Will WD-40 Destroy Your Motorcycle Chain O-Rings? | MC GARAGE

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 ต.ค. 2024
  • Whether or not WD-40 will keep your chain’s O-rings happy or ruin them is one of the most controversial topics in motorcycle maintenance. Will WD-40 destroy your chain’s O-rings, displace the grease, and ruin your chain? To find out, Senior Road Test Editor Ari Henning donned his lab coat, marched down to the MC garage, and performed some compatibility experiments. Watch the video to see the results!
    --
    What’s the truth? To find out, Senior Road Test Editor Ari Henning donned his lab coat, marched down to the MC garage, and performed some compatibility experiments. Chain links were disassembled, test tubes organized, and O-rings subjected to full immersion in WD-40 (as well as other common shop chemicals) to find out if and how the contents of the ubiquitous yellow-and-blue effects the O-rings used on today’s sealed chains.
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ความคิดเห็น • 828

  • @ronh9384
    @ronh9384 2 ปีที่แล้ว +181

    I used WD-40 on a Yamaha R1 for 10 years and lubed the chain every 2-3weeks for 10-11 months of almost daily use during the 10 year period. Had zero, ZERO problems.

    • @iamAurel1us
      @iamAurel1us 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Great

    • @karankots
      @karankots 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks

    • @duongto1252
      @duongto1252 ปีที่แล้ว

      stupid

    • @awakenedservant
      @awakenedservant ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Should I wash my chain with water only or water and soap after cleaning it with wd40? Then I wipe the chain dry and use gear oil ? Is this okay for an X-ring chain ?

    • @govinda102000
      @govinda102000 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@awakenedservant I think not. I have seen a few videos where the chain is wiped after WD40 cleaning before adding the lub.

  • @WiserInTime
    @WiserInTime 8 ปีที่แล้ว +601

    Motorcycle myth bustin'
    I like it.

    • @MozzaBurger88
      @MozzaBurger88 8 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      +Wiser InTime Using actual facts and proper testing ??? Damn that's not the USA I'm used to :D

    • @mtmgymtmgy
      @mtmgymtmgy 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      because your hurley doesn't have chain but a belt. no need to test the o-rings

    • @fixx9839
      @fixx9839 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      tf 360 like

  • @elishakimadelacruz6858
    @elishakimadelacruz6858 2 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    It’s almost the end of 2021, and I’m 19, experimenting my bike… And this video, even after 5 years, still helps kids like me

  • @ricecakeFTW
    @ricecakeFTW 8 ปีที่แล้ว +131

    WOW! Science to back up the claim! Thank you!

  • @bryanmurphy26
    @bryanmurphy26 7 ปีที่แล้ว +522

    I've been using WD40 to clean the chain on my 2004 DR650 since the bike was new. The original chain is still good with 8,500 miles on it. All O-rings were intact. How's that for a long-term test.

    • @TheSateef
      @TheSateef 7 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      are you lubing it too, or WD40 only?

    • @rodolfocastillo9023
      @rodolfocastillo9023 7 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      I think he's just using it for cleaning. As the video says, it's perfect for cleaning but they recommend you to use a proper lube.

    • @Acdeportivo2
      @Acdeportivo2 6 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Bryan Miata i say your full of shit.

    • @SurferNick327
      @SurferNick327 6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Well on your DR it's fine. Suzuki recommends using kerosene to clean your chain on any of their products.

    • @overthinking3573
      @overthinking3573 6 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Nick Linville did you watch the video at all? wd40 is essentially kerosene with other stuff added.

  • @DEeMONsworld
    @DEeMONsworld 8 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    There is another test I saw on a forum about this subject, the tester went one step further using various solvents, o-rings in test tubes, for varying lengths of time. Then he checked for not only swelling and distortion, but elasticity using gauges to stretch to failure. WD 40 came out second only to kerosene but not by much. Upshot is WD40 does not harm or compromise your orings. It has no magic ability to penetrate behind compressed O-rings any more than Kerosene.
    That said it is a cleaner not a lubricant, perfectly safe for short term cleaning of chains.

