Bike chains that are badly rusted should be completely replaced for the good of the bike. Defects in severely corroded chains can damage other parts of the bike's drivetrain. If the rust is only on the surface of the chain, lime juice or WD-40 is great for restoring shine and condition to the chain. Once the bike chain is clean, all you have to do is re-attach and lubricate it before the bike is ready to ride.
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Part 1 of 3: Checking the Chain
Step 1. Flip the bike over or mount it on a bike rack
Usually, the kickstand is not stable enough to keep the bike upright while removing rust. Instead, hang the bike on a rack or flip it over so that it rests firmly on the seat and handlebars.
- If you have a nice bike, it's a good idea to spread out a tarp as a base so it doesn't scratch the paint.
- Bike racks are quite easy to make using used items. Build a stable frame with hooks and hang the bike on the wheels.
- Hang the bike on its rack or turn it upside down for easy access to the chain during cleaning.
Step 2. Evaluate the condition of the chain
Observe the chain carefully. If you notice any bends or defects in the metal of the bike, or similar damage, we recommend buying a new bicycle chain. Rust, deposits and scale on the surface can be removed so that the chain functions like new.
- To ensure the best service life and function of a bicycle chain, a person who cycles regularly should clean the chain once a week or approximately every 321 km.
- Keep the chain clean and lubricated to keep the chain and drivetrain in good condition. It also helps you find damage faster. Immediately replace the bad link to prevent further damage.
Step 3. Look for a chain master link, if possible
Many modern chains are equipped with link links. This joint is a special eye on the chain so it is easier to remove. Look for links that have special pins/slit joints, where the pins of one link fit snugly into the gaps in the joints.
- Many types of single bikes will not have link links. If the link is not clearly visible, chances are the bike doesn't have one.
- If you have a chain without a link, we recommend taking it to a bicycle repair shop to have it installed. Usually you are only charged a tariff of IDR 250,000.
Step 4. Take a photo of the drivetrain for easy reassembly
It is important to put the bicycle chain back on the drivetrain properly. To make the chain easy to install, take several photos of the chain, gears, and sprockets from various angles before removing the chain.
- Bicycles with multiple gears often have wheels equipped with complex gear shifting mechanisms. If so, make sure the photos really depict how the chains are attached to these components.
- If the chain is not properly attached to the drivetrain, the bike can be seriously damaged, injurious to you, or completely malfunctioning.
Part 2 of 3: Cleaning Rusty Surfaces
Step 1. Remove the chain if the surface is badly rusted
If the chain has link links, slide the pins out of the gaps they were in. When the chain is open, pull it off. For chains that do not have link links, you will need to remove the link of one of the gear teeth. After the first link, the rest should come off easily, then pull the chain out of the drivetrain.
- It is especially important to remove the chain if you are cleaning a chain that has heavily rusted and dirty surfaces. Chains with mild rust and dirt can often be cleaned without needing to be removed.
- The chain without the link links is reattached to the drivetrain in the same way as it was when removed, only the order is reversed.
Step 2. Wipe the chain through a damp washcloth using a degreaser
Moisten a clean cloth with a degreaser. Pull the chain through the rag to remove any deposits and grease. Stubborn deposits need to be scrubbed or rubbed vigorously.
Step 3. Soak the chain with heavy sediment and oil in a degreaser for 20 minutes
For severe deposits, you may need to soak the chain in a degreaser. Fill the bottle with degreaser, soak the chain in it for 20 minutes, then rinse the chain in a second bottle of hot water.
Most degreasers are quite harsh when they touch the skin. Wear latex gloves when using the degreaser unless otherwise stated on the product label
Step 4. Scrub lightly rust with wet steel wool and lime/lime juice
This rust removal technique is hard on the hands so wear gloves before working. Next, wet the steel wool completely with the lime juice. Scrub the rusty area with a steel cloth to remove the rust, then wipe the surface clean with a paper towel.
- The rust that is neutralized and rubbed will fill the steel wool with oil. If so, rinse with hot water, re-wet with lime juice, and continue scrubbing.
- When scrubbing a lot of rust, you may need to periodically scrub the surface to see how much rust remains on the surface.
Step 5. Rinse the lime juice with soapy water after removing the rust
Lime juice contains a fair amount of sugar so it is best not to allow it to dry out and settle in chains. Rinse the chain with warm or hot water mixed with dish soap.
Step 6. Solve stubborn rust with WD-40 and a wire brush
Spray WD-40 directly on clean and rusted surfaces of the chain by section. Let stand for a few moments so that the solution can be absorbed. After that, take a wire brush and scrub the rust clean.
- Wipe the chain with a damp cloth as necessary to remove any residual rust. When the rust is gone, you can re-install and/or lubricate the chain.
- WD-40 should never be used to lubricate bicycle chains. We recommend that you use a special lubricant for bicycles.
Part 3 of 3: Replacing the Chain
Step 1. Put the chain back on the drivetrain
This process will depend on the type of bike and chain you have. The previously photographed drivetrain images will help you. Insert one end of the chain through the drivetrain so that it meets the top and bottom ends of the midpoint between the wheels.
- The links must fit snugly against the gear ends and run smoothly through all parts of the drivetrain component. If you feel resistance, the chain may not be inserted properly.
- If you're having trouble reattaching the chain to the drivetrain, look for tutorials on YouTube or search an internet search engine for instructions on how to use your bike.
Step 2. Retighten the chain link
Use your fingers to connect the ends of the chain to the midpoint between the wheels. Slide the end of the link pin into the gap of the other end of the link. Usually, you will feel a click when the link fits snugly.
If tightened properly, the link joints will align evenly with the other links. If they are not installed evenly, the chain may bend and break
Step 3. Check the chain movement
While the link links are connected, try riding a bicycle. The chain should pass through the drivetrain smoothly. If there is any resistance or strange noise from the chain (such as squeaking, scraping, or grinding), it is likely that the chain is not seated properly.
Many minor faults can be corrected with just a finger while the chain is still attached to the bike. In some cases, you will need to completely remove the chain and reinstall from scratch
Step 4. Lubricate the chain
A quality lubricant will protect the chain from rust and oil deposits. Aim the grease nozzle over the center point of the chain. While squeezing the lubricant in a thin, constant flow, rotate the bicycle wheel. When it returns to its original position, the chain is lubricated and ready to ride.
