How To Remove Rust from A Bike Chain? Easy Steps
How to remove rust from a bike chain? We’re here to help you in removing rust on your bike chain, so you can enjoy riding your bike without any difficulty. Let’s start.
Whether you’re a serious cyclist or a casual rider, you’ll have to deal with rust. The bike chain, in particular, is prone to corrosion.
Exposure to moisture, air, and dirt speeds up the rusting process. A rust problem should be dealt with as soon as possible because the longer rust remains on the bike chain, the more difficult it is to remove.
On the other hand, rust does not have to be a problem. This article discusses how to use a professional degreaser or simple home materials on “how to remove rust from a bike chain?”
Should I Clean My Rusty Bike Chain or Replace It?
The first thing you should do is examine the condition of the bike chain. You may need to replace the chain if it is worn out.
Turn the bicycle upside down to get a good look at the bike chain. To avoid scratches, lay an old blanket or towel on the ground and flip the bike on its seat and handlebars. Take a peek at the chain after that. If the chain exhibits bending, defects, or degeneration, it should be replaced.
The chain is incomplete without pins and seals. If the pins and seals are rusted, the bike chain is no longer reinforced and must be replaced.
Next, look at the chain length. As the bike’s chain wears out, it becomes longer. This is known as chain stretch, and it indicates that the chain needs to be replaced. To perform this, you’ll need a chain checking tool or a ruler.
You’ll need a chain checker gauge, sometimes known as a go/no-go chain gauge. The go/no-go gauge is noted for its relative ease of use for monitoring the chain.
These products can be found on Amazon and in bike shops. The pricing is fair; you can acquire one for less than ten dollars.
If you want to use a ruler, line it up with the chain at the pin’s center and measure. Measure the chain at the 12-inch point.
Bicycle chains are normally half an inch broad from pin to pin. At the 12-inch marking point, it should be no more than a half-inch off. If it’s more than that, it’s time to get a new bike chain.
There are a few basic procedures for removing rust from a chain that is still working.
Related: How to Fix a Bike Chain: Simple & Easy Steps
How to Remove Rust from a Bike Chain
To remove rust from a bike chain, you’ll need a degreaser. You can use a commercial or homemade degreaser. Degreasers such as vinegar or soda pop are widely used by do-it-yourselfers.
Using a Degreaser
If you’re using a commercial degreaser, follow the instructions on the label. If you’re using a DIY degreaser, pour the solution into an empty spray container.
While rotating the pedals on the bike, spray the degreaser onto the bike chain with one hand. Make at least two complete spins on the bike pedal to ensure that it is wet with the degreaser.
Allow 10 minutes for the degreaser to sit on the chain. Examine how simple it is to remove the rust. If required, soak it for an additional 10 minutes.
Scrub the Chain
Fold a sheet of aluminum foil in half with the shiny side facing out. Simply soak the aluminum foil in the soda pop or vinegar solution and rub it onto the bike chain.
This method may involve a little more elbow grease and effort than using a commercial cleaner to remove the rust, depending on the amount of rust on the bike chain.
Rinse and Dry Your Chain
After removing the rust, rinse the bike chain with warm, soapy water. As a result, any remaining residue will be eliminated from the chain.
Rinse the bike chain well with clear water, ensuring that all soap and extra degreaser are removed. The chain should then be thoroughly dry to prevent rust from forming again.
Apply Lubrication
Apply chain lubricant according to the package instructions after cleaning and drying the chain. This not only lubricates the chain but also protects it from rust.
There are numerous lubricant brands available on the market. Using a dry, clean cloth, wipe off any excess lubrication that remains on the chain, regardless of the brand. Any excess oil will attract dirt, which will cause it to rust.
Also Read: How to Tighten Bike Chain – Step-by-Step Guide
Conclusion
How to remove rust from a bike chain? I assume you have gotten the answer to your question.
Using a professional degreaser or making your own with vinegar or soda pop are the easiest ways to remove rust from your bike chain. Both methods are effective, although the do-it-yourself option will take a little more time and effort on your part, depending on how much rust is on the bike chain.
If your bike chain has become overly rusty, it may be time to replace it.
