Market Segment:
High-performance sport ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) for racing and recreational off-road use.
Key Competitors:
Honda TRX250R, Yamaha Banshee (though later model), Kawasaki Tecate-4.
Vehicle Strengths:
Powerful 2-stroke engine, agile handling, robust chassis, and competitive pricing for its performance class during its production years.
Value For Owner:
Enables owners to perform extensive maintenance and repairs themselves, saving significant costs compared to professional service. Provides in-depth understanding of vehicle systems for enthusiasts and DIY mechanics.
Applicable Model Years:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992
Specific Models Covered:
LT250RJ (1988), LT250RK (1989), LT250RL (1990), LT250RM (1991), LT250RN (1992)
Estimated Page Count:
High (typical for factory service manuals covering multiple years, likely 300+ pages)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
File Format:
PDF Download
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, repair, component removal/installation, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, hoses, thermostat, fan (if applicable).
Fuel Systems:
Carburetor (mikuni VM26SS), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, mixture screw adjustment, pilot jet, main jet, troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, lighting, charging system (magneto), starter, switches, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical faults (no spark, etc.).
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shock/swingarm linkage), steering, brakes (front and rear), wheels, tires, bodywork, plastics.
Transmission:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gear shifting mechanism, internal transmission components (if detailed in the manual).
General Information:
Includes vehicle identification, safety precautions, general troubleshooting, torque specifications, and special tools required.
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brake system servicing, including caliper overhaul, bleeding, pad replacement, and rotor inspection.
Maintenance:
Periodic maintenance, tune-up procedures, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid), filter replacement, chain adjustment, spark plug service.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, troubleshooting common problems, identifying error codes (if applicable).
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Component Installation Removal:
Detailed procedures for removing and installing major components like engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, etc.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for full engine disassembly, crankshaft and connecting rod service, piston replacement, cylinder honing/boring, and reassembly.
Suspension Service:
Procedures for front fork maintenance (oil changes, seal replacement), rear shock absorber service, and swingarm/linkage bearing maintenance.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and clearances.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Extensive use of exploded views, diagrams, and photographs to aid in part identification and assembly procedures.
Engine Type:
2-stroke, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
Displacement:
246cc (246 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
66.0 mm x 72.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 7.1:1 (subject to specific year/tune)
Horsepower:
Estimated 24-28 HP at peak (varies by year and tuning)
Torque:
Not explicitly stated in product info, but typical for class.
Carburetor Model:
Mikuni VM26SS (Single)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (typically 91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
2-stroke specific premix oil (ratio specified in manual, typically 20:1 or 32:1)
Transmission Oil Type:
Suzuki Gear Oil API GL-4 SAE 80W-90 (check manual for specific capacity)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled with radiator and fan.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual, typically after break-in and every 10-20 hours of operation or annually. Gear oil typically every 6 months or 100 hours.
Spark Plug Service:
Check and clean/gap every few rides, replace as needed. Manual will specify type and gap.
Air Filter Maintenance:
Clean and re-oil regularly, especially in dusty conditions. Manual will detail method and filter oil.
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol-based) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Manual will specify capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Manual will specify the exact amount for the transmission/clutch lubrication, separate from the 2-stroke premix. Typically around 1 liter.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor jetting (clogging), rear shock absorber (sealing/damping), wheel bearings, swingarm pivot bearings, chain and sprockets, clutch wear, exhaust leaks.
Engine Performance Tips:
Proper jetting, clean air filter, correct 2-stroke oil/fuel mix, and regular decarbonization are crucial for optimal 2-stroke performance.
Valve Clearance:
N/A (2-stroke engine, no valves to adjust in the conventional sense).
Tire Pressures:
Refer to manual, typically around 3-5 psi for rear and 4-7 psi for front depending on terrain.
Suzuki Atv Legacy:
Suzuki has a long and successful history in ATV manufacturing, known for performance and reliability. The LT-Z series followed this legacy.
Lt250R Development:
The LT250R, introduced in 1985, was Suzuki's answer to the growing sport ATV market. The 1987-1992 generation (often referred to as the 'second generation') featured significant updates, including liquid cooling, revised suspension, and chassis improvements, culminating in the models covered by this manual.
Production Period:
1985-1992 (overall for LT250R, with this manual covering the latter part of its run).