of each engine—including shipping and taxes. Even at the highest shipping rates, the Wildcat 223 delivers better value and performance, especially when it comes to features, modability, and long-term reliability.

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Upgrading the Coleman B200RSV Mini Bike

Is the Coleman B200RSV the Best Budget Mini Bike? A Deep Dive into Performance and Upgrades

In this post, we take a closer look at the Coleman B200RSV—Coleman’s most advanced mini bike yet, featuring front and rear suspension, disc brakes, and a frame built for rugged trails. Red Beard's Garage puts the bike to the test, upgrading its suspension and building out the stock 196cc engine to rival the Ghost 212 in power. We break down the cost, parts, and performance of this build and compare it to popular engines like the Wildcat 223 and Predator 212. If you're wondering whether to upgrade your stock 196 or swap in something bigger, this is the guide you need.

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EC's Stage 3 Wildcat 223 built by Red Beard's Garage.

Wildcat 223 Stage 3 Upgrade – More Air, Bigger Power

In this blog, we dive into the Stage 3 performance kit for the Wildcat 223, answering common questions and analyzing new dyno results. Building on the foundation of Stage 2, the Stage 3 kit adds a 26mm round slide carb, billet intake, .265 cam, and upgraded internals—pushing the engine into a new tier of performance. We explore the impact of ported vs. non-ported heads, show how airflow is the key to unlocking power, and compare results with popular builds like the Predator 212. With gains of up to 32% horsepower and a broader powerband, this setup proves the Wildcat 223 is ready to run with the best—and we’re not done yet. Stage 4 is coming.

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EC's Stage 2 "Ghostbuster" Wildcat 223

Wildcat 223 Stage 2 “Ghostbuster” Upgrade – Red Beard’s Road to Horsepower Continues

In the latest installment of Red Beard’s “Road to Horsepower” series, the Wildcat 223 receives a Stage 2 upgrade—nicknamed the Ghostbuster. This build is designed to match and exceed the performance of the Ghost 212, while maintaining reliability and drivability. Featuring a billet flywheel, forged rod, non-rev limited coil, and a performance camshaft, the Stage 2 Wildcat delivers more torque, a wider powerband, and nearly 2 more horsepower over the Ghost. In this blog, we break down the reasons behind each upgrade, compare dyno results, and show why this budget-friendly beast isn’t afraid of any Ghost.


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EC's Wildcat 223 Stage One Budget Build

In a recent video, Red Beard’s Garage dives into the Wildcat 223 engine, showcasing essential upgrades for unlocking its full potential. This blog expands on his budget-friendly Stage One build, focusing on key modifications like removing the governor, installing a flywheel, connecting rod, valve springs, and tuning the carburetor. We explain the why behind each upgrade, the performance benefits, and how our Stage One Kit enhances power, reliability, and rpm capability. Whether you’re running a Wildcat, Predator 212, Tillotson, or Clone engine, these insights will help you build a stronger, faster engine that’s ready to perform.
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Our Follow-Up to Red Beard's Garage Wildcat 223 vs Tillotson 212E Video

This follow-up blog dives deeper into Red Beard’s latest video comparing the Wildcat 223 to other popular small-block engines like the Tillotson 212E, Predator 224, and Ghost 212. If you haven’t seen the video yet, be sure to check it out below.

We share why we partnered with Red Beard—his commitment to transparency, education, and unbiased reviews aligns with our mission to grow the mini bike and karting community. This blog expands on key topics from the video: dyno testing accuracy, performance comparisons, dollar-per-horsepower value, and technical breakdowns of components like heads, pistons, and blocks.

Whether you're new to engine mods or looking for data-driven insight before your next build, this blog offers an in-depth look at engine performance, value, and upgrade potential.

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What Engine Oil do I need to run for my 4-cycle mini bike or racing go kart?

Choosing the right engine oil is one of the most common yet misunderstood questions in motorsports. Whether you’re running a Predator, Clone, or Tillotson engine, this blog breaks down the complexities of engine oil selection—from synthetic vs. conventional, to racing-specific and methanol-fueled engines. We dive deep into additive chemistry, viscosity grades, and the unique demands of high-RPM, splash-lubricated, air-cooled small engines. With clear recommendations and technical insight, this guide helps racers, builders, and enthusiasts make informed decisions that protect performance and engine life—starting with break-in oil and ending with race-day setups.
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Explaining Cam Twisting the Briggs LO206

Cam twisting in the Briggs & Stratton LO206 class has sparked heated debates across the karting community. This blog explores the controversy, originally raised by Krybaby Performance, surrounding camshaft timing manipulation and the lack of a defined centerline rule. We break down how cam twisting works, its real impact on performance, how it influences racing strategy, and whether it risks damaging your engine. More importantly, we explore the broader implications for the LO206 class and why it's time for Briggs to tighten the camshaft rules. If you're an LO206 racer, this is a must-read.
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EC's 2023 Small Engine Builders Guide

Tired of guessing which parts to use for your engine build? This blog is your go-to builder’s guide, offering curated parts recommendations for popular small engines like the Predator 212, Predator 224, Wildcat 223, and more. Whether you’re after recreational performance or building a full race motor, we break down each engine class—Recreational, Street/Strip, Stock Appearing, and Open Modified—with recommended cams, carbs, heads, and more. Each section includes performance expectations, power bands, clutch engagement ranges, and direct links to the necessary parts. Stop the guesswork—start building with confidence.
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EC at PRI and New Parts Timeline

EC at PRI and New Parts Timeline

Check out the new parts we debuted at the Peformance Racing Industry Expo. We give a quick run down of the parts with expected time frames and cost estimates. 
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Clearance-ing the Predator 224 and Wildcat 58mm crankshafts

If you're running a Predator 224, Wildcat 223, or any engine with a 58mm crankshaft, this guide is essential reading. We break down the common clearance issues between aftermarket camshafts, connecting rods, and the wider crankshaft counterweights—issues that can destroy your engine if not properly addressed. Learn how to identify and fix camshaft compression release conflicts, lobe interference, and rod-to-block contact. Whether you're building for performance or reliability, this post covers the key fitment details and best practices to keep your engine running strong.
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Harbor Freight Ghost 212: How can it help karting?

Harbor Freight Ghost 212: How can it help karting?

For a few years now, Harbor Freight's Ghost 212 engine has been just that, a ghost. The rumors that Harbor Freight was making a karting-specific variation of its popular 212cc engines have been highly debated on social media and 4-cycle karting
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2022 Small Engine Builder's Dyno Challenge

The 2022 Small Engine Builder's Dyno Challenge is an organized Dyno Competition for small industrial based engines used in mini bike and kart racing. This years challenge had many new builders and more than one record breaker. Find out what some of the best small racing engines make on the Heartbreaker dyno.
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