This Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Is A Dangerous Predator
Say you’re a person who likes to scour bike auction listings. You’re cool with wrenching, and you like finding bargains that you can fix up. Maybe you want to flip them, or maybe you just like to test your mettle against the worst abuse that people can inflict on their bikes. You know, just to see if you can bring them up to scratch. It’s good for your skills, and besides, you like a good mechanical puzzle.
Let’s also suppose that you find a mid-90s Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic at one such auction, and it’s seen better days. When it finally arrives, i t’s in better shape than you expected it to be from the report, because the auction company was clearly in pure CYA mode and rated everything as being in totally reprehensible condition. So really, anything less than a complete horror show would be a pleasant surprise. This bike isn’t awful. but it kinda needs an engine transplant. What should you swa p in?
In The Shadows Of Giants:
I’ll save you some time. The most glaringly obvious answer is clearly a 212cc, 6.5 horsepower Harbor Freight Predator lawn mower engine. It comes straight off the shelf at your favorite purveyor of cheap parts, tools, and that unique lightheadedness you can only get from the fumes as soon as you walk in the door. I mean, t hat’s 120 well spent, amirite ?
T hat’s exactly what the guys from SRK Cycles did with their 6500, 2 00 bargain auction find, and boy, did it deliver. You want loud pipes? As observed here. this bike is even louder and vibier than ever before. As observed twice by different people throughout this video, it leaks oil like a champ to mark its terr itory when parked. Not only that, but it can manage a top speed of around 53 miles per hour, so it’s totally ready for highway cruising !
I mean, I admit that it’s probably not the first thing you’d expect when someone says something about a ‘Harley lawnmower.’ Still, s ometimes the greatest joys in life come in completely unexpected forms. The great part is, if you want to do a swap like this, you don’t even need to be near Nashville to go buy yourself this Predator. Got some good weekend plans? You do … now.
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 forums, with many doubting the engine’s existence.
It appears this is no longer a rumor as google search has revealed as of March 15 that the Ghost is, in fact, a real kart racing engine. Truth be told, we had already been made aware that it’s been testing with a karting parts manufacturer and has been very promising in their results. I can’t elaborate any more on that currently, but I hope to soon in the future.
The big question is, what does this mean for karting? I see a lot of possibilities and have a lot of hope for this program.
Undoubtedly, the Harbor Freight 212 has been a prevalent and relatively successful class for many local or small tracks. So much that it has found its way to more significant national-sized events, it’s not hard to imagine that Harbor Freight sells more engines than all the other engine importers or manufacturers in karting. I would even say those engines bought specifically for karting alone exceed those numbers.
Obviously, it’s enough success that Harbor Freight made the conscious decision to make a dedicated kart racing engine. One of the most immediate reactions will be resistance. I have experienced this firsthand with the opposition to the Tillotson Racing Engines. The Briggs Stratton customer is fairly loyal to the brand and its US-centric stance, even though most of the engine’s parts are produced outside the US. And the others because it will dilute the current range of clone engines. I have some thoughts that make me believe otherwise.
Buckle up because there are many current events and context to go through. Let’s start with two of the prominent engine manufacturers: Briggs Stratton and Tillotson.
The Briggs Stratton LO206 is currently the dominant engine for the 4-cycle sprint. The Briggs probably makes up 50% or more of the sprint market in general. It’s a program with its foundation in the Briggs Animal that was made in the late 90s. The LO206 variation with a rev limited coil and rules controlled by Briggs created a very successful program over ten years old on its own. It has kept 4-cycle sprint racing alive, but it’s not the prominent engine in 4-cycle karting.
Briggs has had many issues if you have kept up with the news. An investment group owns Briggs Stratton after the business bankruptcy. From our experience as a Briggs dealer, we have seen a decline in the business for a few years. Briggs acquired many different lawnmower brands, which turned many of their customers into competitors. Many of those customers left Briggs for other brands. In 2018/2019, Briggs made a clerical error of sorts that left them with little to no inventory for their lawnmower engine market for most of the year. In 2019/2020, the covid pandemic added to their problems, pushing them into bankruptcy.
Briggs Stratton LO206 growing program was struck by these problems since the majority of the engine components are made outside of the US. Over the past two years, the LO206 has been very difficult to get in hand. We have talked to some of the figureheads in Quarter Midget Racing and Karting, looking for an alternative. Two of the other options are either Honda or Tillotson. None of them wanted to make the jump to another engine but felt forced into looking for alternatives to keep their tracks or businesses running.
