The Secret Truth Of The New Predator Ghost 212cc Kart Racing Engine Review Teardown & Internal Specs

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I want to thank everyone for watching the Ghost video(s). I'm not sponsored and I don't pay for Ad campaigns. If you haven't Subscribed please take a moment to do so now or at least leave a Like on the video. It's the only way I can continue to bring you these videos and be found in the KZbin search engine. If you see me using a part or product in my videos it means I paid for it out of my pocket and I will always provide a fact based honest opinion as to whether something is worth buying or not. Thanks, Chris (Kentucky Fried Fixes)

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

yezzirrr 199%

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

thanks for showing us

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

would u happen to have a link for better valves and springs for my ducar or anything else i should order for upgrades while i have the case off BiG THANKS AGAiN FOR YOUR HELP FReiNDO

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@SpAcEcruizer203 I'll see if I can add some links for valvetrain parts in the next build video. Usually I buy that stuff online at EC carburetors or ARC. Dyno cams has a lot of replacement parts for the Ducar 212 engines too, but you might as well buy stainless valves if you're going to upgrade for sure!

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

@KentuckyFriedFixes my next motor probably will be from studs tillotson with arc flywheel and rod for 425 can't beat it or get that 225 right ?

[@999benhonda]

In the car community, there's the saying "built, not bought". It exists because many enjoy cars but not everyone can figure out how to work on an engine. The Ghost is for people who have a kart/mini bike and want more power than the base 212 without having to figure out what parts to buy or having to work on the motor

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

That's a great point but the Ghost 212 is specifically marketed as a Kart Racing engine. The specs are cleverly worded advertising to describe otherwise stock internal components. Aside from the camshaft and coil, it's a standard Predator Hemi 212 engine with a Ducar head.

[@DWinnie67]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes just the cam and coil WILL increase hp just a tad!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@DWinnie67 A 252 Rattlesnake cam is real close to the Ghost camshaft specs. I think the Mongoose 272 cam is about the same price though.

[@stevefavero3204]

Kinda feel like this engine was marketed for people who either don't wanna take the time to build an engine or people who don't intend to take them apart to find all the places they skimped on parts. I don't really believe someone in the kart racing community would shell out more than twice the money for an engine that'll inevitably need to be replaced in a few races. I think this was a marketing scheme. They took notice of all the people buying predator engines and spending 3 times what they're worth in aftermarket parts. So they released a "comparable" engine. You'd be surprised how many people bought this engine because it said racing on the box

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I share the same opinion as you Steve. Unless someone is in a karting class that specifically requires the Ghost 212 engine, it's a much better idea to build your own.

[@danbennett8026]

Hey it says only racing on the top plate also.

[@turneynicholas]

I plan on buying one for my mud motor as it's cheap and has a warranty

[@outcome2715]

It’s literally the same engine just naked and paired with a coil to rev higher 😂

[@Rebel-Neck]

Those cast iron flywheels hold up pretty well tbh. I drilled mine and did my best to keep it balanced. My mini bike would get right into the rpm’s and I was running all stock internals. Eventually my oil dipper broke and the crank bearings failed in the cases. I also had propane plumbed into a custom made pvc intake. A wot I could slowly crack the propane bottle open and feel it pick up a couple mph. Mine had a drilled out main jet on a stock carburetor, a 14tooth front sprocket and 35 tooth rear on the 19 in off-road tires. With a 30 series cvt. It was also a Hemi. I now have a ghost 212 with billet rod, billet flywheel aftermarket ignition coil, heavier valve springs, and a 196cc head that I plan to port myself. Right now tho, it has no comparison in speed or power to the first 212 Hemi I built.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I like the 224cc engines. I'd highly recommend adding a billet flywheel though with the other high performance parts. The stock flywheels can fly apart and ruin your day.

[@darrellpearce9241]

This engine was built for kart racing to replace the briggs LO206 class. This engine is amazing as it is and doesn’t need modification. If you want to build an engine this isn’t for you. But this is a great engine that is incredibly strong.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Darrell! For a box stock Kart class the Ghost is probably a good choice. Did you replace your flywheel on the Ghost?

[@srcobra50]

Im with you on that flywheel, very disappointed with that, but I’m still highly interested in this engine. Once I get my hands on one I’d do a pvl flywheel and leave it as is and see how long it lasts. Thanks for doing a tear down on this. You’ve been the main one updated every time you get new info on it.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hope it helped Saul. I do what I do for you guys. Don't need sponsors, don't need their money and they couldn't afford me anyway! Thanks!

[@srcobra50]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes lol awesome to fix. Forgot to say thanks for the cam specs I’ve been dying to know. Keep up your good work. Il be looking forward that 49.99 79cc engine video i heard you mention. Keep up the good work. Subscribed

[@JBBRAD9267]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes not saying any names but alot of the mini bike channels on KZbin once they get sponsored their videos immediately start to suck. Heavily edited and they don't tell the truth about their opinions. I like videos like yours that are like a damn class. You ain't worried about flashy thumbnails and catch phrases

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@JBBRAD9267 Thanks JB! I try to keep it real and I appreciate you.

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

i have the ducar 212 will the flywheel fit the ghost plug n play or do i need power tools ect

[@kylesyx8432]

Great review , thanks for the info. I’ve spent hours messing with 212 Pred and a 98cc clone which doesn’t offer much w aftermarket The 212 is a great engine. I’ve learned you get what you pay for though. After breaking the dipper and burning/scoring rod Twice I gotta quit being so cheap and fillet w billet. These replacement engines are made to run at best 4-4500 rpm I was running around 7 k !valves floating Should’ve started w 26lb springs Flat p, billet rod ! Now you got me thinking about the block I think imma get the tillotson/Ducar ✌️💕

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Thanks MrCantgetno! We think alike, billet is best!

[@DarkCornerGarage]

Great info, man. The last engine I built was a EC Carbs 236 stroker kit in a Tilly 225 block. Don’t think I can go any other route now. So much tq.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Thank you Sir! That EC 236 is hard to top! This year's winner of the 14.5 cubic inch engine dyno build off!

[@spankthemonkey3437]

Even more torque than a 10hp flat head Tecumseh engine 🤔

[@siggyretburns7523]

Arc weld a bead on the cam lobes and file it down to a millimeter longer lift. Might have to grind the hemi a bit deeper for valve clearance. Polish the ports. If it's sluggish after that, grind some weight off the flywheel. That thing can sing!!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Siggy! I've welded my own cams before too! We'll be doing a Billet build on the Ghost 212 engine as soon as I finish the 212 Ducar hemi build. Thanks!

[@siggyretburns7523]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes I ll be watching for it. GL 👍

[@mitchweber7868]

I was shocked when I just noticed the harbor freight came out with these new red looking whatever engines and I smelled hype from the first time I saw them while I was doing my usual browsing of coupons for harbor freight

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Mitch! The hype was pretty thick on this engine, more than it deserves. I guess they aimed to target Kart racers who have to spend several hundred on a box stock class engine. For them it may be a little cheaper to buy a Ghost engine and go racing. For everybody else, it's just a Predator Hemi 212 with a few inexpensive aftermarket parts. I was happy with the 252 camshaft, at about $50 a good upgrade over stock but still nowhere near the $300 price range of the base engine.