  • @TheMickvee
    @TheMickvee 7 ปีที่แล้ว +140

    After 40 odd years of riding and maintaining bikes, here is my tried and tested method. Clean the chain with paraffin (kerosene), using an old towel. Then, also using an old towel, pour about a quarter of a pint of gear oil into the palm of your hand, and wrap the oily towel around the bottom run of the chain, whilst slowly rotating the wheel by hand. Remember, this oil is solely there to stop the chain from going rusty. The lube is already inside the chain. Wipe off any excess. Job done. Time taken? 5 minutes! I have had a chain last for 40,000 miles using this method, and there was still plenty of life left in it!

    • @H4FIZS
      @H4FIZS 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Wow great info! Thanks sir

    • @joske6458
      @joske6458 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      TheMickvee fully agree with

    • @oozi
      @oozi 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Repeat the process after 300 miles!

    • @TheMickvee
      @TheMickvee 7 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      No! Repeat when necessary! Of course, if you are on a long trip, then a can of chainlube would be essential.

    • @gsxrg46
      @gsxrg46 7 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      ^^^yep this is how to properly clean a chain. Kerosine to clean and run gear oil on it. Cheap and it works. My old Dr650 manual actually stated to clean and lubricate this exact way. I think it's been updated now to only use Suzuki brand cleaner etc lol

  • @clanmac66
    @clanmac66 8 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Phew! I've always been an advocate for WD-40, removing chain lub and muck off my rear wheel and swing arm as well as cleaning my chain. Love the stuff.

  • @mohannair
    @mohannair 8 ปีที่แล้ว +68

    Great work on these garage videos. been following you since the dreadlock days.

    • @AriH211
      @AriH211 8 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      +Lord Moughezi Thanks for sticking with us!

  • @ppower7945
    @ppower7945 2 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Been using it for years. It has the added effect of driving moisture out of the chain (which u want) after washing your bike. Always lube your chain AFTER washing the bike. I clean it lightly with a toothbrush and a little WD 40, then dry it with a rag, wait 10 mins to air dry, and apply 90 weight gear oil. Amazing results.

    • @Nichaansama
      @Nichaansama ปีที่แล้ว

      That's how ya do it.......oldschool nice and easy

    • @huyduongquang1438
      @huyduongquang1438 ปีที่แล้ว

      how do you stop the gear oil from splattering around the rims? My dad told me to do the same procedure as you do and the chain is nice and smooth but I had to clean the rims regularly

    • @ianh9696
      @ianh9696 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Apply the oil and wait a few minutes to let it soak in. Then wipe the chain with a rag to remove the excess so it doesn't fling everywhere.@@huyduongquang1438

  • @frustrateduser666
    @frustrateduser666 7 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    I really love these MC Garage videos. Sometimes all you need to start DIY repair and maintenance is a push in the right direction and some myth-busting :)

  • @davidmorton7861
    @davidmorton7861 5 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    I appreciate that you set a chain on fire 🔥 just to bring me more excellent content 👍

  • @RCFlyBoy314
    @RCFlyBoy314 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I came across info a few years ago when I first bought my CBR250R on cleaning the chain. I cleaned with simple green, sprayed out the water with WD-40 (wd= water displacement) and then lubed the chain with the Honda chain lube. Worked great!
    I rode 2000 miles a month, and cleaned every 500 miles or after riding through monsoons (started riding in the beginning of monsoon weather in AZ... :D ) Got tired of cleaning my chain, so going up to the 1200GS was super nice :)

  • @KillroyX99
    @KillroyX99 8 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    This is great.
    Me and my friends have had good results with WD-40 only and not other lube. The philosophy is that o-ring chains are already lubed inside the bushings and a clean chain is a long lasting chain.

