Cleaning A Cold Wax Lubed Bicycle Chain A Step-by-Step Guide
Hey guys! So, you've made the leap to cold wax lubing for your chain, huh? Awesome choice! Cold wax is a fantastic option for keeping your chain clean and smooth, but let's be real, cleaning a waxed chain can feel a bit different than dealing with traditional oil-based lubes. You might be thinking, "How do I even tackle this?" Don't sweat it! I'm here to walk you through the process step-by-step, making it super easy and maybe even a little fun.
Understanding Cold Wax Lubricants
Before we jump into the cleaning process, let's quickly touch on what cold wax lubricants actually are. Unlike hot melt waxes that require you to immerse your chain in molten wax, cold wax lubes are applied at room temperature. They're typically a blend of wax emulsions and other additives designed to penetrate the chain and provide a low-friction coating.
The main advantage of using cold wax is its convenience and ease of application. You can apply it directly to the chain without any special equipment or heating. Plus, cold wax lubes tend to attract less dirt and grime compared to traditional oil-based lubricants, which translates to a cleaner drivetrain and smoother shifting. That said, even with cold wax, your chain will eventually need a good cleaning to maintain optimal performance. The beauty of using wax is that the cleaning process is quite simple, and we're going to dive into that right now!
What You'll Need to Clean Your Cold Waxed Chain
Alright, let's gather our supplies! Cleaning a cold waxed chain is a pretty straightforward process, and you likely have most of the necessary items already lying around. Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need:
- Chain Cleaning Tool or Brush: A dedicated chain cleaning tool can make the job easier, but a stiff-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush or a parts cleaning brush) works just as well.
- Degreaser or Citrus Cleaner: A good degreaser is essential for breaking down the wax and grime. You can use a dedicated bicycle degreaser or a citrus-based cleaner, which is an environmentally friendly option.
- Two Buckets or Containers: One for washing and one for rinsing. This will help keep the cleaning process more efficient.
- Clean Rags or Shop Towels: You'll need these to wipe down the chain after washing and rinsing.
- Gloves (Optional): If you don't want to get your hands dirty, gloves are a great idea.
- Chain Quick Link Pliers (Optional but Recommended): If your chain has a quick link (also known as a master link), these pliers will make removal and installation much easier.
With these items in hand, you'll be well-equipped to tackle your chain cleaning task. Now, let's get to the nitty-gritty of the cleaning process!
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Cold Waxed Chain
Okay, let's get that chain sparkling clean! Follow these simple steps, and your chain will be running smoothly in no time.
Step 1: Remove the Chain (Recommended)
While you can clean your chain while it's still on the bike, removing it makes the process much easier and more thorough. If your chain has a quick link, use the quick link pliers to open it and remove the chain. If you don't have a quick link, you'll need a chain tool to push out a pin. However, for the sake of simplicity and future maintenance, I highly recommend investing in a quick link. It makes life so much easier!
If you choose to leave the chain on the bike, you'll need to be extra careful to avoid getting degreaser on other parts, like your frame and brakes. You can use rags or towels to protect these areas.
Step 2: Degrease the Chain
Now, it's time to break down the old wax and grime. Pour some degreaser or citrus cleaner into your wash bucket. If you've removed the chain, submerge it in the degreaser and let it soak for a few minutes. This will help loosen the gunk. If you're cleaning the chain on the bike, apply the degreaser liberally using a brush or chain cleaning tool.
For a chain cleaning tool, follow the instructions that came with your tool. These tools usually have brushes that scrub the chain as you pedal backwards. For a brush, scrub the chain thoroughly, paying attention to the rollers and side plates where dirt tends to accumulate.
Step 3: Scrub-a-dub-dub
Whether you've soaked the chain or applied degreaser directly, now's the time for some serious scrubbing. If the chain is off the bike, you can use your brush to scrub it while it's submerged in the degreaser. If it's on the bike, continue scrubbing with your brush or chain cleaning tool.
Make sure you get into all the nooks and crannies. Rotate the chain and scrub from different angles to ensure you're removing all the dirt and old wax. You might be surprised at how much grime comes off, even with wax lubes!
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Once you've scrubbed the chain, it's crucial to rinse it thoroughly to remove all traces of degreaser. This is where your rinse bucket comes in handy. If the chain is off the bike, transfer it to the rinse bucket filled with clean water and swish it around. You can also use a hose to rinse the chain, making sure to get water into all the links.
