I just recently completed a Ryobi conversion and I would like to share my experience.

I discovered that a simple piece of squared aluminum tubing makes a good engine mount for a Ryobi conversion. The dimensions can be 2.5"x3" or 3"x3" with a 1/8" thickness. Make a template for the mounting screws, transfer that to the mount and use a 2" hole saw to cut an opening for the carb.

I also used aircraft ply to create the carb spacer. After tracing the shape using a carb gasket I cut the spacer using a scroll saw. I then used 30-minute epoxy to seal the wood. To ensure a perfectly level spacer I placed it, when wet with epoxy, between two flat steel surfaces and placed 50 lbs of weight on them. This pressure resulted in a flat glass like finish on the spacer.

The only things I had to pay for were the prop hub and additional gaskets. I balanced the flywheel but I did not machine the fines. The stock muffler does cause some back pressure but it does allow you to pass any noise testing.

I hope this helps.

Norman