    • @TheAdamAdy
      @TheAdamAdy 7 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Killroy Yes, but wd40 will destroy that lube that is inside and will dissipate. If you lubr your chain with wd40 youre basically riding on dry chain.

    • @hernandocortez6351
      @hernandocortez6351 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@TheAdamAdy That's my concern as well. Disappointed the video didn't address this.

    • @eriknash8783
      @eriknash8783 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I have a ride partner who never lubes his chain. Just cleans it with WD40 every tank full. He has done this on several bikes and gets 15-20K miles on a chain. I don’t follow this regimen but I can’t argue with his results and his maint time is much easier than mine.

    • @Boromir237866
      @Boromir237866 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@hernandocortez6351 like erik said, chain is already lubed. True it helps ease friction, but with that price, just change chain every 25000km and just use wd40 every month or so! Doing that in my second bike just for experimenting and getting same results probably cheaper because I don't use gear oil, the only cheap lube. If you use gear oil, probably worth taking a few more mins to lube your chain I guess.

    • @arunkrishna3311
      @arunkrishna3311 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Wd40 doesnot penetrate inside so factory grease is safe.

  • @ruthless705
    @ruthless705 8 ปีที่แล้ว +140

    Love these tech videos, keep em' coming! Can we get one for checking and adjusting valves?

    • @hostilityy
      @hostilityy 8 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      +Ruthless705 yeah that's very technical lol, Idk if they'll do those on this channel. I really want them to. I love this channel so much. has to do with removing timing chain and not allowing valves to hit the piston when you reassemble. the shim and bucket part is easy especially since modern manuals list what to put if your current shim is a certain thickness. I have to do mine this summer and I'm dreading it even if I've been a mechanic for 7 years and done all kinds of car, truck ,hydraulics, diesel, motorcycle jobs

    • @fkmehardy6186
      @fkmehardy6186 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm riding a 14 year old zx9r and have done the valves every 8k miles up to around 50k miles, as you say the job itself isn't too hard its the stripping everything off which takes the time, they stop tightening up on the nine around that figure though I still ckeck them every now n then for peice of mind, 75k up and counting now n still sweet as a nut.

    • @fkmehardy6186
      @fkmehardy6186 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      I always put them at the max spec too.

  • @IgorDz
    @IgorDz 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I feel like I would still watch this channel if I wasn't into motorcycles. So quick and on point videos. Even "howto's" are 4 minutes average, not like some other 30 min mumbling manuals.

  • @MrSmurfnanne
    @MrSmurfnanne ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you! Been saying all along that WD40 was more of a cleaner/solvent than lubricant. I always have used either kerosene or diesel and a tooth brush for chain cleaning. I just finished doing my chain and thought I'd spray some WD on to clean up any dirty diesel that may remain, but I never have done that. That's how I wound up here. Very good info, to be sure!

  • @mike216ism
    @mike216ism 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    It's not good enough. Some will still argue with this topic. Great informative video. Much appreciated

  • @Duderichy
    @Duderichy 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Just want to say Ari Henning seems to be an awesome guy, I love all his articles and videos, as someone who hasn't been riding motorcycles too long

  • @delsere7095
    @delsere7095 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Excellent topic choice. Its incredible how common of a thought this is, I told my shop that I was using kerosene to clean my o-ring chain and their reaction was on par with as if I left my 3 month old baby in the car on a summer day. I was convinced and bought some Motul chain cleaner, which I'm still quite happy with though its nice to know that I didn't compromise my drive train.

    • @MrSmurfnanne
      @MrSmurfnanne ปีที่แล้ว +1

      My old 1980 GS1100E's owner's manual recommended kerosene and a tooth brush for chain cleaning!

  • @theperson7718
    @theperson7718 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I have a D.I.D chain and it says right on the box to "NOT" use kerosene among other harsh chemicals. I think the problem isn't that kerosene will eat or soften the rubber but rather it can easily slip past the rubber and dissolve the grease the rubber seals help to protect.

