Chain cleaning

[EvilBetty]

How are you cleaning the chain with WD-40 and ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid, right?)

Are you scrubbing the chain with a brush or just hosing it off?

[Dr. Mordo]

I usually just hose it off.  I did use a brush once after some heavy dirt riding.

[JetdocX]

ATF is self cleaning.  I put it on and ride.

I may really soak it once a month and run a rag over it to pick up the really sloppy stuff.

[HappyMan]

Do you use the ATF for cleaning only or is it a lubricant as well?

[Mustang]

Do you use the ATF for cleaning only or is it a lubricant as well?

a lot of folks will use ATF as chain lube when using a chain oiler like a scott oiler etc .

[JetdocX]

Do you use the ATF for cleaning only or is it a lubricant as well?

Put a drop on your finger.  Now use your thumb to smear it around.  Slippery, isn't it?

[Dr. Mordo]

One of the points I've heard people make is that an o-ring chain doesn't require lube.  It has grease locked inside the o-rings that acts as the chain's lube.  What the chain does need, however, is occasional cleaning to keep dirt from penetrating the o-rings.  Some people use kerosene with a brush to clean, and then go over it with a light lube just to keep the o-rings from drying out.

So ATF and WD are just light solvents that also leave a thin film of lube.

Now, if you are using a non o-ring chain (do they even make one big enought o fit a Tiger?), you need to lube thoroughly and often.  I've actually thought about trying one on my F650 just to see what happens.

[Stretch]

You still need to lube o-ring chains to lubricate the sprockets and chain rollers.