I was told to use a teflon-based aerosol regularly. I do this (it's some cerflon formula), but the chain is rusty (it's only two months old!). I commute a ton, so having a noisy chain is driving me crazy and worrying about the damage it is causing is making me worry too. What do I do?
I've heard that mostly dry climates can use the dry lube-it won't pick up as much dust. My climate is Indiana, likely to change every ten minutes. Do I stick with teflon based (which I picked up in the automotive section of Walmart) and just change my lubing routine or do I find something else?
2007-09-19 17:56:47 · 8 answers · asked by Amy 4 in Sports ➔ Cycling
Replace the chain once it gets rusty it junk. When you get the new chain first use solvent to remove all the grease from it as the grease will prevent which ever lubricant from properly doing it's job.
If you're using a Teflon based product like Triflow don't use the aerosol get the squeeze bottle and drip one small drop on each link pin.
If you want to use a something like White Lightning again make sure the chain is clean and dry then follow instructions for application.
Over the years I've used both but like the White Lightning better as it's less greasy.
When you're not riding you bike try to keep it out of the elements, if that's not possible then use 5w/30 motor oil. Brush it on allow it to soak in then use a rag to wipe off most of the excess. It's messy but offers more protection from rust.
2007-09-19 18:12:54 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
I would recommend Three in one brand oil. Take an old rag and wet it with the oil and wipe the chain with it. If you hold the rag on the chain( so you get both side,s of the chain at the same time) and turn the crank backward you can clean and lube at the same time. Do this once a week and you will keep the chain in great shape. All way,s use a good penetrating oil like Three in One Or W D 40. And if you keep the rag in a zip lock baggie it will stay oily and you will not need to add as much oil each time.
2007-09-20 17:44:23 · answer #2 · answered by revtobadblack 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't use that spray. I have it around for other uses. It's too light a lube, only some teflon in a WD40 like base. Someone mentioned white lightening - - that's what I use. There are many other chain lubes and most are fine I'm sure. Since it's new the rust is just started get it lubed up proper and you should be fine.
2007-09-20 00:20:12 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most ppl don't remove the chain, tho that is best. If you do, put it in a container with a strong detergent, let it sit there a while, then swish it about a lot. Repeat until the water remains clean. Rinse well and let dry. Lube with a bicycle chain lube. Wipe all excess lube off before reinstalling. On the bike, turn the bike up side down. Spray the chain with a strong detergent, brush it well with an old tooth brush, rinse well. Let dry before lubing. Wipe off all excess lube.
2016-05-19 00:20:28 · answer #4 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
NOTHING AT WAL-MART SHOULD BE USED ON A BICYCLE!!!
Your "Teflon lube" is NOT bicycle lube. Go to a real honest-to-goodness Bike Shop and get some Tri-Flow, White Lightning, Syn Lube, or something GOOD.
BTW, even with bad lube, I have never seen a maintained chain rust unless the bike is left outside. If you leave your bike outside, you deserve a rusty chain, broken cables, squealing brakes, and a clicking sound that never goes away!
2007-09-20 02:10:57 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
I agree to a point with the folks who suggested White Lightning. Especially during winter or rainy seasons, it protects the chain very well. If you're going to use it, though, be sure you're willing to clean the chain and re-apply it before almost every ride. It doesn't last very long.
My personal favorite is ProLink. I use it in all kinds of weather (which can get pretty extreme here in upstate New York) and have never found another lube that penetrates the links as well and lasts as long.
2007-09-20 03:39:04 · answer #6 · answered by flexiblewill 3 · 1⤊ 2⤋
If your climate is wet, Go for wet wax or oil. You will need to clean your chain with a degreaser and a stiff brush. After this, give it a good going over with a handful of baby wipes. When clean and dry, apply wet wax.
Check every week, or after every ride if in muddy conditions. You might also want to check your chain length as well. (12 links = 1')
Luck
2007-09-19 22:53:42 · answer #7 · answered by Alice S 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there are chains that dont rust, buy them
2007-09-19 23:38:50 · answer #8 · answered by jp 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