    • @andrewwhitehead2353
      @andrewwhitehead2353 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      They used to say use kerosene.I wonder if DID have shares in a chain cleaner

  • @g4yktzgjx6
    @g4yktzgjx6 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This was exactly what I was looking for. And all in 3 minutes. Spot on

  • @d1sturb3d119
    @d1sturb3d119 8 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Great video! WD40 is great to displace moisture but horrible to keep the mechanism lubricated like you said. Used it on a door hinge on my car. Had to follow up with some graphite lube like my clutch cable uses on the bike to keep the lube sealed in. 6 months and no squeaks. Amazing how things work when you use it for it's intended purpose!

    • @kimw200blaze4
      @kimw200blaze4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      WD 40 is an degreaser. You don't use it to lubricate an motorcycle chain..

    • @d1sturb3d119
      @d1sturb3d119 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@kimw200blaze4 Absolutely! Love what it does for chain cleaning overall.

    • @kimw200blaze4
      @kimw200blaze4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@d1sturb3d119
      It's weird how people get confused and think it can be used as an chain lubricant. I agree it's absolutely excellent, and can even remove initial rust from an chain.

  • @sstressfl
    @sstressfl 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wow! Great to know about brake cleaner! I don't use it to clean my chain, but now I know to be careful when cleaning the rear brake/rotors. Thanks for this!

  • @serberious
    @serberious 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I`ve used WD40 on all of my bikes to clean the chain before lubing because, being a lubricant, it`ll get down between the plates where chain wax won`t really reach and I`ll have an extra lubed chain, great vid, man, keep them coming.

  • @hyperlingg7608
    @hyperlingg7608 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for the explanation. WD-40 is great for what it has been made for: cleaning and conserving. I use a very thin layer on chrome or metal parts for winter time when the bike stands still. No corrosion.

  • @erickpalacios8904
    @erickpalacios8904 7 ปีที่แล้ว +40

    I feel like my motorcycle IQ shoots up after watching these videos.

  • @pippipster6767
    @pippipster6767 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Just incredible, many thanks!
    I have been considering this - debating this - and discussing this for many many years and I have heard so many different opinions I'm just as confused as when I first thought about it 20 years ago.
    Not any more.
    Excellent.
    👍🤓

  • @donfrazer1686
    @donfrazer1686 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is the EXACT info I was looking for today to figure out which of my on-hand cans of chemicals I could safely use to clean my o-ring chain. THANK YOU!

  • @justinr8526
    @justinr8526 6 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I suspect this myth came about from people mistakenly thinking that WD40 is a lube rather than a solvent, and thus using it to clean their chain without lubing afterwards. Running a bare, unlubed chain causes friction and heat and can degrade your o-rings as well as the chain itself.
    WD40 is fine, but always use a proper chain lube after cleaning.

  • @Q.Q.
    @Q.Q. 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Well-done! Quite comprehensive. Far more so than I was (mistakenly) expecting.

  • @Im-a-machine
    @Im-a-machine 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Dude, you sure do a great job! Putting out a lot of helpful videos. Thank you very much!

  • @carswithsonduren
    @carswithsonduren 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great video thank you :) I love lubing everything with WD-40.... everything ;)

  • @eduardosilva7304
    @eduardosilva7304 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I had a thought about using wd40 to clean the chain before I did it, before applying the chain lube, and guess I was right. Thanks for the video, man, very clever idea of deeping the o-rings in wd40!

  • @rohanvimal2972
    @rohanvimal2972 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    nice.. simple.. useful.. important.. all in under 5 min. great work!! one of the very few you tubers to fare really well in this field!!

