Waxing a bike chain brings so many benefits to a bike. From keeping it clean and lubricated to reducing wear and tear on the chain itself, the wax can put your bike in excellent condition by taking care of the chain.
But how to wax a bike chain? This article will provide a step-by-step process for waxing your bike chain, along with some helpful tips and tricks along the way.
Contents
How to Wax a Bike Chain – Step by Step
Step 1: Cleaning the Chain
Before you can wax the chain, you must clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or old lubricant on the chain. There are several ways to clean your chain, including using a chain-cleaning tool or wiping it down with a rag and degreaser.
When cleaning the chain, the first thing to do is fill a bucket with warm water and add some dish soap or a bike-specific degreaser. Then, remove the chain from your bike and place it in the bucket.
Then, you can use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the chain thoroughly, paying special attention to the areas between the links and the cassette or chainring. Lastly, rinse the chain thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely. Proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
Once your chain is clean and dry, the next step is to melt the wax. Several types of wax can be used for this purpose, including paraffin wax, beeswax, and specialty bike chain wax.
To melt the wax, fill a small saucepan or slow cooker with the wax and turn the heat on low. Stir the wax occasionally until it melts completely and becomes liquid. You can add oil or other lubricants to the wax to help it penetrate the chain more deeply.
Step 3: Dip the Chain in the Wax
Now that your wax is melted and ready to go, it is time to dip your chain in the wax. To start, use a pair of tongs or pliers and carefully lower the chain into the wax to ensure it is fully submerged.
Leave the chain in the wax for several minutes, occasionally stirring to ensure that all parts of the chain are coated. Once the chain is fully coated, use tongs or pliers to remove it from the wax and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 4: Remove the Excess Wax
The next step is to learn how to clean a waxed bike chain. Once your chain has cooled a bit, the next step is to remove any excess wax that is maybe on the chain. You can use a rag or paper towel to wipe away any excess wax from the surface of the chain.
Then, you can use a cleaner tool or rag soaked in a degreaser to remove any excess wax that may be in the crevices or any other parts of the chain.
Step 5: Installing the Chain Back on the Bike
Now that your chain is clean, lubricated, and ready to go, installing it back on your bike is time. Start by carefully threading your chain back onto your bike, making sure that it is correctly aligned with your cassette or chain ring.
It used a chain tool to connect the ends of the chain together, ensuring it was not too tight or loose. Use a rag to wipe away any excess lubricant that may be on the chain or other parts of the bike.
Step 6: Enjoy your Smooth and Quiet ride
Now that your chain is waxed and properly installed on your bike, you can enjoy a smoother, quieter, and more efficient ride. Your chain will stay clean and lubricated for longer periods, which means less maintenance for you in the long run.
Tips and Tricks for Waxing your Bike Chain
You can use a slow cooker or dedicated wax melting pot to melt the wax instead of a saucepan. Also, you can add a small amount of solvent, such as mineral spirits or acetone, to the wax to help it penetrate the chain more effectively.
In addition, make sure to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when melting the wax, as it can be hot and produce fumes. Waxing your chain in batches is a good idea, as doing the entire chain at once can be time-consuming.
Then, you can reuse the wax several times before it needs to be replaced, so be sure to store it in a container for future use.
Conclusion
Waxing your bike chain is a great way to keep your bike running smoothly and efficiently and can help reduce wear and tear on your chain over time. By following these simple steps and tips in learning how to wax a bike chain properly, you can now wax your bike like a pro and enjoy a smoother, quieter ride for years to come.