How to lubricate a chain?

Question

I need to lubricate my bike chain very soon, I need to know what kinda of stuff i should use on it and whats the best and also how to do it too?

Answer 1

clean motor oil works fine, just make sure its not dripping from it or u'll be covered in it.

Answer 2

thats disgusting!

Answer 3

For over 30 years I have been using the heavy duty Chain Lube sold by Justice Brothers, Inc. of Duarte, CA 91010. It is by far the best lube I have ever used.

Part Number Part No. HDCL/19

http://justicebrothers.com/pages/product...

Answer 4

any kind of oil will do

Answer 5

There are many different opinions on how to lubricate a chain. At times, the subject can almost start a religious war among dedicated cyclists. Whenever you have a question like this, it's a good idea to consult the late, great Sheldon Brown: http://sheldonbrown.com/chains.html

Personally, I've switched to Boeshield as my chain lube and I'm happy with it.

HTH

Answer 6

Ditto the sheldon referrals;

Solvents, gasoline, kerosene, besides toxicity flush out the lube in the links and may or may not clean out the crude.

Most of the crud is hopefully on the outer parts and surface of the chain.

Use of any oil or grease attracts and holds more crud.  Chain lubes are supposed to minimize attracting and accumulating dirt dust and particles on the chain.  And in addition to lubricating reduce the abrasive wear of that nasty black gummy stuff.

So that's how not to do it wrong.  Check sheldon and others on THE RIGHT WAY -- according to ?!!??!

Answer 7

The first step is to clean the chain.

This link while using park tools gives a good over view of how to do it.

http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto...

You don't need the fancy chain cleaning scrubber, but I would get a good brush to get the crud off.

Now before you get all grungy read this:

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/chains.html

Answer 8

Clean/degrease the chain first and then use a good bike chain lubricant.

White Lightning is a good brand that goes on "dry", doesn't attract dirt much and yet stands up to wet. "Purple Extreme" is reputed to be excellent long lasting lube.

See the links for details re checking, cleaning and lubricating chains.

Answer 9

just replace your chain

Answer 10

First, clean your dirty chain.  Use an old T-shirt with solvent (gasoline or whatever you want and while your bike is upside down, hold the rag around the chain, while cranking the pedals with your hand.  Run the chain, through the rag until it is free of road grime.  Hose it off.  Now you have no lube.  Re-lube it with a clean rag and new lube.  Use whatever  brand your bike shop recommends.  Do not use grease or WD-40 on your chain!  While upside down, make sure all your gears switch smothly and your brakes engage as they should.

Answer 11

http://sheldonbrown.com/chains.html#lube