  • @nitinanand1000
    @nitinanand1000 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I do know stuff about chain maintenance. But just a quick tip to you guys, please copy a link of your video that you mentioned in the end for making it easy for others to go through it

  • @surg23
    @surg23 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've noticed using WD40 as lube makes the chain glide over the sprockets so much more easily than conventional lube. I've been using it on my enduro bike (now SM) for about 100 hours with no degradation of either chain or sprocket. It does wonders for fuel economy and cuts down the power loss through the drive-train.
    The only bad thing I've noticed so far is you have to apply it more regularly than normal lube as it just lacks the properties to cling to the chain.

  • @AxisDSTC
    @AxisDSTC 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    In aprox 3 min video, I proved all my friends wrong thanks to you. 3 months soaked o-rings definetly worked. Thank you!

  • @LiongkyTan
    @LiongkyTan 8 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I absolutely love WD-40. yes it's a very light lubricants that makes you have to spray your drive chain every other day.. but at the same time, IT'S DAMN CLEAN. it doesn't leave any sticky dirty residue that even splattered to the rear wheel like chain lube.. and WD40 is cheap..

  • @sammyscrap
    @sammyscrap 8 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Good science, great vid! Another measure would have been to weigh the o-rings for any absorption.

  • @bosenon5251
    @bosenon5251 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you Mc garage So we can use Wd40 for clean the chain 👌🏻

  • @mortenkristensen8650
    @mortenkristensen8650 7 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    This is from someone that does not know a lot about chains with o-rings, but do all chains have o-ring made in the same material? O-rings are made in many different materials like Silicone, Viton, plain rubber, Nitrile Rubber and when WD40 is applied to those you will not have the same result for all of them.

    • @davidlevy2884
      @davidlevy2884 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Most reputable MC companies have Nitrile Orings from the factory and any good replacement chain also uses them. If you bought some cheap Chinese chain well you might have bigger issues to worry about.

  • @AuMechanic
    @AuMechanic 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    The problem is not attacking the o-rings, the problem is its a solvent and you'll remove lube on them at the point they contact o-ring edge to metal that they had on them from assembly. A wire brush to knock off the sprocket crusties then use warm soapy water and brush to clean off the outer muck without taking any grease off, only the dirty film on top of it, rag for wipe and then add a decent lube.

  • @leeroymcevoy5362
    @leeroymcevoy5362 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this.. Been using WD-40 for years, and even though had some long life chains people kept telling me would ruin the O Rings although never saw it happen ..

  • @GodsHeretic
    @GodsHeretic 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    This channel gets better all the time! Keep up the great work!

  • @markiemarks1k
    @markiemarks1k 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    6 years later. This is still a great video.

  • @zeeosix
    @zeeosix 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've used WD-40 sprayed on a rag to clean the outside of my chain for years, then lube with a good chain lube. Spraying the WD-40 on a rag keeps from soaking the chain while cleaning. Works well and I've never had any chain o-ring failures.

  • @Bendc1970A1
    @Bendc1970A1 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've actually done this experiment before with same results. I also remember telling a guy he should not have used a pressure washer on his chain.

  • @alainbuerom8635
    @alainbuerom8635 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    thanks Bro! been using wd40 ever since both in cleaning and lubricating my chain. like it a lot because does not stick too much dirt on my chain, considering the fact on the road condition in our country

    • @laszlolanger5847
      @laszlolanger5847 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      what type of wd40 use for lubricating? cheers

  • @dimitris_koutsikos
    @dimitris_koutsikos 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Also, WD40 helps clean rim from chain lube, very easy! I use it on my anodised rim and no problem till now with the colour!!

  • @Kaspurr84
    @Kaspurr84 8 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    this is exactly what I've always told friends, it is NOT a primary lubricant, but if you want to use it to clean your chain, go right ahead, but I have way to many rider friends that think its enough of a "lubricant" to handle the demands of a chain. no sir.

    • @classikz
      @classikz 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +RevToTheRedline There is a guy on Riderforums.com that used WD40 exclusively on his OEM chain which lasted him 50k miles. He did mention that his intervals between lubricating with WD40 was around 100-200 miles.

