I just purchased a 85 atc250r and now I need to get it ready for easter at the dunes. I need help figuring out how to lube the rear axle. I noticed that there is a plug in the rear of the carrier and need to know if that is where a fitting goes or other lubricant. thanks

 

Actually, if the rear bearing carrier is stock, there is no way to lubricate it. The bolt in the swingarm is just a stop for the rotation of the concentric chain tensioning system.

The carrier fits into the swingarm, the bearings fit into the carrier. Also, it would be a good idea not to lubricate the carrier inside the swingarm (by inserting lubricant into the bolt hole previously mentioned). This will cause the carrier to be able to rotate within the swingarm and adjust the chain on the fly for you, not a desirable thing.

The carrier uses sealed ball bearings, there is no real way to lubricate them, even if you disassemble the unit. If the bearings are loose, you would be well advised to replace them as soon as possible, if they come apart, they will do extensive damage.

I use a tapered roller bearing setup in mine. It has a grease zerk so you can pump the whole carrier full of grease. You still have to remove the carrier from the swingarm though. If need be, the bearings can be removed and repacked... The tapered roller setup has worked well for me for about 3 or 4 years now, you just lose a little chain adjustment. From what I have heard, the aftermarket double ball bearing setups work pretty well too.