There is one last point to make about the Briggs Program, and that is why it exists? The Briggs Racing program exists because it’s part of their marketing program, and since the Intek is no longer made, what are they advertising? Engine performance is very general, but it’s hard to explain that your racing engine doesn’t offer a power equipment alternative and that the Briggs Vanguard replaces its Intek line. Almost every manufacturer, including Briggs, now has various clones for their generators and small power equipment. I want to make this point because I believe Harbor Freight has a huge advantage and opportunity with their marketing of a racing engine.
Tillotson is the leading alternative for Briggs. The Tillotson 225RS was developed as the next step above the Briggs LO206 in power. While Briggs has the World Formula, it didn’t take off the same as the LO206. Both Briggs engines are getting long in the tooth, which is another reason the Tillotson looks appealing.
The Tillotson shares its design with the Honda GX160/200 Engines like the Harbor Freight engine. The clone has not only dominated 4-cycle racing but has all but eliminated all other manufacturers in the small displacement power equipment markets. The commonality of these engines presents a significant advantage over the Briggs as the parts are produced in far larger volumes which makes them very inexpensive. The aftermarket for these engines is also far more extensive. The Honda or Clones are the Chevy LS of the small engine world if that helps paint the picture.
The Tillotson 225RS made necessary improvements to make a superior clone engine. The block is far stronger than any other clone and rivals the Briggs. The engine’s increased displacement and combination of parts made it not only faster than the Briggs and other clones but an attempt to future-proof itself against other clone competitors.
Tillotson made a 196cc engine to compete against the 196 engines that ruled over the oval dirt tracks. Briggs Stratton recognized the competition of the Tillotson almost immediately. The former Briggs Racing Director acknowledged its superiority to other clones and would have an unfair advantage over them. The former Briggs director middling would contribute to the Tillotson 196 being banned in competition. I make this point to say there is an opportunity for either the Tillotson or Harbor Freight engines.
Tillotson’s current problem is participation. This problem improves as Briggs struggles to get back on track with their L0206 program. tracks and kart shops are interested in an engine they can stock, sell and race. The Tillotson 225RS makes 40-50% more power than the LO206 and will have a place in karting as a spec class above the LO206 and Ghost 212.
Harbor freight lawn mower engine
This is in the latest flyer, looks like a clone of the Honda V-Twin. 22HP for 600.00 may be worth looking into. Can’t find anymore info on it yet and it doesn’t show on the HF web site yet.
2264 with 54 GT deck 1641 AKA Black Jack with a 402-E Haban Sickle bar mower JD317 dump truck BX2660 with FEL Grassanator
I’d be interested in hearing reviews as well.
Just a side note a friend of mine’s son builds engines for carts and racing. He has found these China made engines are low cost and almost as good as the real Honda engines. I would say take a chance. price is right. Regards, Chris
Casbohm Maple and Honey www.mapleandhoney.com
Cubs: 147 R and the “train”, 127 elec lift, 127, 125, 106, 102, 100, 86, 73, Brinly plow, Snow thrower, 2 Rototillers, several mower decks and several snow plows, #1 cart, Grandkids barrel cart.
i watch a guy on YouTube that builds redneck lawnchairs. he uses the Honda clones, and they take alot of abuse.
cub cadet 71 that my pop pop got new and gave me in 85. restoration just started cub cadet 100. was a friends grandfathers, given to me in 93. restoration almost finished cub cadet 72, 150 dollar craigslist find, 38″ deck, worker cub cadet 127 basketcase, my dad bought in 84 cub cadet 71 beauty (formerly johncub7172’s) cub cadet 123, craigslist find
Allen Proud owner of my Original!
My Grandpa’s Cart Craftsman Lawn Sweeper Craftsman Plug Aerator
Not for Honda. they just tear them down and copied it hey lets ship a IH CubCadet GT over there (china).
I worked at a Honda dealer for a couple of years. I could not count the number of people who bought bikes, mowers, pumps etc. with china knock off brand motors on them. They would use them for a few hours and they would break or shake parts off of them. After getting no service and not being able to buy any parts from were they bought them they would bring them to us for repairs. Nothing we could do. We could not get the parts either. I buy my stuff to use not to just sit around looking for parts. There is a reason brand name cost more than knock offs. Only ever had 1 warranty claim on Honda motors. Honda replaced cab. and all was well, had part in a few days. I would not buy these knock off motors at half the asking price. I am cheap and lazy and like to buy and do things only once but it is your money buy what you want.