    • @Kaspurr84
      @Kaspurr84 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      +shin888 I actually have been using crisco cooking oil for the last 11 years and never had a problem. I also change my engine oil every 30k miles and never had an issue either. it's all a scam to get you to buy expensive products and oils.

    • @ICEGTN
      @ICEGTN 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +RevToTheRedline I lube my chain with wd-40 about every 20 miles and it's doing very well. I lube the chain every time I get off the bike, it takes me only 10 seconds. I don't lube the entire chain, just the part that I can easily reach. I give the chain a good cleaning every 1000 miles.

    • @Kaspurr84
      @Kaspurr84 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Considering most of my rides are 400-700 miles in a single day, That would be highly inconvenient even with a 100-200 mile WD40 intervals. I use BelRay Super Clean every 600-1000 miles, haven't had a chain problem yet. Again this is just like the great engine oil debate, everyone has opinions, my previous above statement was my opinion, as is this video.

    • @elobiretv
      @elobiretv 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +Luca Fuoco If your needing to lubethe chain every 20 miles then your doing something wrong. DW40 is not a lubricant at all, its a water displacer. Somehow people think it's some magical do-it-all product.

  • @6Twisted
    @6Twisted 8 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I heard that the problem is WD40's low viscosity which allows it to get in between the o-rings and remove their lubricant which isn't replaced by chain lube. I'm not sure how true that is but I will only use thicker chain cleaners just in case.

    • @davec.3198
      @davec.3198 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Has this been proven?
      I have religously cleaned chains with wd40 and then lubed with a dry lube. My chains and sprockets last well past 30k miles.

  • @karabesklow
    @karabesklow 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks bro !no mechanic or motorcycle dudes did the submersion and wait to destroy the oring test which i was planning to do with mine so you saved me months of waiting :D
    i will go buy another can of WD 40 and clean then oil my chain at next interval !
    +1

  • @pvflyer67
    @pvflyer67 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    if you like motorcycles this is one if not the best series on TH-cam

  • @ORflycaster
    @ORflycaster 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Yesterday I cleaned my chain with WD-40 before lubing it again, and then today click on this video and hold my breath for two minutes. I can testify that it works great for cleaning a filthy chain with just paper towels and a toothbrush.

  • @grevierx
    @grevierx 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome video. Thanks for taking the time to make this much needed video

  • @kushairiroslei
    @kushairiroslei 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Such a relief. After 4 years been using it without any damage. 😎

  • @fijaker1
    @fijaker1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Kerosene to clean and gear oil to lubricate. You absolutely do not need more than this...
    In many manuals it stands quite clear "use gear oil 80w90 as lubricant"

    • @STho205
      @STho205 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Jinx Ban. Most chain cleaners are aerosol kerosene. Kerosene from a station pump is $1 a quart. Dupont chain cleaner is $5 a can = a pint. About 10 times the cost, but the convenience of the aerosol blast may be worth it.
      To be honest, you really just need to cut the dirty grease and wax off the surface. Dawn, a nylon brush, and a hose will do it. You can't regrease inside the link, as the o ring is holding that grease in for life.
      Gasoline is bad at seeping under the o ring and diluting the factory grease. Kerosene is just one step down the petroleum column, and diesel is the next step down. I think they can all seep, just as machine penetrating oil and WD40. So I tend to use soaps and kerosene about every fifth cleaning. I stick kerosene in a squirt bottle and wipe/wash immediately.

  • @GiovanniEsposito5
    @GiovanniEsposito5 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Finally a good scientific test about the eternal debate! Well done! It remains to prove if the WD40 penetrating power is enough to dissolve the grease inside the chain (protected by the o-rings)in the long term. .... and if any chain lube can replace the grease inside the chain.

  • @rhllnm
    @rhllnm 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the info. It sucks to be on a long, dusty trip and have a powder caked chain after a week or so. I've been carrying WD 40 mainly for tire lube, but also for chain cleaning, and Dupont Walmart chain lube.