[@xClyptox]

I see this a lot - Prebuilt PCs is a solid thing to point at, good deal but when you look inside of it you realized its not as good as they claimed and is usually overpriced for what you actually got. Sucks that companies arent willing to actually put out good quality and shave their profit margins.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Very true! That's a great analogy. At least with the prebuilt PC you get an accurate description of the parts inside, the Ghost includes exotic marketing descriptions for basic stock components, like the connecting rod and engine block. Ah, marketing. I appreciate the visit and the comment my friend.

[@xClyptox]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes Yep yep, tbh I was looking to buy it for a mini bike to haul my fat butt around but if its mostly stock Im probably going to look at a more basic engine.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@xClyptox That Ducar 212 with the PVL flywheel is hard to beat, around $100 less than the Ghost 212. The Predator 224 is a good buy as well but includes the cast iron flywheel so no safe high RPM fun.

[@BBSE29]

Great engine disassembley video and also for a honest reveiw on it the video helped me decide if I'm going to buy one of the preditor engines but after seeing you tear it down and explain things I'm not sure if I will spend $300 on it. Thanks for the video and see you on the next one.👍

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Thanks Taylor!

[@madness_-yg3lw]

I definitely dont feel its worth 300 dollars for a 212cc engine as you can build a 8500 rpm engine that makes more hp and isnt a hemi as the hemi heads are too limited on performance without high dollar investments that arent worth the gain a non hemi will put out just as much power if not more being a smaller cc head and if you put a flat top piston in the non hemi you will gain even more compression and a better con rod that can handle anything you throw at it with out having to worry about piston to valve clearance my reg 212 non hemi has no problem spinning 8000rpms at 292 lift on the intake and 300 on the exhaust at 245° of duration and with a vm22 on 93 octane iv done quite a bit to get it to be able to spin 8000rpms but im still into it for about 550 or less

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@madness_-yg3lw Definitely not worth $300, unless you're a kart racer and they make a new box stock class for the Predator Ghost 212.

[@trevinskiking2165]

@@madness_-yg3lw + the fun...

[@madness_-yg3lw]

@@trevinskiking2165 definitely not wrong man

[@Bulletman426]

Thank you for the informative video. Nice to see what this engine is all about. Now a question, why are you saying the flywheel is an issue? If the engine is rated at 6000 RPM’s, and you’re saying it’s only good for 3600, why would they make the engine? Wouldn’t that be a lawsuit if the flywheel exploded. I’m just trying to understand why? Like I said if the engine is rated for 6k wouldn’t they rate the flywheel for that? IMO, they wouldn’t be able to sell the engine if there’s a safety issue with the flywheel I’m guessing

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi John! That's a great question. The coil limits the engine RPM to 6,200 but the stock cast iron flywheels are not rated for that many RPM. I'm sure the pre-purchase release you agree to will likely cover HF from any liability, after all racing is a dangerous sport. I'm also fairly certain that most local tracks will not allow any stock flywheels as they already know the dangers of cast iron and high RPM engines. It's an issue that should have been solved and could have been solved within the $300 price range of the Ghost 212 engine. That's also why I've chosen to put my Ghost build videos on hold as I cannot in good conscience promote the Ghost 212 engines as being a good value. Edited for spelling mistake*

[@chadmills5400]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes As a PROUD OWNER of this mighty GHOST engine I can say for a fact that you are wrong! The stock Ghost engine flywheel is perfectly balanced and will hold up the designed 6,200RPM coil. Even if it did fail, you have a steel shroud to protect your peas. In fact, if you like wheelies, I would stay with the stock heavier flywheel. As soon as I switched to a Billet flywheel, I lost the low-end momentum but got higher RPMs while set to the same timing. Note: if you want to change the timing without getting a new flywheel, just grind off the pin on the stock flywheel crank.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@chadmills5400 Hi Chad! I used to think cast iron flywheels were fine too. Right up until the moment one came apart in a 5HP Briggs engine. It ripped away the sheet metal side cover and removed the top portion of the cylinder block (the part with the cooling fins and the bore) The shrapnel went forward and luckily I had it side mounted on a racing kart frame. If it had been behind me or under me like on a mini bike, I likely wouldn't have fared very well. If you're counting on the side cover (blower housing or pull start cover) to save you from cast iron flywheel fragments, I would suggest to re-evaluate your position because I know from experience it won't. Now I'm not about telling anybody what kind of flywheel they have to run, it's a free Country and everyone can do as they please. I merely "suggest" a cast iron flywheel is not safe at any RPM over 3,600. Not stepping on anyone's toes in other words. But don't say you weren't warned of what "could" happen when or if it does. Thanks!

[@janicefullerton6201]

Thanks for the awesome 👏 information on this engine! So in your opinion straight out of the box is the 224 predator a better choice of engine to run on my mini bike or did I make a decision a little too soon? I love the engine it looks great but I’m pretty sure you were going to pay at least another $200 to get it to perform very well! But I still say at least it comes with a nice M22 carburetor I just wish it would come with a better flywheel at that price point! What’s your opinion? I know I will hear back from you soon and that is something I will always respect about you! You never leave your KZbinrs hanging keep the great content coming you’re still the greatest thanks again!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Janice, the 224 was a great buy, this Ghost 212 not so much. The cast iron flywheel on the Ghost 212 is a disappointment. For $300 they should have installed a PVL flywheel. I think the smart choice would be to buy the Predator 224 and put a billet flywheel on it. Thanks!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@Jesse's Kart & mini bike I know right, same old same old for years then boom two new engines is a brief time! Thanks!

[@gmcinnis6304]

