Cleaning A Bicycle Chain

[Wester]

My chain is pretty dirty and i need to clean it without removing it from the chain rings / sprockets what is the best way to do it and the best solution to use

Also what effect does a dirty chain have on the well being of your bike

 

[mickle]

This forum has a great search function!

 

[HovR]

A dirty chain can cause accelerated wear of drivechain components, poor shifting and sometimes excess drivechain noise.

The best way to clean a chain on a bike is just to get a lot of rags, and wipe it till clean. Covering the rags in something like GT85 helps in serious cases. After you have cleaned the chain, apply lubricant.

The alternative is to buy a specific chain cleaning tool, however these use horrible solvents and wash the lubricant out of the inside of your chain - so not ideal.

 

[kayaker]

This post reminded me, something i wondered about the mickle method, is that wiping will clean the side plates but what about in between the plates and the pins? Thanks in advance for any enlightment.
Chris

 

[TheDoctor]

The gaps between the plates and pins are so tight you'll not get anything in. Or out, for that matter...

 

[boydj]

Recommended method is lube & wipe until clean. I do this and periodically use a chain-cleaning tool, but instead of solvent, I use a light oil - http://www.ukbikestore.co.uk/product/29/pr11030/progold-prolink-chain-lube-16oz-spay.html . Works for me commuting in all weathers.

 

[the_mikey]

I recommend wiping the chain clean, maybe use a brush if it's really bad, baby wipes seem to do the trick, old rags are even better.

 

[Wester]

Would a Toothbrush do a good job

 

[Linford]

A small quantity of paraffin, a 1" paintbrush, and a bit of elbow grease

 

[PpPete]

Paraffin is a solvent. NOT recommended.

 

[Linford]

Paraffin is a solvent. NOT recommended.

Eh - he is asking for an effective cleaner, and parafin is just that - Clean properly, and then re lube.

How do you think they lube the chains in the factory after assembly ?

 

[User482]

Eh - he is asking for an effective cleaner, and parafin is just that - Clean properly, and then re lube.

How do you think they lube the chains in the factory after assembly ?

Paraffin is unnecessary and counter productive. Mickle will tell you why.

 

[Linford]

If you use a chain wax, this will hold the grit. I favour a really thorough clean, and fresh lube. Not sure what Mickle does

 

[mickle]

Not sure what Mickle does

As if.

 

[Linford]

As if.

We don't always see eye to eye, but I do respect your knowledge on all things cycling Mickle.

What problem do you have with giving it all a really thorough clean if it is properly lubed afterwards ?