  • @jay_321
    @jay_321 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Two Honda VFRs spanning 26 years and 100,000 miles and I use WD-40 and nothing else on the o-ring chains. I consistently get about 32,000 miles from a chain. RK put me onto WD-40 years ago. I wrote them and asked what to use and they said WD-40.

    • @TepcoCycleRepair
      @TepcoCycleRepair 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      This is real world testing, I do the same with my O-Ring chains with the same results, no additional lube just WD.

    • @burkeydaturkey
      @burkeydaturkey 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@TepcoCycleRepair So you use WD40 to clean the gunk off and then you don't lube the chain?!?

    • @burkeydaturkey
      @burkeydaturkey 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      You use WD40 to clean the gunk off and then you don't lube the chain?!?

    • @TepcoCycleRepair
      @TepcoCycleRepair 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@burkeydaturkey correct. I do it each time I ride, because of that I never have gunk to clean off. Chian lube builds up attracting dirt/sand (gunk) that causes wear. O-rings are lubed inside the O-Ring, spray on lube doesn't get there.

    • @TepcoCycleRepair
      @TepcoCycleRepair 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      And WD-40 is a lube, it says it right on the can. Because I do it every time, the light lube that WD is is enough.

  • @kevinmcgrath127
    @kevinmcgrath127 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great work...love this mythbustin! Put to bed an anxiety I’ve had over this with this for years.

  • @rivit7615
    @rivit7615 ปีที่แล้ว

    You're totally right that it won't hurt an oring BUT it will penetrate past the oring thining out the GREASE that's INSIDE. Now you havecan Oring chain that has had its internal lube thinned out and an oring that stops fresh grease from getting in.

  • @kings17court
    @kings17court 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    The test tubes, test tube rack, and lab coat was a nice touch.

  • @fatezero325
    @fatezero325 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Ari and Mc Garage. You guys are awesome.

  • @yishay83
    @yishay83 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    thanks guys . i really ask this question lots of times. each time i got diffrent answer . thanks for making it clear!

  • @motochain-mate413
    @motochain-mate413 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice video, try the Moto Chain-Mate next time you clean & lube the chain. It works fantastic, No Overspary!

  • @umbroraban1075
    @umbroraban1075 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have been using WD 40 for 5 years on the the chains of my two motorcycles. Both to lube and to clean. I started doing this because I was sick and tired of the gunge and dirt from the mean stream chain lubes. On my MT01 I have clocked over 30000 km and the chain is still shining. Moreover I have tested each individual link and all is fine! Every 250km I clean it with WD 40 and that is it! Only takes 5 minutes.

    • @laszlolanger5847
      @laszlolanger5847 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      what type of wd40 did you use to lubricate ? I have a sv 650s and I am sick of tired to clean my rear wheel and basically everything :)I thought wd40 good for clean the chain...

  • @ivornotion6624
    @ivornotion6624 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    thanks for clearing up a common misconception

  • @brisfocus3648
    @brisfocus3648 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    WD-40 is also a light lubricant so it performs okay on a bike chain. Other lubricants especially dry ones clog up your chain and flick off everywhere - and then your chain needs cleaning again!! Simply give your chain a regular quick spray with WD-40 to keep it clean and lubed - stops you needing to spend a lot of time cleaning it!! top tip - place a piece of cardboard behind the chain to stop over spray and then a quick wipe with a paper towel and job done. Of course it goes without saying never do this with the engine on!!

    • @t.h1572
      @t.h1572 8 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      WD40 does not lube.. if you use wd 40 on your bike chain as cleaning and lubing then you are just stupid.

  • @yugandharbandi9241
    @yugandharbandi9241 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    finally cleared the confusion, thank you very much ,video is very useful

  • @sygphonzy2586
    @sygphonzy2586 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great video with a lot of information. Appreciate it bro.

  • @iamfastfast
    @iamfastfast 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You should've tested if WD-40 displaces the oil in o-rings or not. That's why most people don't use WD-40 to clean their chains.