ME... not really worth it. can get stock 212 for $150, put BILLET rod $65 in it. add .009" head gasket for .030" piston to head clearance with .020" in the hole piston on most of them. CM .265 cam off e bay for $65 best bang for BUCK... MOD 2 if for RULES type kart racing, yes has more duration... BUT NO MORE LIFT?? pointless and it costs more????? PVL flywheel off e bay or the other one that is cast alum flywheel for the NON hemi engine that one is $56 OTD price last i looked. 22# springs (6500 RPM's), 26# springs for ~8000 RPM's ... most engines are out of breath at 6900 with the stock valves/openings) from ARCracing. new side cover gasket to set crankshaft end play of .003-.012" (click click... not CLUNK CLUNK). 24mm intake hole MINUS 5mm valve stem x .85 (85% max flow capability) =~ 17mm/.690". stock carbs can be opened up to that size, if off center to avoid getting into the idle jet pocket and needle/seat pocket. those carbs cost $65 on e bay. the .650" carb $50~ is said to be better for daily driving. the .670? 690" for WIDE OPEN RUNNING, not so good for daily driver as fuel falls out of the fuel air mix because not enough velocity thru the port to keep fuel from puddling on port walls/floor and making it soft in lower RPM ranges??? in transition from idle jet to main jet. read somewhere to run the motor without an main jet to get the idle jet right size then mess with the main jet. want a light tan plug, not black TOO MUCH GAS wasted out the tailpipe... not white like new in box (NIB) as it is too lean and will make motor run HOT as gas cools the fire of combustion. runs well when running lean... but piston, cyl, rings all swell up, scores the cyl/piston/rings... ruins engine. look up how to read spark plugs online... want light tan plug. need new plugs 4 for $12 on e bay, cheap plugs since wont be in the motor that long. start engine (GOT OIL? GOT GAS?) immediately bring motor to WIDE OPEN THROTTLE (WOT) let it run for 10... or so seconds and while still at WOT, clip the kill switch. let cool, pull plug, read plug, adjust get size. oil on the plug threads so the iron plug threads dont sieze in the alum head and ruin the alum threads in the head. i use grease or anti seize... or oil... something on threads to keep them from seizing WEN/ebay grinder to port the head some ~$20, extra 80 grit sanding drums and at least 5 mandrels for the sanding drums as mandrels get destroyed from time to time. safety GOGGLES and dust mask outside in breeze to carry silica and alum shavings away from dremel operator/ppl/kids/animals... shop vac duct taped to port to suck bad things away from lungs... even vacuum cleaner disconnected from the suction head will work. E bay 22mm carb with AIR FILTER as if buy air filter alone it is $10... with carb it is $5... as it must cost $5 to ship just the little air cleaner. oil air cleaner to catch silt as the "air cleaner" is just a screen and will allow silt into the motor. wring out excess motor oil in air filter, clean air filter regularly... or get new. change oil in the first 3-15 min heat cool cycles to season the block on test stand... change oil again in 2 more hours on test stand. karters change their oil every race night. oil is cheap.. motor is not too cheap. ppl run the motor to season it and then open it up for gov n oil sensor removal... and to wipe out the casting sand in the bottom of the block (RAGS/paper towels) from the casting process. q tip in the oil drain hole valleys to get the casting sand out of there and other nooks and crannies . karters are running, i read on 4cycle.com ... PREDATORS, to 6900 R's with stock rod as the motors are "CLAIMER" motors... can be claimed by loser for $150 so no point in putting lots of $$$$ into motor to have someone claim the motor in a few races??? karters cut 3/8" off the oil dipper so it wont hit the bottom of motor from crank flex when screaming the engine. drill out the oil hole on big end of rod for MORE OIL to rod journal as that is what causes the rod to fail... the rod is spin welding itself to the crank journal from lack of oil/heat. friction welding...that is how they put tool joints on drill pipe. the tool joint, the mating end of the pipe, is machined out of a hunk of iron. the pipe is made in plug mill. the pipe is held steady, the tool joint is "made up" in a fixture and spun fast... shoved onto the end of the drill pipe where friction of the 2 welds them together. machine off the mushroom from the process, x ray it. out the door it goes.

[@GeorgeWashingtonknows]

I helped my son slap one of these engines on a Coleman 200u. We removed the top plate and mounted a predator 224 gas tank on it. Just had to cut the top of the oil dipstick. We used an Amazon straight pipe and a uni air filter, we didn’t use the ghost kit and the bike does 60mph.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Smart idea to buy the accessories yourself! I don't see any value in the Ghost accessory kit. Much cheaper to buy the parts you need elsewhere.

[@GeorgeWashingtonknows]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes I agree.

[@gravelyman]

Thanks for the review on the tear down. I would never spend 300 on that engine. Good video!!!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

$300 is way too much for what you actually get. Thanks for watching!

[@s2_eleven551]

I was thinking of putting this engine on a mini bike build i have been putting off for a while now. I was always planning on using the Local206, but couldnt see myself dropping $600+ on an engine. The ghost looks like a solid trade off.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

The Briggs OHV engines are a bit more expensive until you add on the cost of the Ghost accessory kit. The quality of the Briggs is much better though. For a mini bike, if I was going to use the Chinese engines, I'd likely go with something cheaper than the Ghost and add on a few race parts myself. If I was going Kart racing though and they had a specific class for the Ghost 212 engines, $300 isn't that bad to get started in a new class. It's still overpriced for what you're actually getting IMO. From what I've been told the goal is to have a Kart Race class that allows only the Ghost 212 engines specifically. This would be the only way Kart Racers would benefit from buying/having a Ghost 212 engine.

[@s2_eleven551]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes yeah i brought back an old mini bike from the dead that i got when i was maybe 10 (Im 40 now) with a predator 212 from HF. The header i bought cost more than the entire engine. But it rips pretty good. I wasn’t looking to build an engine or throw parts at my new project. I just wanted a solid out of the box type engine to bolt up and just leave alone.

[@samsgarage1716]

Great information.looks like it’s really just the cam that changes.

[@lexpro2239]

Helpful video. Thanks for walking us through this lil engine

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Greybuiltracing]

Wish they would have atleast supplied a better flywheel for the price point ! I don’t like that neither. Safety is a huge priority in my book . Yes they can hold up but does not sit comfortably in my mind. Ty for being honest in your videos and speaking your mind 🙏🏻.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I appreciate you Grey Built! This 212 Ghost review did ruffle some feathers, but it's accurate and true, and that's what I do.

[@chadmills5400]

I seriously thought there was an airplane flying above me for a second.

[@robertalexander4989]

They are decent motors but don't know if they are as relyable as a Kohler I just built a thirty horse 195 cc Kohler it was a five horse but I shaved ported and increased the size of the valves and made a hand made intake and jetted the carb and put a flat top Pistons in it now machining a oversized Cam for it hope to get sixty horses out of it before I am done even if it doesn't stay together really long

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

60HP would be a lot to ask from 195cc.

[@jacoballred]

Many years ago as a kid. That I had wanted a Go Cart. Never got anything for Christmas. Well, but now owning a sportscar. Being a Landscaper it's Ironic. That people give me small side horse engines. Just I've got plenty of them.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Jacob, it's never too late to start having fun!

[@jacoballred]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes Backthen as a kid nobody give me mechanical advice. About how to make a riding lawnmower fast? But only just to increase the size of the pulley on it's transmission. I've got lots of old lawnmowers.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Jacob! One of my favorite hobbies is garden tractor pulling! Changing those pulley ratios really can make a big difference in speed. A larger pulley on the engine with a smaller pulley on the transmission, turns the transmission faster.

[@KainKustomGarage]

Very interesting Sir! I'm gonna have to build me one some day!😊

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Thank you Sir!

[@williamdillingham5781]

The casting quality on the ducar crank I think is just a little bit better than the predator casting crank

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I agree. Some guys are claiming it's the same crankshaft casting, but it's obviously not.

[@999benhonda]

He said he's has flywheels come apart with the governor in place...I don't see how. I've set the governor to 4k rpms on many 212 motors without a problem. The engines are meant to run at 3600 all day, an extra 500-800 revs for a minute won't cause them to blow. Play around with 5k or higher and that's when they can come apart. But the rpm limiting coil makes sense in a spec racing class and I can't imagine that flywheel coming apart at 3600.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Yes Sir I've had a flywheel on a 196cc governed mini bike come apart. The Ghost 212 is rev limited to 5800 RPM which is way above 3600 RPM. I guess that's why the Kart Race tracks require a billet flywheel to run. I also used to think there was no problem with cast iron flywheels right up until one came apart on a 5HP Briggs engine sitting beside me. Thanks

[@Naferner_Said]

i was gonna get one of these, but nothing beats a built predator.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I agree! It's probably a more economical choice to build one yourself for sure! Thanks!

[@garybonz]

@ 13:06 the "key" goes into the "key-way". The key-way is the groove itself.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Thanks Gary. Sometimes I get tongue tied during the audio portions. I was referring to the keyway being cut a little tight.

[@ThePeacePlant]

Hello! Love the video, I was wondering if you had any good recommendations on racing ready engines that I can just bolt on my frame and not have to do very little to no work and will last for a long time before something is replaced because I have no clue on how engines work, s putting one together and taking one apart would kill me. Is there any good Japanese engines for karting?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

For durability you can't beat the Briggs Animal engines. They're kinda pricey but they sure are smooth runners. These Honda copy engines vibrate themselves apart. The Animal has a much better balance out of the box.