I’d consider it to Repower my deere 300. I just don’t have the fab tools / skills to make the parts myself. The Briggs kits are only 1400 with everything you need.
Cub 104 Refurbed Sprinig of 2013
Aftermarket headlights, 3 point, Brinly Adapter, Spring Assist, 42″ IH Blade, 42″ Mower Deck, 42″ Craftsman Grader Blade, 10″ Brinly Plow, 6-12 ags and 22×9.50 turfs
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brubakes
Yes I was looking at the 22HP Predator engine. Sounds like it may be a better option then previously though. What about mounting the PTO?
I am with you, I own 1-140 H3 which still runs well a 317 which also runs well. I also have a 317 with a blown kolher engine. I am thinking of getting a predator 22 HP for it. I don’t think you can go wrong for the price. What the heck, The blower tractor will be far from a standard JD anyway. I am making a small fork lift with it, also a wood processor power plant / and toy for other things, I may think of.
jdurnya
And then there were only 3. 1995 John Deere 425 AWS 1991 John Deere 420 1990 John Deere 430 Implements:
JD 40″ Tow Behind Core Aerator JD 40″ Front Mount DeThatcher JD 47 Snowblower JD 54″ Quick Hitch 4 way plow x2 JD Model 80 Cart JD Tow Behind Sprayer Custom front weight bracket / hitch receiver Custom 4×5 to 300 series frame adapter Custom Winch
Former Machines: 1996 John Deere LX176 my first Deere
rhenning
The V twins were on sale yesterday at my nearest HF fo 640 plus tax. You haven’t been able to use coupons on Preditors for a few years. Roger
I haven’t looked at the fine print of a coupon since the last 25% one I used on a Predator engine in April 2015 but at that time it read excluding “Predator powered”. Anyway it was accepted on line and delivered to my door for an additional 6.99 shipping, I couldn’t even ride a bicycle to the store for that.
Profound Ag
Lots of guys are using these engines to repower garden tractors. The only issues I’ve heard so far has been the low alternator output, so if you run electric accessories you may run into issues. It seems to have enough juice to run the PTO but not much more. It seems the engines run great and have lots of power.
Lots of guys are using these engines to repower garden tractors. The only issues I’ve heard so far has been the low alternator output, so if you run electric accessories you may run into issues. It seems to have enough juice to run the PTO but not much more. It seems the engines run great and have lots of power.
There is a good thread on WFM about installing the 22 predator in a 318. It seems the only issue is the stock muffler is a tad too big. I’ve thought about dropping one into a 420 I just bought for parts. I found this pic from a Craigslist ad and it looks like a clean install.
jerryh20
small engine warehouse has the shaft adaptors needed to make the swap. the engine mounting plate has to be reconfigured and the instrument panel connected. installing one in a scag tiger cub but not completed, so far so good.
Is there much of a solution for the low alternator output. I have a 317 with undiagnosed issues (long story). If it turns out the Kohler is fubared I’d be real interested in giving the predator a try. For the price I can put 2 or 3 of these in for the price of one Honda
Justy37
You could maybe mount a single wire ac delco alternator. I put one in a 600 bobcat. It’s not really one wire. The one wire goes to positive side of battery, and the casing/shell is the ground. Has it’s own internal regulator and keeps the old bobcat with a Wisconsin engine charged. Issue you would run into is mounting it.
Other option is, order a setup from a Honda engine. Change the internals for a higher amperes.
1963 953 wheel horse hydraulic lift 54″ dozer blade, 420cc Predator 60340. 2023 x390 deere with 54″ deck, 44″ snowblower.
Harbor freight lawn mower engine
Harbor Freight Tools at 800-444-3353 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT, email at recall@harborfreight.com or online at www.harborfreight.com and click on “Recall Safety Information” on the bottom of the homepage for more information.
This recall involves two models of 14 inch chainsaws sold under three different brand names. The Portland and One Stop Gardens brand chainsaws have a green and black color scheme and “Portland” printed on the blades. The Chicago Electric brand chainsaw has a red and black color scheme and “Chicago Electric” printed on the chainsaw handle. All recalled chainsaws were sold with a black blade guard. The model number is printed on a label on the bottom of the chainsaw.
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled chainsaws and return the product to their local Harbor Freight Tools store for a free replacement chainsaw. Replacement units will be available starting May 21, 2018.