If the chain is still on the bike, use a hose or a wet rag to rinse it, being careful not to spray water directly into your bearings. It's essential to remove all degreaser residue, as it can interfere with the new wax application and degrade its performance.
Step 5: Dry the Chain
After rinsing, it's essential to dry the chain completely before applying new wax. Wax doesn't adhere well to wet surfaces, so this step is crucial for optimal lubrication.
If you've removed the chain, you can use a clean rag or shop towel to wipe it down. You can also let it air dry for a while. For a faster drying process, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting or compressed air to blow out any remaining water.
If the chain is still on the bike, wipe it down thoroughly with a clean rag, paying attention to the rollers and links. Make sure it's completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 6: Re-lube with Cold Wax
Now for the best part – re-lubing your chain with fresh cold wax! Follow the instructions on your specific wax lubricant, as application methods can vary slightly. Generally, you'll want to apply the wax to the inside of the chain, allowing it to penetrate the rollers and links.
Apply a thin, even coat of wax, and then rotate the chain backwards to distribute it. Wipe off any excess wax with a clean rag. You want the chain to be lubricated, not saturated. Less is more when it comes to wax lubes. It's better to apply a thin coat and reapply more frequently than to over-lube the chain.
Step 7: Reinstall the Chain (If Removed)
If you removed the chain for cleaning, now's the time to put it back on. If you have a quick link, simply connect the two ends of the chain with the quick link and use the quick link pliers to snap it into place. If you don't have a quick link, you'll need to use your chain tool to reconnect the chain.
Make sure the chain is properly routed through your derailleur and around your cassette and chainrings. Once the chain is reinstalled, give your drivetrain a quick spin and check for any issues. If everything looks good, you're ready to ride!
Tips for Maintaining Your Cold Waxed Chain
Now that you've got a sparkling clean and freshly waxed chain, let's talk about maintaining it. Consistent maintenance will keep your drivetrain running smoothly and extend the life of your chain. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Reapply Wax Regularly: Cold wax lubes need to be reapplied more frequently than traditional oil-based lubes. How often you need to reapply will depend on your riding conditions and mileage, but a good rule of thumb is to reapply every 100-200 miles, or whenever the chain starts to sound dry.
- Wipe Down Your Chain After Rides: After each ride, especially in wet or dirty conditions, wipe down your chain with a clean rag. This will remove any surface dirt and grime before it has a chance to penetrate the wax.
- Deep Clean as Needed: Even with regular maintenance, your chain will eventually need a deep clean. Follow the steps outlined above whenever you notice excessive dirt buildup or if your shifting starts to feel sluggish.
- Listen to Your Chain: Your chain will often tell you when it needs attention. If it starts to sound dry or noisy, it's time to reapply wax. If your shifting becomes rough or inconsistent, it's time for a cleaning.
Troubleshooting Common Cold Wax Chain Issues
Even with the best maintenance, you might encounter a few issues with your cold waxed chain. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
- Chain Squeaking or Noisy: This is usually a sign that your chain needs more wax. Reapply a thin coat of wax and see if that solves the problem.
- Rough Shifting: Rough shifting can be caused by a dirty chain, worn chain, or insufficient lubrication. Start by cleaning and re-lubing your chain. If the problem persists, your chain might be worn and need to be replaced.
- Wax Flaking Off: Some wax flaking is normal, especially when the wax is new. However, excessive flaking can indicate that you're applying too much wax or that the wax isn't adhering properly. Try applying a thinner coat of wax and make sure your chain is completely dry before application.
- Chain Attracting More Dirt Than Usual: Cold wax lubes are known for their cleanliness, so if your chain is attracting a lot of dirt, it could be a sign that you're riding in exceptionally dirty conditions or that your chain isn't properly waxed. Try cleaning and re-lubing your chain more frequently.
Conclusion
Cleaning a chain lubed with cold wax might seem daunting at first, but with this guide, you'll be a pro in no time! Remember, the key is to be consistent with your maintenance. Regular cleaning and re-lubing will keep your drivetrain running smoothly, extend the life of your components, and make your rides more enjoyable. So, grab your supplies, follow the steps, and get ready to experience the benefits of a clean and efficient cold waxed chain. Happy riding!