My friend just bought a 1988 LT250R. It needs some work but over all it's in good shape.

Question 1) Can the rear shock be rebuilt. If not what is a good replacement.

Question 2) How hard is it to replace rear axle bearings.

Question 3) There is a wicked vibration in the handle bars. The guy he bought it from says it started when he put a fatty pipe on. Could this be improper installation of the pipe?

Any help would be great.

 

400ex, sounds like your friend needs to invest in a service manual. Axle and bearing work is best left to someone with a general knowledge of mechanics. Maybe your friend can do his own work but then, I can't understand how a fatty pipe would have anything to do with the handlebars shaking. Has he considered the nearby dealer?
Chuck, Suzuki KQ 300, GPS & lunch...

 

The shock can be rebuilt and revalved. The pipe would more than likely not cause the handle bars to shake. Check all motor mounts and if thats not it, it might need to have the balancer checked. If he buys a Clymer it will give great directions. The Axle bearings are a easy job, but only if you know your basics.

 

The shock can be rebuilt. My only question is what type of riding do you do and would it be worth it for you to buy an aftermarket shock?? Sounds like the vibration is coming from the counterbalancer. Check the alignment of the teeth on the counterbalancer shaft. (this requires removing the RH side engine cover) There are two small dots one is on the counterbalancer shaft and the other is on the gear next to it. These two dots should line up. ----Ben 88LT250R