ATHENA Connecting Rod Kit + engine gasket kit for KTM SXF 250, XCF 250, HUSQVARNA FC 250 and GAS GAS EXF 250, MCF 250 2016-2022

The ATHENA PB322089 connecting rod kit is designed for KTM SXF 250, XCF 250, GAS GAS EXF 250, MCF 250 and HUSQVARNA FC 250 from 2016 to 2022. The connecting rod links the piston to the crankshaft and takes the most violent loads in the engine. Its big-end bearing and crank pin wear over the hours: play at the big end is the warning sign of a failure that can wreck the whole engine.

Key features

• High-strength forged connecting rod made in Japan.
• Supplied with crank pin, needle bearing and thrust washers, depending on the application.
• Fits to original dimensions, with no modification.

Specifications

• Brand: ATHENA
• Manufacturer part number: PB322089
• EAN code: 8053300714919
• Weight: 890 g
• Engine: 4-stroke

When to replace it?

• Vertical play at the big end at top dead centre.
• Side play out of tolerance, signs of overheating (bluing).
• Vibration and dull noise from the bottom end.

During a bottom end rebuild, at the intervals in the service manual, and without delay as soon as play appears at the big end.

Fitting tips

1. Replacing a connecting rod means pressing the crankshaft apart and then realigning it: with a dial indicator, you check the run-out, i.e. the deviation in rotation measured at the end of the shaft, which must stay within a few hundredths of a millimetre at most. Leave this job to a properly equipped workshop if you don't have a press and a truing stand.
2. Replace the crankshaft bearings and oil seals at the same time.
3. Check the big-end side play after assembly.
4. Close up the engine with the engine gasket set included in the kit and tighten to the manufacturer's torque.
5. Check the gearbox bearings, then fill up with fresh oil and fit a new spark plug.

Why ATHENA?

Athena, an Italian company founded in 1973 near Vicenza, designs gaskets, pistons and cylinder kits for motorcycles. An OEM supplier to KTM, Ducati, Fantic, Piaggio and Triumph and a partner of the MXGP world championship, it develops its parts on the test bench and on the track with racing teams.

Spare parts and items to plan

• Crankshaft bearings and seals : see the selection
• Gearbox bearings : HOT RODS TBK0060 · HOT RODS TBK0111
• 4-stroke engine oil : LIQUI MOLY 10W40 1 L · MOTUL 10W50
• Spark plug : NGK 97225 · NGK 3521

Frequently asked questions

Is the gasket kit included?
Yes: this kit contains the connecting rod and an engine gasket kit, so you can close up the engine with new gaskets.

Can I fit the connecting rod myself?
Yes, if you have a press and a crankshaft truing stand; otherwise, an engine workshop can do it for you.

What else should I plan for?
The crankshaft bearing and seal kit, the gearbox bearings if required, engine oil and a new spark plug.

Compatibility

Check the exact model and year of your bike in the list below before ordering.

Fits:
GAS GAS EXF 250 2022
GAS GAS EXF 250 2021
GAS GAS MCF 250 2022
GAS GAS MCF 250 2021
HUSQVARNA FC 250 2022
HUSQVARNA FC 250 2021
HUSQVARNA FC 250 2020
HUSQVARNA FC 250 2019
HUSQVARNA FC 250 2018
HUSQVARNA FC 250 2017
HUSQVARNA FC 250 2016
KTM SXF 250 2022
KTM SXF 250 2021
KTM SXF 250 2020
KTM SXF 250 2019
KTM SXF 250 2018
KTM SXF 250 2017
KTM SXF 250 2016
KTM XCF 250 2022
KTM XCF 250 2021
KTM XCF 250 2020
KTM XCF 250 2019