[@jaredgarcia448]

Tillotson 225rs a proper racing engine. My track are starting to get them as they have proven themselves to have better performance than the lo206.

[@charleshadden8270]

Tilly would be my first choice. 2nd would be the wildcat if I wasn't planning on going inside and building one.

[@jonard7037]

did anyone else notice the subtle swap of piston and crank? I hope he saw noticed it while putting them back together.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi J! Sometimes I will have multiple engines and parts on the bench. Rest assured I know which parts belong where. Though to avoid confusion I agree with you that the best policy would be to only work with one engine at a time on the bench for sure, but sometimes the projects stack up.

[@jonard7037]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes totally get it. Been there myself. Just wanted to say tho, You're video was very informative. It gave me better information to make a decision on buying the Ghost engine or not.

[@WhatIsTheWheel]

Unless it becomes a spec class motor, I don't think it is worth it for someone wanting a hotter motor. A big potential power adder for these little motors is rpm, and I don't think you want to spin that stock rod and flywheel much past 4k. On the other hand, if you want a "stage one" engine that does not get spun to quick, it is reasonable

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I agree. It may be worth it for a new kart class but not very economical for anyone else.

[@jaxperez7860]

I worked at a go kart track for 4 years and watch a lot of people come and go because the cost was high. Most people never got involved be cause of that. Having a cheaper motor to get people out to experience what it's like it a better option. Not everyone can cover the cost of the higher end racing. Which becomes a lot due to Engine cost. Edit : the Briggs l206 uses a cast iron fly wheel , they did beef up the cover though

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@jaxperez7860 Kart racers will probably appreciate this engine more than anyone else. Everyone knows this one is designed to unseat the Briggs Animal from it's throne, the cost of the 212 Ghost plus the accessory kit is still approaching the Briggs Animal price though.

[@chadmills5400]

I did it for the convenience of more out of the box power than a stock 196cc.

[@heavystarch100]

Can't find the kit anywhere! But the old Predator upgrade kit works. But the fact they outfitted it with a 15 dollar carburetor is telling.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

The kits were up on the HF site for a couple of days. I ♥ Go Karts was able to order the kit and have it shipped. Hopefully he'll have a video in the next few days.

[@MichaelSmith-gf5zc]

Only reason I have the ghost is it came on a minibike I just got. Its now on a go-cart and I only really plan to change out the flywheel.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I'm working on a video about aftermarket flywheel budget options. Should be up in the next few days.

[@562jamesj]

Ghost had sooo much potential but is a huge letdown in multiple areas. 224 Predator is way better platform

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

James I agree. I really like the 224 engine. Great parts and value in that one.

[@chriseller757]

Whats the difference other then alittle more stroke the platform is identical

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@chriseller757 Hi Chris! This one is aimed at Go Kart racers to replace the Briggs engines in particular, which is fine for anyone on board, but not that great of a value for anyone else.

[@SpicyBloodBean]

thanks for the info

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Welcome Kameron!

[@huongtoituonglai24]

Good job amazing video and nice place dear friend again 💖

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Thanks for watching!

[@chadmills5400]

I noticed the bracing on the ducar block but I wonder if that means that the ducar block is also thinner than the ghost necessitating a need for the heavy bracing. Have you ever measured the two.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Great question Chad! The Ghost 212 block is the same block as the Predator 212 Hemi engine. They're known for breaking along the top (backbone area under the tank) The Ducar 212 or 224 Predator Ducar blocks are noticeably thicker and have a reinforced back and cylinder. The back is webbed, thicker and the shroud along the top side of the cylinder adds strength to the jug area.

[@williamdillingham5781]

Ducar itself is just a better casting all around vs. The predator casting

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@williamdillingham5781 I agree William. The Ducar block and crank are much better quality on the engines I've worked with. Some have claimed (falsely) that the Ghost 212 uses the Ducar block but that's not true and the crankshaft is also different. The ghost 212 does have a Ducar hemi head but other than that, no frills.

[@chadmills5400]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes But with the added integrity of the tins... does that make it as strong, or better?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@chadmills5400 Chad the top plate adds some stability to the block casting along the backbone area but it's no substitute for a good thick casting. There's not much added support in the thin sheet metal top plate. A good thick aluminum top plate would add more strength.

[@igokarts4510]

As always ❤️❤️ ❤️❤️

[@ChristopherJones16]

Is the cam worth $150? Id like to see a comparison of the parts/specs between the Ghost and the standard Predator 212 Hemi.. reason is I want to know if we can use the Ghost Racing Engine Accessory Kit.. im guessing we cant use it.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Chris! The parts kit should fit the predator 212 hemi with no problems at all. The camshaft in the Ghost 212 appears to be either a Rattlesnake 252 camshaft or a close copy. They're around $50 for the cam.

[@Fandueler]

The flywheel is for a 212 non hemi from what I found. I tried a hemi billet flywheel on the ghost and it didn fit. So does the ducar use the same non hemi flywheel.

[@mikeenos4040]

I am new to the carting world I like this engine could I just replace the fly wheel with a bilit one with out doing anything else ,just keep it stock as it comes out of the box ?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Mike! Sure you could! The flywheel is the only safety issue I have with these engines. But, if it were me, I would only buy one for a box stock specific class that required the Predator Ghost 212 engine though. There are much better engines available for quite a bit less $ if you just want to go racing.

[@mikeenos4040]

Thank you for answering my question.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@mikeenos4040 Anytime Mike! Glad to have you here!

[@ThePeacePlant]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes Can you please recommend any better engines for Karting? Also do you know any good websites that cater to Karting?

[@HaveUSeenMyBaseball86]

So what's so special about them? Do they go any faster ?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

A little better camshaft and a better carb than a stock 212 Predator. The rev limiting coil is kinda cool too but even with those features, it's not worth the extra $ IMO.

[@Mack-tz2hd]

Ots got a pretty box. A $22 carb n $15 carb to head adaptor n .254" lift cam. The .265" cam is $55 online

[@lionelpatterson1436]

Chief Tecumseh Made some good engines I' modified one That would run wide open And Throw blue flames at the exhaust yes

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Lionel those Tecumseh engines would turn crazy RPM. I had a HH100 on a pulling tractor that sounded like a chainsaw!

[@mindseyeproductions8798]

Damn! when I was a kid we had to steal the neighbors lawnmower to get an engine....

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

LOL!

[@siggyretburns7523]

Same here. Back when Asians did landscaping, the guy down the street had a backyard full of horizontal shaft B&S 3.5 and 5 hp. He probably would have given a few to me. But I couldn't take that chance. Lol

[@fatbuddycat]

I like the rockers.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Me too! Much better than chasing those little E-clips around! Thanks!

[@fatbuddycat]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes my man. I like your style! Great job keeping everything simple and moving along.

[@sterlingstoots3215]

Seems like a tillotson 212e Would be a much better option I have a tillotson on my Coleman ct200u and it is a powerhouse.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Tillotsons are great running engines! Toss up between the Ducar Hemi and the Tillotson but I'd take either one in place of a Ghost 212!

