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9/15/2021
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Rochester, NY
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Hey guys,
Had a quick question to see what the majority recommends here. I currently have a 23' Crf250R that is nearing time for a top end and refresh(cam chain, ect). I was quoted roughly $1700 for parts and labor. My question is, how big of an undertaking is it? I'm fairly mechanically inclined, worked on car engines quote a bit, and used to help my Dad with swapping top ends on two strokes. My only inclination of paying someone to do it is just the peace of mind knowing everything was done properly as I have never even cracked open a top end on one.
Thanks guys!
$1700? Holy shit. They really aren't that bad. Your service manual will show and explain all the steps clear and concisely. You also have YouTube at your disposal. There are a lot of videos on that bike. Hell, I just watched a video of a guy do the entire motor, bottom, top and oil pump on a 2019 (very similar motor) for shits and gigs. I say, get out in the garage and start wrenching. Also, since the cam chain on that bike is on the clutch side you won't have to purchase a flywheel puller. Not that it's a big deal but that'll save you a few bucks. Good luck!
This guy's videos are really good.
And honestly, i would be more stressed out having someone else work on my stuff. I'm able to see the entire process and how good or bad everything looks while I'm in there.
Thanks man! I really appreciate it.
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$1700 including piston and gaskets isn’t bad. But the head is the most expensive if the seats need to be cut and intake valves replaced. I do top/bottom ends but have to send the head out for service. You can do the top, just take your time and watch a few tutorials.
Sounds like a solid winter time project. Follow the manual, take a bunch of pictures and zip lock bag bolts / nuts as you take it apart. You’ll be ahead of the game money wise.
If you are that worried about screwing it up and don’t mind traveling about 3 hours, we could set up a day and walk you through it. I’m a half hour from Unadilla. Once you learn to do one, you can do them all. For OEM parts you’re looking at around $3-400 for the piston set, cam chain and gasket kit. Head disassembly doesn’t take long and checking specs of the valves, springs, guides, and seats is critical for a durable and powerful bike.
As @hubbardmx50 said, the service manual will show you each step, what to check, and tolerances, it should be available from your local Honda dealer, or direct from the publisher Helm...
https://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?Make=AHC&Model=CR25&Year=2023&Category=&class%5F2=AHC&mk=Honda+Powersports&yr=2023&md=CRF250R&dt=&module=&from=result&Style=helm&Sku=61K9550&itemtype=N
It will be the best $50 you spend on your bike!
For $1700 id do it myself. A piston and cam chain are no biggie. Just have the right tools for the specific jobs. If it requires valves and seats then yeah thats beyond me at that point.
Thanks for all the replies guys. I may take a crack at it. I do have the service manual so that should make things easier. The bike only has 50 hours on it so I can’t imagine any head work will be needed beyond checking tolerances. It is something I’d like to know how to do and winter seems like as good of a time as any.
Most important thing to make sure you do right the first time is ring end gap. I've seen a few bikes come in due to not having the rings right.
If you are mechanically inclined, definitely do it yourself. Take your time, follow the manual, etc. You can do it.
Compressing the rings might get a little tricky. Some use ring compressors or zip ties, some put the piston in the cylinder first and then put that as a unit on the rod. But yeah, you can do it.
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