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So I just bought my first crf 250r and it was in pieces with no idea why it was torn apart. The bike definitely has very low hours. Given that it's all stock and the minimal amount of wear. What I have found is the needle bearing in the exhaust rocker has failed. Which caused damage to the cam. I do not know what caused this to happen. I have plans to get a piston kit with gaskets along with a cam and rocker. Its all stock except a sticker kit. The previous owner has passed so I am unable to ask him about it..

Hello, well it sounds like you have taken on Covid project. Good to keep busy. Sounds like you have a pretty good grasp on what is going to be required.
First guess on the failure is oil starvation. Lack of oil or lack of oil flow.
First and foremost is a factory service manual. I would be inspecting & checking the oil pump and all the oil system for function and cleanliness through all passages.
They are actually pretty easy engines to work on and the factory service manual is excellent.
We will be looking forward to hearing what you find and how the build goes. Good luck.

Just see if you can find all the rollers and flush out well to remove any debris.

I am feeling good about this. It looks like there's a good amount of rollers in there. Is there any kind of cage or separator that is between the needles. Also does anybody know how many needles there is ? I have been shopping for new parts for it but am not sure what the interchange is between years or if any are interchangable. Or is there really any benefits of a different year or manufacturer. I am next checking the oil filter. I have learned from a good old time friend and also dealership owner that the filter can be put in backwards. Thanks again for your quick response. not sure if I can post any pics with this to show what I started with and where I am now. This is my type of jig saw to keep my mind stable in these times we have been enduring these days.

So mini me and I checked out the filter and things. We are unable to get any info from prior owner since he is no longer with us. We're just wondering what the interchange between other years is on the camshaft and exhaust rocker. My girlfriend seems to think it doesn't belong in the living room.lol..i say my 94 cr250r would be lonely..thanks and hopefully hear something back soon. Oh and since it's apart should we update or up grade valves or clips and retainers? Maybe springs?