[@williamsantiago7303]

Do you think maybe that factory flywheel has been balanced at the factory, so that's why they have it installed with a 6500 limiter? If it's balanced, it should hold, shouldn't?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi William! I'm sure they have some sort of balance from the factory. The problem is the cast iron construction and the magnet installation of the flywheel. It's really dangerous as it can explode at any RPM above the stock rated 3,600RPM. That's why most if not all kart race tracks do not allow cast iron flywheels on their track. There are low cost replacement options on the market for around $35. I've used those aluminum flywheels that are made the same way chainsaw flywheels are made and they seem to hold up just fine. Of course billet is best, and that's why the billet flywheels are almost $100 higher in cost than the aluminum cheapies. Depending on your application, the aluminum cheapie may work for you. At any rate it'll be much safer than the stock cast iron flywheels.

[@williamsantiago7303]

@KentuckyFriedFixes Hey buddy, thank you for the reply and the great info. I'll do my research on both of those flywheels that you mentioned and go from there.👍

[@japrogramer]

Did you switch the pistons? When you picked them up you switched them

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Good eye japrogramer! I did set the Ghost piston and rod with the other parts to the left side of the engine but it was off camera. I won't be using either one in these engine builds but I will save them for use in upcoming builds. I never throw out new parts as they always have a place somewhere in something. I'm really anxious to try those DLC coated rings too! You guys are sharp!

[@brianjrriggen5602]

i got a questions would a predator hemi fly wheel work on the ghost? and if i wanted to change the valve cover what would i be looking for? also i need to replace the blower cover on my ghost would a standard predator blower cover work?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Brian! You'll need a Honda taper flywheel for the Ghost 212. If you plan on using the rev limiting coil you'd be better off with a billet aftermarket flywheel or the High RPM aluminum cheapies that have more timing built in. If you want to make a std 212 hemi into a Ghost engine, you'll need a Ducar Hemi head and valve cover. The standard Predator Hemi head and valve cover are a different design. (you'll also need a Rattlesnake 252 camshaft and 26LB valve springs) The magnet is relocated on the Ghost cast flywheel to work with the rev limiting coil but I wouldn't use one of those flywheels (safety issues). The standard 212 blower housing will fit. They only widened the blower housings on the 224 to make room for the larger fan, the 212 Ghost blower housing is still the same width as stock and uses the same fan. Parts list: Ducar Hemi head and valve cover, Rattlesnake 252 cam and 26lb springs, billet flywheel or aluminum cheapie rated for high RPM. I'd also add a billet rod and lose the rev limiter coil.

[@Buses2Bikes]

Do you think it's possible to make a Hybrid Ghost 224? Take the 224 Block and put the Hemi Ghost Parts on it and internals and see if it works? And of so...maybe some testing of it?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

The 224 block would be a super upgrade for the Ghost 212 engine. Everything should swap over pretty easily. I guess you noticed I've not been doing any more videos on the Ghost 212. I did disassemble the first one to see what race parts it included inside and after viewing the internals, I decided I couldn't in good conscious promote the Ghost 212 engine as being worth the price. It's just not IMO. I have done a Ghost 212 build with the aftermarket Tillotson 72mm bore block and a few other performance items but sadly, the only part I used from the original ghost 212 engine was the crankshaft. So that video will never be posted. It just doesn't make sense to buy a $300 engine and use only the $50 crankshaft from it. 🤣 Thanks!

[@Buses2Bikes]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes The Ghost 212 does appear to be the most hated engine in the minibike/cart world. Hopefully that drives down the price at Harbor Freight and I can pick a bunch up at a super discount in the future

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@Buses2Bikes I think the Ghost 212 engine has it's place in Kart classes, and for that it's fine. They are a bit overpriced though for what you get. If the price was equal to what you receive I'd buy a few more too! Until then it's cheaper to build one for yourself. A 224 with a 252 Rattlesnake camshaft and Hemi head, add a few other billet items to make a great engine, the "Ghost 224".

[@chadmills5400]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes I agree. For the price the engine is lacking. Yet it is the only out of the box ready "performance" engines that I can think of where I can go pick one up at a local store same day. I would love to be able to drive to my local Tillotson shop one day and drive away with a built performance engine for a competitive price to the "Ghost". My next engine won't be another Predator unless I can't wait. Or don't want to wait. BTW great work!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@chadmills5400 I like the way you Think Chad! I prefer the Ducar engines myself if it's an import. Wish Briggs would get back into the flathead business!

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

my ducar shit the bed this morning im looking for a backup between this ghost or the stage one tilly from gopowersports either the 212 or 196r which one would u buy i dont have time to crack this motor open no tools ect

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I like the Ducar 212 better than the Ghost. That 223 Anbull is a great choice too, 58mm stroker crank, reinforced block AND flat top piston from the factory!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Maybe do an autopsy video? Find out what happened? It may have dropped a valve?

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes exactlay mundo i hear it shaking in there def gonna put it on the operating table and see whats goin on there but ineed a backup engine in case i mess it up so im asking since i already have the ducar what engine would u think would be a good for cruising until i get the tools for this open heart surgery lol

[@mooty765]

Good info I've been thinking about purchasing the ghost I have the 212 8 horse predator on my bigger dingo good strong motor gotta clean my spark plug and adjust my rockers from time to time (backfire) because I run it rich wide open lol but it is a reliable motor and has some good pull I was thinking about putting the ghost on my little dingo but after watching this video I'm just gonna get another 8 horse 212 and modify it myself 👍my goal is to create a powerful drift cart with the little one ...

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Good deal Mooty765! I think it's much smarter (and cheaper) to just build your own Predator 212!

[@JBBRAD9267]

I've come to the conclusion that this ghost 212 is just a gimmick

[@smartassist9700]

What “IS” a good brand same size motor ? With starter. Horizontal shaft.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

The Briggs OHV is a comparable size and you can get those with electric start or install a starter kit.

[@pd101]

So I’m new to go karting. Are parts for this thing the same as he old 212? Or am I order by size?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

The crankshaft, camshaft, carb and head are different from the standard 212 Predator engines. Most parts ordered will need to be for a Honda clone. 1.180 crankshaft diameter with Honda clone taper and .549 camshaft diameter.

[@billwill7383]

Does anybody make a aluminum flywheel that supports a charging system? If not I'm sure there's a market for it.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Bill! That's a great question! I've looked everywhere I can think of online and I've not found anyone that makes a billet flywheel with the magnets installed to work with a charging coil. You can find billet flywheels with the electric starter gear but nothing that will charge a coil. Seems like somebody should make one. Perhaps they don't think the market would be enough to be worth the effort? I know there's a number of mini bike owners that'd love to have them. I'd buy a few for sure.

[@billwill7383]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes seems like something that someone would've made ages ago.

[@Deucealive75]

You could duplicate it's power with a China Mikuni and a 252 Rattlesnake cam in a standard Pred hemi. And still have money for a cheap aluminum flywheel to get to $300. I'm using that cam in my 224. It's supposed to pull nicely off idle to 6K RPM which is usable RPM for my gearing.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Lots of combinations that would run better for less $. The cam is interesting, I may have a closer look at that thing.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Good call on the 252 Rattlesnake camshaft! I put the Ghost 212 cam under the degree wheel and done some comparisons on the specs of the 212 Ghost cam. It matches up pretty well with the 252 Rattlesnake camshaft. I may have been off a little on mine as I think the wheel slipped on me but it's really close to the 252 Rattlesnake profile. So it's either a 252 Rattlesnake camshaft or they "borrowed" the specs and ground their own version.

