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EC Stage 3 Performance Kit for Wildcat 223 Engine
EC Stage 3 Performance Kit for Wildcat 223 Engine
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EC Stage 3 Performance Kit for Wildcat 223 Engine

Part Number: 223-003
Online Price: $389.99
Stage 3 Kit for Wildcat 223 – High RPM Engine Upgrade
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Description

EC’s Stage 3 Performance Kit for Wildcat 223 Engines


Unlock Tillotson 225R-Level Performance—Without the Premium Price

Looking to unleash the full potential of your Wildcat 223 engine? EC’s Stage 3 Performance Kit is engineered to deliver the horsepower, torque, and high-RPM capability of the legendary Tillotson 225R, but at a fraction of the cost.


With near-identical displacement—223.93cc (225R) vs. 223.21cc (Wildcat 223)—this kit turns your existing engine into a high-revving, race-ready powerhouse. Whether you're building a competitive kart, a street-dominating mini bike, or just want more pull on the track, this kit delivers serious gains in power, reliability, and throttle response.


Why Upgrade to EC's Stage 3 Kit?


The Stage 3 upgrade introduces two major performance enhancements:

  • A high-flow WC22 round slide carburetor
  • An aggressive .265" lift camshaft

These core components transform the engine’s behavior above 4500 RPM, unlocking explosive acceleration, broader mid-range torque, and a much higher power ceiling—perfect for short-track racing, high-speed passes, and demanding performance applications.

Recommended Clutch Engagement:

  • Ideal: 3800–5000 RPM
  • Minimum: 3500 RPM


What’s Included in the EC Stage 3 Kit

1. Wildcat WC22 Round Slide Carburetor Kit

  • Based on the PZ26, re-engineered with custom EC casting and fuel calibration.
  • Flows approximately 85 CFM, ideal for ported cylinder heads.
  • Optimized for Wildcat 223, GX200, Tillotson, and 196cc Clone platforms.
    Pro Tip: Port your head to take full advantage of the carburetor’s airflow capacity.


2. TTS-265 Banzai Camshaft + 26lb Valve Springs

  • Precision-ground .265” lift cam with a wide, flat torque curve from 4500 to 7000+ RPM.
  • Used in high-performance karting and Tillotson 225RS engines.
  • Produces a broad powerband—perfect for sprints, short tracks, and high-rev builds.


3. Rev Wheel Billet Aluminum Flywheel

  • Low-drag fin design for reduced rotational resistance.
  • Built-in 34° ignition timing with high-energy neodymium magnets for a more efficient spark.
  • Improves throttle response, combustion stability, and top-end power.


4. EC 3.303 Pinnacle Forged Connecting Rod

  • Designed to handle 5500+ RPM operation with ease.
  • Strengthens the rotating assembly for long-term reliability under extreme conditions.
  • Precision-machined and balanced for smooth performance.


5. 70mm Fire Ring Head Gasket

  • Composite gasket with an embedded fire ring for superior sealing.
  • Prevents head-lift and blowouts, especially in aluminum block and head combinations.
  • More reliable under temperature cycling than thin steel gaskets.


6. Replacement Side Cover Gasket

  • Included for convenience when replacing your camshaft.
  • Ensures a clean, leak-free reassembly process.


Exhaust Header Note (Not Included)

To allow for customization, this kit does not include an exhaust header.

Fitment Guidelines:

  • Must use a header with a minimum ID of .870"
  • Optimal performance: Headers with .930" to .960" ID (no muffler)
  • If using a muffler, use only the 4106 RLV Muffler

Avoid screw-on lawnmower mufflers and restrictive “weenie” pipe systems—they severely limit performance.

Need help choosing a header? Browse our Exhaust Section or contact us directly for a recommendation.


Recommended Fluids & Ignition Setup

Engine Oil:

  • Break-In: Maxima 5W-16
  • Running: Maxima RS 0W-20

Spark Plug:

  • Torch K7RTI Fine Wire Iridium
    • Improves cold starts, ignition timing accuracy, and combustion.
    • Gap: .026" to .032"

Avoid Autolite 3910X – These plugs often foul quickly in gas engines, leading to misfires, poor throttle response, and tuning issues.

FAQ

Q1: What kind of performance can I expect from the Stage 3 Kit on my Wildcat 223?

You can expect Tillotson 225R-level performance with noticeable increases in horsepower, torque, and RPM range. The Stage 3 Kit significantly improves acceleration and top-end speed, especially from 4500 RPM and up, depending on your carb tuning, header selection, and porting.


Q2: How does the Wildcat 223 compare to the Tillotson 225R?

Displacement is nearly identical—223.21cc for the Wildcat 223 vs. 223.93cc for the Tillotson 225R. With this kit installed, the Wildcat can match or exceed the 225R in power output when properly tuned and ported.


Q3: Can I install this kit without porting the head?

Yes, but for maximum performance, especially to utilize the full 85 CFM flow from the WC22 carburetor, porting your cylinder head is highly recommended. Without porting, the carburetor and cam may not reach their full potential.


Q4: Is this kit plug-and-play?

The kit is bolt-on friendly, but some mechanical skill is required. You'll need to:

  • Remove and replace the camshaft, flywheel, and connecting rod
  • Set ignition timing and valve lash
  • Tune the carburetor
    We recommend this kit for experienced builders or those comfortable with small engine internals.


Q5: What clutch engagement range is ideal for this setup?

For best performance, set your clutch to engage between 3800–5000 RPM.
Do not go below 3500 RPM, as lower engagement can bog the engine and reduce acceleration.


Q6: What exhaust header should I use with this kit?

Use headers with:

  • A minimum inside diameter (ID) of .870"
  • Optimal ID range: .930"–.960"
    Avoid restrictive headers like screw-on lawnmower mufflers or “weenie” pipes. If your class requires a muffler, use only the 4106 RLV Muffler.


Q7: Is the Wildcat WC22 carburetor a real Mikuni?

No, the WC22 is based on the PZ26 but features original EC casting and custom fuel calibration. It is tuned specifically for GX200/Clone/Tillotson/Wildcat engines and performs better than most VM22 knock-offs on the market.


Q8: What oil and spark plug should I use for best results?

  • Break-In Oil: Maxima 5W-16
  • Running Oil: Maxima RS 0W-20
  • Recommended Spark Plug: Torch K7RTI Iridium
    • Gap: .026"–.032"
      Avoid Autolite 3910X plugs—they tend to foul early in gas-powered builds and cause misfires and tuning issues.


Q9: Is this kit legal in stock or spec karting classes?

Likely not legal in most stock classes due to the camshaft and carburetor upgrades. Always check your class rulebook or contact your race director before installing.


Q10: Will this work on other 223cc engines or clones?

This kit is designed specifically for the Wildcat 223, but it shares compatibility with other GX200-style clones, including some 196cc and 212cc blocks with proper fitment. If you're running a non-Wildcat 223 engine, confirm component compatibility or contact us before purchasing.

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