Upgrade your engine’s strength and reliability with the EC Pinnacle 3.303” Forged Rod, engineered for high-RPM and high-stress applications. This rod is a direct replacement for most Honda GX200 and 196cc Clone engines, including Tillotson 196R, 212R, and select Ducar-based platforms.

With stock-length geometry and compatibility for .709” wrist pins and 1.180” crank pins, this rod is ideal for builders seeking to maintain factory stroke while significantly increasing durability over cast or billet alternatives.

Installation Guide:
Click here to view EC’s Connecting Rod Installation Guide »

What Makes the Pinnacle Forged Rod Superior?

Forged from billet ingots, this rod undergoes precision die pressing to align the grain structure for improved molecular density. This process yields:

• Increased strength-to-weight ratio

• Greater ductility – Resists cracking under extreme loads

• Improved fatigue resistance – Ideal for high-RPM racing

• Better impact absorption – Handles sudden load changes under high compression

Unlike cast or standard billet rods, forged rods are preferred in competitive and endurance engines where component failure is not an option.

Rod Assembly Includes:

• EC Pinnacle 3.303” Forged Connecting Rod

• #8394 High-Performance Rod Bearing

• #8383 Precision Rod Bolts

• Torque Spec: 150 in-lbs using standard engine oil

Fitment & Compatibility:

Designed for engines with:

• .709” wrist pin

• 1.180” crank journal

Compatible Engines:

• Honda GX160 / GX200

• Clone 196cc / Ducar 196

• Tillotson 196R / 212R

• Tillotson 212E, Ducar 212, Ghost 212

• Ducar / Predator 224 Non-Hemi – Crank fits, but stock piston must be replaced

• Wildcat 223 – ~.050” in the hole

• Wildcat 240 – ~.010” in the hole

Not Compatible With:

• Predator 212 Crankshafts (1.188” journal)

• Predator 224 Hemi

• Factory pistons with non-standard wrist pin sizes

Piston deck height will vary based on stroke, piston compression height, and rod length.

Ideal For:

• Stock stroke race engines

• Builders upgrading from cast or billet rods

• Small-block performance engines needing higher reliability

• Kart racers, mini bike racers, and endurance builds

FAQ

Q1: What engines does the EC Pinnacle 3.303 rod fit?

A: This rod fits most Honda GX200 and 196cc Clone-style engines, including Tillotson 196R, 212R, and Ducar 196/212. It also fits Ghost 212 and Wildcat 223/240 engines. It is not compatible with Predator 212 crankshafts or the Predator 224 Hemi.

Q2: Will it work with my stock piston?

A: Yes, if your piston uses a .709” wrist pin. However, for engines like the Predator 224 Non-Hemi, you’ll need to switch to a compatible aftermarket piston since the stock one won't fit.

Q3: What's the benefit of a forged rod over a billet or cast rod?

A: Forged rods are stronger, lighter, and more resistant to fracture under high RPM or compression. They’re ideal for race and performance applications where durability is critical.

Q4: What crankshaft journal does this rod fit?

A: It fits crankshafts with a 1.180” crank journal—standard on most Honda GX200/Clone engines. It does not fitPredator 212 crankshafts (which use a 1.188” journal).

Q5: How much torque should be used on the rod bolts?

A: Torque the included 8383 rod bolts to 150 in-lbs using standard engine oil as lubricant. Always verify torque specs if using alternate fasteners or bearings.

Q6: How does this rod affect piston-to-deck height?

A: In most GX200/196cc blocks, this rod places the piston at or near zero deck, depending on your piston’s compression height and stroke.

• Wildcat 223: ~.050” in the hole

• Wildcat 240: ~.010” in the hole