Chain cleaner: Yes? No? Maybe?

Mack · 08-15-2010, 05:55 PM

Specifically, this thing: Deluxe Chaindrain Kit

It's been almost 2,000 miles and yet to be cleaned (since new). Maybe a spray can oiling every 500 miles - or whenever I feel like it.

Messy chain cleaning ain't on my high-priorities list. Maybe this contraption would help?

Mack

Toynut · 08-15-2010, 07:13 PM

I have one of their kits and it works quite well. Their cleaner does a good job but you will probably use one can per session if the chain is really gritty (particularly if you use the sticky waxy type of chain lube). I would order extra cans for future use. I still place a piece of cardboard underneath the left side of the bike just in case I get a bit to loose with the spray lube.
Review of the product:
Chain Drain Chain Cleaner Chain Cleaning System- webBikeWorld

Try Dupont chain saver lube with Teflon. It works great and won't pick up too much street crud in the links.
Write up on it:
DuPont Teflon Chain Saver - DuPont Teflon Chain Lube - webBikeWorld

crabman · 08-15-2010, 08:30 PM

I know we all have our different ways of doing it but for me I use kerosene based engine cleaner. With my bike up on a stand spray the cleaner on the chain as it runs over the sprocket. I use the same brush they use in the above review and then spray it again. Rinse it with water, wipe it dry and then use WD-40 to displace the moisture, wipe off the excess. I let it sit for a few hours and then ride it for a couple miles bring it home and put PJ1 Blue label on it and let it sit overnite. Works well for me, I do this about every 3K miles.

holliebibi · 09-01-2010, 03:29 AM

I am agree with chain cleaner.I use degreaser or kerosene to clean the chain and rims. its best to do it in a pure stand, if you can clean kero tires with soapy water to ensure that you do not have a soft patch

DrIoannis · 09-01-2010, 01:47 PM

I clean it with kerosane every 600km and lube it every 300km...

H-2 CHARLIE · 09-01-2010, 02:39 PM

I use kerosene like the manurfacture says ... a rag extra damp but not dripping all over every 1000 miles ,then dupont teflon dry wax after every ride, dry rag wipe then spray teflon .... im due now for a kerosene cleaning . The cut board between the frame & rim keeps the mess off the rear rim .

shashankmittal · 09-01-2010, 02:44 PM

Kerosene is good, but I prefer Motorex chain clean. It works better and does not leave a mess.

Prowler · 09-01-2010, 05:47 PM

i use tirox chain cleaner and then use rags to wipe clean,then dupont teflon chain saver.

R1HOOLIGAN · 09-02-2010, 07:11 AM

Every 500 miles or so I blast the chain with WD-40, wipe it down good and then apply a lubricant such as the aforementioned Dupont lubricant. The chain is the most ignored part of the bike. If you keep it cleaned/lubed/adjusted, the chain (and sprockets) will last quite a long time. I've gotten as much as 15K miles out of a chain. Remember, always change the chain and sprockets at the same time. Maintaining your chain will save you a wad of cash.

**1000RR** · 09-02-2010, 10:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by R1HOOLIGAN

Every 500 miles or so I blast the chain with WD-40, wipe it down good and then apply a lubricant such as the aforementioned Dupont lubricant. The chain is the most ignored part of the bike. If you keep it cleaned/lubed/adjusted, the chain (and sprockets) will last quite a long time. I've gotten as much as 15K miles out of a chain. Remember, always change the chain and sprockets at the same time. Maintaining your chain will save you a wad of cash.