[@Stingyduce]

Hi there I enjoy your videos, but I’m having some a problem on my new build my bike pops when I go to pull start it , it’s dose start and it dose idle fine once I go past 1/4 trotle it Boggs down and will not go faster I checked my main jet fule delivery is all good and idea where I should start troubleshooting? Tia sir

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Stingy! A few things to look at: 1st Check the valve lash to make sure it's not too tight. Check your timing key to make sure it hasn't sheared or moved. Once those things are checked out and verified to be good, now to the carburetor. If the carb was jetted and running fine before the engine started doing this, it's likely a vacuum leak or some trash in the fuel system. There are a lot of little things to check but you'll get it. What type of camshaft and carb do you have in there? Sometimes the Thunderstix camshafts can drag on the crank throw and cause an issue too. My best guess is if you're getting a "pop" when you pull start it's likely a valve adjustment is off a little bit. It's unlikely to have a valve seating problem or anything major. Just take your time, check out all the small things one by one and you'll get it.

[@Stingyduce]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes I have in a mod 2 cam with a Asian vm22 carb with 30 main jet, I will start with lash setting go from there thanks again

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

If you run a billet rod make sure you have enough rod/cam clearance. Could that be a 130 main jet? 30 would be too small for the main jet. Pilot jet should be around a size 20 or so but a 30 pilot jet would probably work.

[@Stingyduce]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes yes 130 main jet rod and cam clearance is good I checked that few times

[@Stingyduce]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes hi there sir, I got it running much better I adjusted my lash some was slightly looser them cam card recommended, now my problem is it’s kind of hard to start once I get it on it’s good I’m hitting top speed no problem I went back looked at slow speed jet it’s 38 so I’m thinking that why it’s lil hard to start so I order a slow jet kit.

[@JBBRAD9267]

I want one so bad. I need something to put it on too. I want one on a gokart. Too many projects at once for me tho

[@JBBRAD9267]

After watching most of the video I no longer want this at all.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@JBBRAD9267 For the Kart Racer, these will probably be ok for a box engine class for the Ghost 212 engines. For everyone else, it's overpriced for what you actually get and not that great of a value. The Ducar 212 Hemi with the PVL flywheel for $219 is a much better choice, if you build your own.

[@robertlopez3249]

Will a 212 predator fly wheel with the magnets fit the ghost for the head light

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Robert! The Ghost uses the Honda clone taper. The regular Predator 212 flywheel is not supposed to fit the taper correctly. Aside from locating the Honda clone taper flywheel with the internal charging magnets, you'll also need to install the charging coil(s) on the block under the flywheel. If you're not sure if your flywheel will work or not, you can always lap it in with some valve grinding compound to check the fit. If the taper is wrong, it won't lap in correctly and it's easy to see.

[@johnb7977]

great videos

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Thanks John! I appreciate you!

[@heathenprojects2639]

I got a question so I've been looking around and I know most pvl have 28* of timing built in because they are a little heavier but do you know if the ducar pvl has that by chance

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

The PVL on the Ducar is supposed to be 28 degrees total advance. Can't say for certain as I've not verified it, but it's probably pretty close to that. Give or take a degree one way or the other of course.

[@heathenprojects2639]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes I had a few minutes tonight to mess with my predator I got it tore down and got the pvl pulled off the ducar going to use it on my very mild build hemi

[@Deucealive75]

@@heathenprojects2639 Not sure if it will work or not but no Pred 212 crankshaft has a clone flywheel taper that the Ducar has. You need a Predator 212 hemi flywheel to fit correctly on it's crankshaft. I like that these newer engines are using a clone crankshaft. I would have never got a 224 if it had a Predator specific crankshaft.

[@heathenprojects2639]

@@Deucealive75 I'm planning messing with things this weekend my wife been driving around for about 2 months now with a 224 in the trunk of her car she has mentioned I should get it out so she can use it I figure I'll go a few more weeks press my luck 🙃

[@heathenprojects2639]

Been looking around I found a 4h robin clone on Amazon but 177 bucks is a little more then I want to spend right now lil indain getting a new motor just not sure what yet clinton is kinda of a museum piece I'm not painting the Indian I'm actually going to rat it out so may just use the predator I have sand blast tank and side cover so I can salt peroxide and vinegar mix to rust it out for rat road look I'd do it to a 5 horse but them covers are getting pricey on ebay

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

The Clinton would be nice on the Lil Indian. You're gonna have to see what I'm doing with the $49.95 LCT engines. It's coming soon, I've just been a little too busy lately so the LCT stuff was put on the back shelf temporarily. You'll see.

[@heathenprojects2639]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes can't wait

[@chadmills5400]

Are those 1:2 ratio rockers?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Chad! Mine are 1:1 ratio on the Ghost 212.

[@bobbaker8715]

So what exactly does the ghost have in it other then the hotter cam?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Bob! It does have a rev limiting coil set at 6800 RPM and there is a top plate installed on the block. The Ducar Hemi head is a slight improvement over the Predator Hemi head and mine has 26lb springs, but the Predator Hemi engines have the flat top piston VS the Ghost 212's dished piston.

[@memyselfandi3925]

A cast steel machined and balanced flywheel will take high rpms without an issue. Cast iron is another animal. Just like anything else if you go over redline it will cause damage.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

I remember reading about the Tillotson cast iron flywheels and sellers were advertising that they were "good to 10,000 RPM" of course that was a lie made up to market the same dangerous inferior cast iron flywheel like the Ghost 212 has. This mention of "cast steel" is another one of those dangerous marketing lies trying to get off the ground. It's cast iron. I'll likely make a video of me breaking one with a hammer soon so any reference to the Ghost having a "cast steel flywheel" is quickly debunked out of the gate. I think with those type of rumors and misinformation about products it's better to snuff them out quickly before someone gets hurt. Thanks!

[@skwyrz1]

rev limiter ignition is first thing swapped out.

[@williamcollins4082]

A simple steering wheel puller quickly removed the fly wheel . Oddly enough I have not had flywheel problems ???

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi William! Did you drill and tap your flywheel for the puller? I've heard of people doing that. I've used the steering wheel/harmonic balancer pullers on Briggs engines before but these Predator flywheels don't have the holes (from the factory anyway) Thanks!

[@williamcollins4082]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes most of me experience is with briggs as well with most others . It doesn't take that much pressure if not rusted . Were there not fan or pull cord screws ? Cam timing an carb manifold runner length afford power benifits but you better build/get a good rod !!!

[@chadmills5400]

You say there is no bracing on the Ghost block yet there is bracing, and you removed it. The tins.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Chad! The top plate does provide some added strength to the backbone of the block when installed. However, that removeable plate does not mean anything is special about the block. The advertisement reads: "Reinforced dual ball-bearing racing cylinder with cast iron sleeve" The "Racing cylinder with cast iron sleeve" part does not mean a sheet metal top plate. So at best it's a delicately worded marketing stretch to make the block sound better than it really is. It is worded to make one believe the block is a reinforced racing block, but it is clearly not. The block is the old standard 212 Hemi block. That's one of the reasons I discontinued the Ghost 212 build series. I'm not comfortable promoting something that is clearly a rip off and not worth the price. Now, that being said, if someone comes up with a karting class for the Ghost 212 box stock engine, that would be great! A $300 engine for kart racing would be a wonderful thing. The problem is none of the tracks are going to allow a cast iron flywheel on an ungoverned engine for safety reasons. As of today 11/23/23 I'm unaware of any such classes being run anywhere. If you know of any please let me know. Thanks!

