1. This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Learn More.

How To Lube Chain While Keeping It Looking Clean?

Discussion in 'Detailing and cleaning' started by dubcat, Apr 25, 2019.

  1. Yes this is what i do....
    but you can use GT/85 or WD40 but only use it to clean the sides of the chain... spray it on a rag - Not on the chain - Grab the chain with the oily rag & spin the wheel by hand, it takes time to get the chain gunk off so persevere...:cool:
     
    • Agree Agree x 1
    • Useful Useful x 1
    • Agree Agree x 1
  2. If you don't want it on the shiny side plates of your chain.............

    .............don't spray it on there.

    I used to use Wurth Chain Lube, but not the Dry version.....I used the white stuff that used to froth up a bit.

    With O-ring chains, you only need to dribble it onto the O-rings between the plates and on the rollers where they touch the plates.

    If you do get any on the side plates, just wipe it off with a bit of WD40 on a rag.

    I also used it to lubricate the throttle linkage between the carbs, easy to apply.

    But now don't use nuffink, because I have belt drive.
     
    • Useful Useful x 1
  3. I bought mine from m&p from their eBay account.
    https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Ipone-Ch...931578&hash=item1edf7d88f1:g:5PIAAOSw7Bda4Xzz
     
    • Like Like x 1
  4. +1

    Rex
     
  5. I used to clean and lube when it needed it but I've changed my ways.
    Now, I clean my chain by wiping a rag doused with Simple Green following each ride day.
    It only takes a minute or two.
    Consequently, I need very little chain lube on these modern sealed chains.
    Once clean, I only use a little bit on a rag, while turning the wheel just to prevent surface rust and keep the o-rings moist.
    It looks like this each day.
    Screenshot from 2020-05-04 16:23:40.png
     
    #46 DarR, May 9, 2020
    Last edited: May 9, 2020
    • Like Like x 1
  6. Yes never do this with the engine running back in the day a mate if mine had an immaculate X7 and was very obsessed with keeping it clean he cleaned the chain with the engine running and we'll you've guessed it he lost 2 of his fingers..... OUCH
     
  7. Which product? https://simplegreen.com/products/ There are so many. We don't get those this side of the ocean so would need to workout an equivalent.
     
  8. I use the one shown on the attached photo however, the new containers have changed somewhat.
    61dMOW3NdFL._SL1300_.jpg
    Consequently, I will have to re-load with one of the following products:
    https://simplegreen.com/en-ca/household/products/all-purpose-cleaner/
    https://simplegreen.com/en-ca/household/products/pressure-washer-heavy-duty-cleaner/
    https://simplegreen.com/en-ca/industrial/products/industrial-cleaner-degreaser-lemon/


    The stuff is very mild compared to kerosene which I also have for tough road tar grime.
    Simple Green is good for wheels also and smells good. Kerosene stinks and lingers.
     
    #49 DarR, May 9, 2020
    Last edited: May 9, 2020
    • Thanks Thanks x 1
  9. I clean the chain using parrafin small paintbrush or soft toothbrush, don’t know why the other half got upset when her teeth went black one day!! I have only used Castrol racing chain lube for the past 10 years or so, defo my preferred, seems to live without flinging it all off in a few miles. Possibly a quick wipe with a rag and WD40 spayed on makes it look mint.
     
    • Funny Funny x 1
  10. If you use a cleaning product that contains a lubricating agent such as WD-40, then it's a one step job.
    Although I have a few cans of the stuff (and previously used it for the chain), I just find that the film it leaves behind attracts dirt. Otherwise I would use it as my goto product. Moreover, I don't use a messy spray. I apply both the cleaner and a bit of lube (motor oil or whatever) with a rag.
     
  11. Obviously you guys are experts because I tried to clean my chain on the paddock stand and the wheel/tyre got covered, like a horrendous bukkaki!

    I’m guessing it’s clean bike with soap, dry, wax, then chain but I feel like I have to clean the rear wheel after.

    I can’t see how it’s possible to clean the chain without covering the inside of the rear wheel.....

    Also, retarded question but how long does the lube last? Because I would lube my chain after cleaning and then leave until the next ride which is generally 2-6 weeks away. Has the lube not completely evaporated, by then?
     
  12. Perhaps you guys in the UK don't have bugs but here in Canada we have one or two.
    After each ride day, I clean those with a hot water shammy. I then take a moment to wipe the chain clean with SG. Then spin a lightly oiled rag around it and Done.
     
  13. I put a piece of thick semi-rigid plastic sheet about 400mm square between the chain and wheel to stop spray going on the wheel/tyre. Something from IKEA years ago thoughtfully 'repurposed';)
     
    • Useful Useful x 1
  14. I clean my chain first, then clean the bike, otherwise as you say the wheel gets filthy again as the chain is cleaned. although you can do what Keith_P says above and put something inbetween.

    Oh, and I use Wurth dry lube.



    Although in theory you shouldn't need to use any lube with modern O/X ring chains:thinkingface:
     
  15. I dont spray, so my wheel stays clean.
    Paraffin/Kerosene dribbled on from (A dribbler? create your own) brush then wipe.
    Repeat with gear oil (brush and wipe Different brush and rag)
    Then wipe with the same oil soaked rag as lat time...
    Chain is drier... nooks and cranny's stay lubed.
    I do my chain every week. Usually after a Thursday or Friday evening ride so it is ready for the weekend.
    I DO... Put a long piece of cardboard under the chain so that if anything drips it stays off the garage floor.

    Rex
     
    • Thanks Thanks x 1
  16. Sorry to veer off-topic , but can you remember what you used to stick those pieces of gutter together ?

    I've got a similar job on the go right now
     
    • Like Like x 1
  17. An industrial heat gun, 3M Scottish-weld hot melt applicator EC. I used 3748Q glue sticks & module 4 for that job...so yes I do remember ;) Got it from vikingtapes its wince type money including value-added-theft.

    [​IMG]


    @oldtech Could be done with a number of simple epoxy glues frankly. My next version of that will tilt & have ability to raise & decend because my two bikes have chains on opposite sides.
     
    #58 GunZenBomZ, May 10, 2020
    Last edited: May 10, 2020
    • Useful Useful x 1
  18. @GunZenBomZ

    Thank you for the info :upyeah:

    Some of those specialized 3M adhesive products are incredible .

    I'm going to try Sikaflex .
    Motorhomers love it .... eg. for attaching solar panel brackets to the vehicle roof .

    I want something that has high strength but doesn't go brittle with age , so epoxy is less suitable ...
    ... I think ...:rolleyes:
     
    • Like Like x 1
  19. Thanks ..... yeah , not cheap !

    What do the modules do ?
    I looked at the data sheet on the website but still none-the-wiser ....
    ..... different heaters for different sticks ?
     
Do Not Sell My Personal Information