Harbor Freight Tools has received 15 reports of chainsaws continuing to operate after being turned off by the operator, resulting in three laceration injuries including one serious injury to the arm requiring stitches.
Harbor Freight Tools stores nationwide and online at www.harborfreight.com from May 2009 through February 2018 for about 50.
Harbor Freight Tools, of Camarillo, Calif.
Note: Individual Commissioners may have statements related to this topic. Please visit www.cpsc.gov/commissioners to search for statements related to this or other topics.
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The pumps are not adequately grounded and can pose an electric shock hazard to the user.
Mammut Sports Group Recalls Alugator Ride 3.0 Hoe and Alugator Ride SE Avalanche Shovels Due to Risk of Injury or Death
The spring locking mechanism on the recalled avalanche shovels can fail in an emergency excavation of a person buried by an avalanche, posing a risk of injury or death for the buried person.
Kawasaki Motors USA Recalls Engines Sold on Ferris and SCAG Riding Lawn Mowers Due to Burn and Fire Hazards
The high-pressure fuel line can get damaged by contact with the fuel pump cover, causing a fuel leak that poses burn and fire hazards.
STIHL Incorporated Recalls Docking Stations Sold with STIHL iMOW Robotic Lawn Mowers Due to Fire Hazard
The docking station’s printed circuit board can short circuit when exposed to moisture, posing a fire hazard.
The insulation coating on the stove can ignite during use, posing a fire hazard.
The fin scroll of the chipper shredder can fail, ejecting pieces of metal from the chipper shredder hopper during operation, posing a laceration hazard.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than 450 trillion annually. CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products has contributed to a decline in the rate of injuries associated with consumer products over the past 50 years.
Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.
Harbor Freight Turbo Predator 670cc Dragster Blows Up on Racetrack
Yes, you read correctly. A Harbor Freight dragster is the topic where readers are treated to a slow-motion view of a Harbor Freight dragster powered by a turbocharge-modified Predator 670cc motor you can buy at Harbor Freight blows up on a speed track after reaching an estimated 8,500 RPMs.
Harbor Freight V-Twin Modified Engine Hijinks?
Remember those days when it came to DIY race-related projects where some dad with just a little too much time on his hands would decide to soup-up his riding lawnmower with a VW engine just for the hell (and fun) of it?!
Well, that was yesteryear. But today we have intrepid souls doing even wackier (and admittedly pretty impressive) things where Harbor Freight engines are modified and used in home-made dragsters.
From a recent Cars and Cameras YouTube channel episode you will bear witness to a team of mechanics who took a 670cc (approximately 55 HP) Harbor Freight V-twin engine with modifications that included adding a turbo to it, and watch it blow up on a racetrack as it powers a DIY dragster.
Affordable Automotive Race Tech Experience
I’ve said this before and I will say it again, when it comes to regrets in life, I believe that the most commonly shared regret is having been born in the wrong time period. There are so many cool things that happened in the 50’s and 60’s with automotive race tech that was a special period for the uncommon common man. In other words, back in the day you could scratch build some impressive cars using scavenged parts when spark, fuel, compression and close-enough timing was all you needed to send you hurtling noisily down a road with something you built with your own hands and a bit of luck.
Which brings me to the point of the topic and the value in watching these type of videos-if you can dream it, you can build it. And these guys are proof of the fact that if you cannot be born in the time period you covet, you can bring the time period to you…and make it affordable.
The value behind these kinds of activities is that there is a lot of tech knowledge involved and practical automotive learning experience that you can enjoy and share with a young mind needing direction with this kind of innovative fun.
‘Nuff said, here is the video posted below, but to gain a real appreciation of the Harbor Freight dragster blow up, be sure to check out the pre-show video made last July where the mechanics do a show and tell of adding a turbocharger to their Harbor Freight engine.
Replacing the Engine
Every engine swap won’t be as easy as mine was, but many will. There were only eight bolts to deal with, plus the coupling to swap onto the crankshaft. Four bolts held the engine on the frame, and four fastened the hydraulic pump and coupling to the engine. Once I removed them, I pulled the coupling from the crankshaft on the old engine, put it on the new engine, and bolted it together on the log splitter. The last thing I did was put a quart of oil (purchased separately) in the engine. The whole project, from start to finish with the engine running, took less than two hours—and that included scraping a lot of oily crud off the log splitter frame and putting a trailer hitch on my utility vehicle to tow it around the property.