[@GMN1968]

what size is the shaft key i might have to buy another one cause i was pulling on my throttle and i didnt have my clutch on 😔

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Malik! The standard key stock used for these is the 3/16" size. You'll probably need one at least 1/4" in length for your clutch if it doesn't already have one made into it (check). Most guys will buy the longer length sticks of key stock and cut them into a few pieces to have as spares. Never hurts to have extras.

[@GMN1968]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes thank u soo much

[@jamesfalvey77]

So, the hemi, non-hemi heads are interchangeable?!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi James! Most of the Honda clone type engines will interchange heads. It's important to remember to check things like push rod lengths and piston to valve clearance though. I did get in one engine that was different, it was the Atlas 210cc engine with the 74mm bore and short stroke crankshaft. The head bolts on that one are spaced farther apart than any of the other Honda clone engines I've seen. But that said, the Atlas engine is not really a Honda clone engine, none of the gaskets will interchange either, so it's more of a one-off Chinese version/design IMO. Thanks!

[@mikenordyke2538]

They don't call em ghost for nothing ... I live in Michigan and I can't find one anywhere. Where are you getting these engines???

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Mike here's a few places to look in Michigan: Cadillac, MI # 810 3900 US Highway 131 S Cadillac, MI 49601 231-779-4021 Houghton Lake, MI # 3327 3451 W Houghton Lake Dr. Ste C Houghton Lake, MI 48629 989-279-0800 Clinton Township, MI # 153 34900 Groesbeck Hwy Clinton Townshp, MI 48035 586-790-5340 These stores have them in stock at this time. You will have to ask for the engine up front as most will still be sitting in the back. The workers may not even know they have them so make sure to ask them to check the back because you know they do. Good luck!

[@oneoldjimmy1]

Rogers MN shows having one in stock

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@oneoldjimmy1 The Ghost should be available at many HF stores across the US now. The link on their site is working now. I tried putting one in the shopping cart and it let me this time. With the price of gas these days it'd probably be cheaper to order online. Thanks!

[@cjj4591]

I thought heavier flywheels store more enery and momentum right?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

It's true that a heavy flywheel stores more energy than a light flywheel. Due to the extra weight of the heavy flywheel it takes the engine longer to accelerate and decelerate so depending on how you intend to use the engine, you may benefit from a lighter flywheel or a heavy flywheel. Let's say you have a kart race engine and your track has tight turns, a lighter flywheel would be the way to go as it allows the engine to decelerate quicker going into the turn and accelerate faster coming out of the turn and that acceleration time is a big factor. On the extreme other side, let's say you have a performance engine for a garden tractor puller. You'd want to have an extra heavy flywheel so you could store as much energy as possible. Acceleration time is not a factor for a pulling tractor so after you get hooked up to the sled you can slowly rev your engine to max RPM and drop the clutch when you feel comfortable to start your pull. The important thing to remember is that whatever flywheel you use for your application, it needs to be billet or at least rated for the max RPM you intend to turn.

[@DaveCollierCamping]

Awesome

[@angnoop2]

What's the big deal with this engine I was told at Harbor Freight that it takes less fuel to run it and you have to sign a Gov. Waiver saying it's for Go Cart Use only. Anyone know what this is about?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Noop! I'm pretty sure the Ghost uses more fuel than a standard Predator 212 engine. It is true that you have to acknowledge the engine will be for off road use only though. More than likely it has something to do with it being advertised as a "Racing Engine" for legal reasons.

[@Picklejam08]

For some strange reason, I can't find a dyno or hp rating for this engine anywhere. It's been out for months.

[@charleshadden8270]

Around 12hp 13tq

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Graftonreed! I'm with Charles on this one, about 12 HP seems to be what they're getting out of the Ghost 212 engine, but different dynos will read differently too.

[@southern_merican]

I like ur channel name

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Welcome!

[@chuckhuff7123]

Hay, where's the governor, governor. 😅

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Chuck! That's funny!

[@Deans64]

i need fly wheel how much you can keep the nut

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Kevin! I keep all the old parts for spares. If you need to replace the flywheel anyway now would be a good time to upgrade to billet.

[@laudennn]

the best music gear says PROFESSIONAL CUSTOM TOURING STAGE ELITE, the best cooking tools say LUXURY TOP CHEFMAN and the fastest engines say RACING EDITION. just like average people, they will always tell you what they're not

[@shawnpendergraft1656]

You talk like my med gas teacher. Very informal

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Shawn! I try to keep it real. I'm just me. 🤣

[@bseckesconway]

Do you happen to know the size dimensions of the engine as it comes out of the box?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Conway. It's the exact same as a Predator 212 Hemi without the gas tank mounted. The block is identical so the height and mounting base are the same. The Ghost 212 uses the Ducar 212 Hemi head so the valve cover is just a bit taller than the stock hemi cast valve cover, other than that it should fit anything the stock Hemi will bolt onto.

[@bseckesconway]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes great thank you!

[@gmcinnis6304]

what i figured. 20 buck carb, 20 buck intake, $65 cm .265" lift e bay dyno cam . remove gov put 1/4" bolt in hole....$80 pvl flywheel.... port head with 20 buck wen e bay grinder n lots of 80 grit sanding drums $12 from cn~$300

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

It wouldn't take much to prepare a Predator 212 Hemi to the same specs for a lot less money. My main complaint is the low quality components used vs the $300 price tag. The 224 engines are a much better value and include race quality parts.

[@gmcinnis6304]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes yup ... i was just doing the math for myself n others that can build engines with ebay parts one piece at a time. some tools that most ppl have, the WEN (dremel) grinder to port the head some $20 and extra sanding drums $10. same cast iron flywheel as stock??????? when a person is might have problems with the flywheel... kevlar blanket around the flywheel... or 1/8" alum plate... 1/4" for SCCA clutches... steel or alum. the money for the GHOST vs parts to build up stock 212... with billet rod and pvl flywheel $65 and $80, repectively... is abt the same $$$$$. i like the metal longer intake... cut it and make it longer? if needed. ram air intake... after porting head . without porting head some... i wud drill the valve guides down to the port roof... yes wont last forever, but get that long valve guide out of the way... still held up by the 25mm intake port hole... MINUS 5mm valve stem x .85 (85% max flow possibility)... ~17mm/ .690"

[@rtz549]

Bought a hand deburring tool. Has made in Israel molded into the handle. But it shipped out of China?

[@theonetrueKM]

don't forget that life time guarantee there bud.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

It's funny how that seems to be the case more and more lately.

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

oven cleaner will turn aluminum that gun blue blck look or u get that blue bottle dont get it on your skkin cuz it will turn u into poppa sMurf lol

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Oven cleaner does turn aluminum black but it melts grease for sure. Melts skin too though. LOL!

[@SpAcEcruizer203]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes yea but it smells so good lol i use it as after shave sometimes when im feeling dangerous

[@contraband1543]

What do you do with all your engines?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Go Karts, Mini Bikes and the occasional garden tiller. Thanks!

[@contraband1543]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes Oh cool I was just curious if you only did reviews and then sold built engines or something. Have a good one!

[@richardbennett8678]

Can I install it on a bicycle?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Your only limit is your imagination. I think that's called the "212 Widow Maker" when you install on a bike. There are kits available, should run better than the 66/80cc bicycle engines.

