When using non-standard chains, these details should not be overlooked. Non-standard chain manufacturers tell you that the chain can be cleaned without dissembling it, or the chain can be removed for thorough cleaning. Thorough cleaning involves soaking the chain in a cleaning agent (gasoline or kerosene) for period of time, then brushing each section with a bristle brush. Non-standard chain manufacturers tell you to immerse the chain in 70-80 Celsius lubricating oil after cleaning, so that it is fully lubricated before installation and use. If the friction surface of the chain turns brown or dark brown during, it is usually due to insufficient oil supply, and lubricating oil should be added in time. The quality of chain lubrication will directly affect the service life the chain.
After lubrication, wipe off the excess oil with a dry cloth. When cleaning and lubricating the chain, the engine must be turned first. Otherwise, there is a risk of fingers being caught in the sprocket, causing unnecessary injuries. Moreover, when installing the chain, it should have appropriate initial sag on the slack side. The initial sag is about 1% to 2% of the distance between the centers of the sprockets Also, ensure that the front and rear wheel axles and the rear suspension axle are in a straight line, which is the theoretical maximum length of the chain. adjusting the chain, it should meet the normal tension when the three axles are in a straight line. If the chain is too tight, it will lead to transmission, increased power consumption, accelerated wear of the chain and sprocket, and is also prone to breakage, which could cause accidents. If the chain too loose, it will make abnormal noise and vibrate more during operation, and there is a risk of the chain falling off.
The chain should be lubricated with special chain oil or No. 30 and No. 40 mechanical oil, or SAE0 gear oil can be used as a substitute. It is necessary to use oil with a higher viscosity; if the viscosity is too low, the lubricating oil splash onto various parts of the vehicle during driving, affecting the appearance of the vehicle, dirtying the rider's pants, and the lubrication effect will also be. When replacing a new chain, note that there are two types of packaging for the chain at the time of factory release: one is wax-sealed, and other is pre-lubricated. Pre-lubrication means that the chain has been immersed in lubricating oil before leaving the factory.
The above two processes are mainly for rust prevention and easy storage. The latter can be directly installed and used after opening the package, while the should first remove the wax and clean it with diesel before re-oiling. When lubricating, not only should the oil be applied to the surface of the chain but it should also penetrate into the gaps between the pivot and the inner and outer chain plates, so as to achieve the purpose of lubrication.