Can gasoline damage bicycle gears and metal?

Question

i used gasoline to clean my bike cuz it immediately broke through all the guck, now im wondering if the gasoline could be bad for my gears and chain.

Answer 1

No, it won't have any negative effect on just the metal itself...most metals are pretty immune to gasoline ;)

What you do need to be concerned about in the future is if you just pour solvent over the gears, it can seep between the chain rings and get into the hub, thus rinsing out the lubrication of the ball bearings whether you have a free wheel, or cassette. This spells destruction for your wheel, but it is fixable by a skilled mechanic.

You'll know this happened if when you ride, it feels considerably harder and like your wheel is grinding on itself.

The other important thing you must know is after you've gotten all the gunk off, absolutely make sure you lubricate your chain again using a high viscosity oil, such as GT85 or something similar.

Answer 2

In a pinch I use it sometimes to clean my chain and cassette, but not while on the bike.  If you get a strong solvent into your bearings (wheel bearings, freehub, or bottom bracket, headset) it will dissolve the grease in your bearings, even if they are sealed bearings.

There are better solvents to use that are more environmentally friendly than gasoline.

Also, remember to re-lube your moving parts after you degrease.

Answer 3

it is a strong solvent, horrible for any plastic or rubber parts, such as on the derailleur or brakes, and for whatever it contacts on the ground, including the ground.

but fine for the metal.

what do you think a car's gas tank is made out of?

Answer 4

Gasoline won't harm the metal parts on your bike, unless!!! The stuff is inflammable and nearly explosive. All that is required to ignite the stuff is a tiny spark from static or a little friction between two metal parts that you just removed all the oil (guck) from to keep them apart.  Do not ever use gasoline to clean anything. It's extremely dangerous, not just to you, but to anyone within shouting distance of you and those that will be called to put out after you are immolated.  

Answer 5

using gas will leave things extremely dry. will need to re lube everything. you will need to check seals as well. consider a more appropriate degreaser next time..

Answer 6

gasoline is bad to use. use a light weight oil that is not prone to picking up dust