[@shatnersufolanded7785]

What happens if the throttle gets stuck or governor malfunctions with a cast iron flywheel when your on it doesnt it go up above 3600 rpms. Sounds like you had your mind made up before you tore into it with all the snickering and picking at this poor little fella,bet some folks love it.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Melvin! The Ghost does not have an internal governor assembly, it has a rev limiting coil that tops out at 6,200 RPM. And that's quite a bit above 3600 RPM (and the limits of cast iron). I give an honest review of what you get for your money with the Ghost 212 engine. I also voiced my opinion about cast iron flywheels on this engine since it is advertised as a "Kart Racing Engine" Cast Iron flywheels are dangerous and not only can kill, but they HAVE killed as a matter of fact, not opinion. Karting tracks have made them illegal for that reason and require safer options to be installed prior to racing at their tracks. So, when I saw a cast iron flywheel installed on an engine advertised as a "Kart Racing Engine" I was a bit disgusted. My opinion is the price paid for this engine is too high for what you actually receive, essentially a stock standard block Predator 212 Hemi engine with a few inexpensive performance parts thrown in without any thought of safety. It's ok if you have a different opinion of the Ghost 212 engine, but that doesn't mean I'm wrong, or that I've misrepresented anything about the Ghost 212 engine. Honesty is sometimes not easy to hear, or agree with, but honesty is what you get from this channel.

[@arlieendsley4]

So a $150 motor with a $18 carb for $300.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Arlie, that's about it. It does have a 252 lift camshaft very close to the Rattlesnake 252 cam specs. Definitely not for the average guy. All and all for a Kart box stock class it may go over but at almost $100 over the cost of the Ducar 212 hemi kart engine that comes with a PVL flywheel installed, it's not a great value for kart racers either.

[@shawnmrfixitlee6478]

Just Sub to ya man ! Great share ..

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Thanks Shawn!

[@bretmontgomery7855]

Did you know a Honda has a cast flywheel rated for around 10k because they’re balenced to the crack that 1 look to be good for 6k to 6500 rpms

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Brett, I'm aware of the PVL aluminum flywheels that are rated at 8500 RPM and spin tested to 17K on some, but the truth is no cast iron flywheel is rated above 3600 RPM regardless of marketing claims. That "Good to 10K" line was used to market Tillotson engines that came equipped with cast iron flywheels. It's a lie, cast iron is not rated more than stock governed RPM. That's why many tracks have rules against using cast iron flywheels. Thanks!

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Brett, I just wanted to add that everyone is free to run whatever flywheel they want. It's none of my business or anyone else's what flywheel a guy chooses to run. It's a free Country. I ran cast iron flywheels on 5hp Briggs engines for years and never had an issue until one came apart on me. Up until the moment it exploded, I was of the opinion cast iron was fine for racing. Only after mine came apart did I switch to billet flywheels. It's up to the individual. Thanks Brett, I appreciate you and welcome discussion.

[@Deucealive75]

NR racing has what they call a Genuine Honda GX flywheel. Others are selling what appears to be a clone of this flywheel. A few weeks ago the clone flywheel mentioned was only $39. The price recently went up to $59. I have the GX flywheel from NR racing that I bought a few years ago for $49. That's going on my 224. It shouldn't see more than 5500 RPM.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@Deucealive75 Those $39.95 cast aluminum flywheels may be the answer. I've gotten a couple of those and one looked pretty good. For sure rated at 8500 RPM which is fine for most engines.

[@bretmontgomery7855]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes True I just have never had trouble with a Honda gx390 flywheel but I was never above 8500 rpm

[@Deans64]

hf and lifan no longer do business together on 212 motor

[@chuckhuff7123]

Looks like a glorified 212 engine that they stuck a mikuni type carburetor on, then jacked the price up to fool the consumer into thinking he's getting something ready to bolt on and race with😢.

[@dwightbernheimer331]

There are Much Better options out There... In fact, they're All over KZbin... 'Nuff said!!!...

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Agreed!

[@dwightbernheimer331]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes Thanks for taking the time to respond...

[@predator_boiz336]

Not strong at all, I broke a little bit of my block when I tapped it, broke a piece off 😭 hearing people talk about those flywheels scare me I’ve been running the stock flywheel on my 196 for a while and it has no govenor , header and a pz26 carb on it, I ride it 20 miles or so each way lol , hopefully it doesn’t explode between my legs 😂

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Troy! That Predator block turned out to be a Predator Hemi block. They're really a little thin for them to be calling it a racing block.

[@litnlarry]

What pvl flywheel will work hemi or non hemi?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi Larry. Mine looks to be a standard Honda clone taper like the 224 Predator crankshaft. I'll be using the SK-200 billet flywheel for the Honda clone.

[@litnlarry]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes can you provide a link to the flywheel and coil you are using please and thank you.

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@litnlarry www.eccarburetors.com/rev-wheel-billet-flywheel-clone for the flywheel I'm using. Or if you prefer ARC Flywheels: amzn.to/3905xV3 The coil to use is just a stock cheapie like this one: amzn.to/3NJCwLU You can always remove the resistor boot and add your own plug wire for just a few bucks if you want to make a high performance coil. I'd rather replace the coil wire and plug boot myself rather than pay someone else $40-$50 for what is otherwise the same $12 coil.

[@litnlarry]

@@KentuckyFriedFixes thanks man. Link to a billet rod please. Or any billet predator rod will work?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

@@litnlarry Larry, check out the 212 Ducar build videos. I have some parts listed in those that will work for the Ghost as well. You'll have to remember the Ghost is more like a clone engine rather than a Predator. It has the clone size crank journal and cam journals.

[@aeroflopper]

over here that would be a junior cart engine, for 6yr olds? this can't be considered a performance racing engine?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Great point and I agree! The stock dished piston combined with the large Hemi combustion chamber is not exactly a power maker. The coil limits RPM to 6200 max with a camshaft lift of only +.020 (or 0.5mm) over stock. Not a big performer for racing, more suited for a small carb restricted plate class for sure.

[@johncooper9976]

Is it equal to a Honda, Yamaha, kawasaki 200cc engine?

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

Hi John. The quality of the parts in the Predator engines is nowhere near that of the Japanese engines IMO. The current crankshaft in the Ghost 212 is a step in the right direction though. The counterweights do not appear to have as much material removed which aids in a better engine balance and would seem to have some "Japanese influence" IMO. I'm not certain if all the Ghost 212 cranks are this way though, I've only looked at this one and likely won't be buying a second Ghost 212 engine. Thanks John!

[@siggyretburns7523]

Maybe Honda. But Yamaha and Kawasaki probably don't make 4 stroke in a 200cc size. But I'm guessing.

[@boneyard-built-minibikes9844]

Why would they keep the gov gear on the crank if there is no gov in the motor ? Doesn’t make any sense

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

The big gear does throw a little oil. Other than that, it is extra rotating weight, some guys remove it for that reason. I leave mine on too when I remove the governor for throwing the little bit of oil reason.

[@siggyretburns7523]

I don't know why they didn't just run the gov off the cam and lose that gear. That thing looks like it's ready to eat the 1st thing that comes loose in the block.

[@chrisstern268]

I'd say thats worth 300, but it's basic as shit. For 3 or 400 I'd rather have a CR80 or 125 engine

[@wewillsurviveone]

But... What you expect for 300. That carb is about a hundred alone

[@KentuckyFriedFixes]

My PZ-22 cost $20