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Low Tension 68mm Piston Rings for Honda GX200/Clone Engines
138190009 Tillotson Clone 68mm Standard Low Tension Rings - Packaged
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Low Tension 68mm Piston Rings for Honda GX200/Clone Engines

Part Number: 138190009
Online Price: $6.99
Low Tension 68mm Piston Rings for Honda GX200 & Clone Engines – Tillotson
Availability: In Stock.

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Description

Low Tension 68mm Piston Rings for Honda GX200 & Clone Engines – Tillotson 138190009


The Tillotson 138190009 Low Tension Piston Rings are specifically engineered for standard 68mm bore clone engines, offering approximately 45% lower tension than stock rings. Unlike traditional low-tension rings that are stress-relieved through heat cycling, these rings are precision-built from the factory to reduce friction while maintaining excellent durability and consistent sealing.


Lower ring tension reduces internal engine drag—one of the largest sources of friction in a 4-stroke engine. The result? Improved ring seal, reduced resistance, and in many cases, increased overall engine efficiency and performance.


Key Features:

  • Low tension design – ~45% less tension than stock rings
  • Factory-built, not heat-relieved – for better consistency and longevity
  • Standard 68mm bore size – direct fit for most 196cc clone engines
  • Improved ring seal – enhances performance and reduces friction
  • Includes all 3 rings – 1mm top ring (chrome-faced), 1mm second ring, and 2.5mm oil control ring


Engine Compatibility:

These rings are designed to fit standard bore 68mm clone pistons found in:

  • Tillotson 196R / RS
  • Ducar 196
  • Box Stock Project (BSP) 196
  • Speed Kart 196
  • Other 196cc clone engines
  • Important Fitment Note:
    If you're using a Honda GX200 or GX160 engine, you must use a clone piston for compatibility. Honda OEM pistons use different ring groove dimensions.


Rulebook Compliance

AKRA 2020 Rules for Rings

Top ring and middle ring .115" max-width, .060" max thickness.) Filing of ring end gaps permitted including oil expander, max end gap .040" (top rings only.) The lapping of rings permitted for proper seal. Piston Ring must be on the piece (unbroken) when presented for tech. Piston Rings must be self-supporting in the cylinder bore when checked installed on the piston with a connecting rod attached (rod cap and bolts installed are not required for this check). 


NKA 2020 Rules for Rings:

40.4.13: Piston Rings

40.4.13.1: It is mandatory that all three rings be intact and functional.

40.4.13.2: Top ring must be the chrome face ring

40.4.13.3: No alterations of rings are permitted.

40.4.13.4: Ring Sizes

 Top Ring

.058" +/-.005" height & .115" maximum width.

 Middle Ring

.058" +/-.005" height & .115" maximum width.

 Oil Expander Ring (reference)

.095" +/-.005" height & .092" +/-.005" width

40.4.14: Ring Tension Requirement

Top two rings must support themselves in the cylinder when removed from the piston. They cannot fall through the cylinder.

Bottom ring is a non-tech item regarding tension. Bottom expander ring & two rail rings, when mounted on piston and rod in place should support the piston in

the cylinder when inserted upside-down.

40.4.15: Ring Tension Inspection Procedure

Top 2 rings must support themselves without assistance in the cylinder.

Each of the top two rings should be placed, individually, approx. one inch

(1") down in the cylinder.

Square ring with piston turned upside down.

 If ring supports itself it is legal.



The Tillotson 138190009 68mm Low Tension Piston Rings offer a high-performance, race-legal option for reducing engine friction in GX200 and 196cc clone engines. Designed for consistent sealing and smoother engine operation, they’re a top choice for kart racers seeking legal performance gains without compromising durability.

FAQ

1. What’s the benefit of low tension piston rings?

Low tension rings reduce friction against the cylinder wall, which helps free up horsepower and improve ring seal. This can lead to better engine performance and reduced wear.


2. What engines do these rings fit?

These rings are made for standard bore (68mm) clone engines, including:

  • Tillotson 196R / RS
  • Ducar 196
  • BSP 196
  • Speed Kart 196
  • Most 196cc clone platforms

They do not fit Honda GX200 pistons directly unless you're using a clone-style piston.


3. Are these piston rings legal for AKRA and NKA competition?

Yes. These rings are built to comply with both AKRA and NKA tech rules:

  • Correct width, height, and ring tension
  • Chrome-faced top ring included
  • All three rings must be intact and self-supporting in the bore


4. Can I use these rings in a Predator 212 or Ghost 212?

Not directly. These rings are specifically sized for 68mm clone pistons. Most Predator 212 and Ghost 212 engines have different bore sizes and piston ring dimensions.


5. Do I need to gap or modify the rings before installation?

You can file the ring end gaps (especially the top ring) to achieve proper clearance during assembly. Lapping is also permitted for sealing, but modifying ring structure or tension is not allowed per most racing rules.

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