  • @Eagles.Fan.Since.Super.Bowl.52
    @Eagles.Fan.Since.Super.Bowl.52 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I was wondering about this and of course this is the channel that has the answer. Nicely done!

  • @LukaDonchez77
    @LukaDonchez77 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've been using Brake Cleaner as chain cleaner for 4 years now. Never encountered a problem.

  • @blake_c_8596
    @blake_c_8596 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Glad we finally get the truth on that situation. thanks for proving the point guys.

  • @amirulaiman8589
    @amirulaiman8589 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    i'm using Turpentine for cleaning and white lithium grease for lubricate. Safe method?

  • @SchlongDynasty
    @SchlongDynasty 8 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I always figured since wd40 was a penetrating solvent it would get in behind the Orings and thin out the grease in the chain.

    • @zipper978
      @zipper978 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      it wont this has been disproven

  • @AkaAndyKnuckles
    @AkaAndyKnuckles 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ari Henning; you are a great guy!

  • @thra5herxb12s
    @thra5herxb12s ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've never heard anyone say you can use WD40 to lube a chain. It's far too thin to lube a high stress component, save it for lubing cables.

  • @Rocketninja200
    @Rocketninja200 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cool myth bust! I'll still continue to use diesel though, simply because its way cheaper by volume. I would recommend DuPont Teflon Chain Saver as a lube. I've used it for years and if you follow the instructions the lube won't fling off and dirt doesn't stick to it unlike oil lubes. Its cheap and can be found at any Walmart.

    • @tedcrum
      @tedcrum 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +Rocketninja200 Biodiesel is also a good safe shop solvent. Dupont sells it in a red spray can as a companion to their excellent "Teflon Chain Saver." The purest petroleum solvent you can buy is charcoal lighter. It's the same Stoddard solvent that you used to use to wash parts.

  • @Papparratzi
    @Papparratzi 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Basically it’s sound advice. The error in the test methodology is that the o-rings need to be exposed to air after being sprayed, then left to dry.
    Soaking them prevents any affects from oxidation taking place.
    The test did conclude that WD-40 didn’t cause the rubber to swell.
    I would also conclude that any oxidation would be mitigated by following spraying WD-40 with chain lube.

  • @MohawkNinja636
    @MohawkNinja636 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good video. The point to take away is WD40 is a solvent, not a lubricant.
    Could you do a video on Purple Power? I run a motorcycle club and the question came up.

  • @johnharris7353
    @johnharris7353 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ari Henning is the man! Thanks Ari.

  • @hydorah
    @hydorah 8 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    The talk includes one of the main negative claims 'WD40 drives out lubricants such as grease'
    But no test for that is performed. 2 out 3 ain't bad I suppose but I'd like to see a follow up video where an assembled section of used chain is blasted with WD40 left for a while then examined, VS a section of the same used chain to see what difference there may be

    • @jeepmanxj
      @jeepmanxj 8 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      How exactly would it "drive out lubricants"? Its not going to drive it out any more than kerosene will drive it out, or any chain cleaner will honestly. The problem is people think WD40 is a lubricant, it is not.

    • @hydorah
      @hydorah 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      WD40 drives out lubricants by breaking them down, thinning them and carrying them away. WD40 is very light indeed, similar to kerosene in fact it's main ingredient is naptha, a term which can include kerosene. You can see it in action put some grease on something, blast it with WD40 and it's carried away, even in an assembly. And yes the misconception that WD40 is a lubricant is the main reason for negative perception. It's great and extremely useful as long as you don't use it as a substitute for an appropriate lubricant all is well

    • @kuhndj67
      @kuhndj67 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      the concept is that the 'penetrating' part of penetrating oil (Like wd40) will sneak by the o-ring and displace lubricant. This is actually the argument (against wd40) I've heard most often... not that it would swell the o-rings. I've seen people post pics of disassembled chains showing the internals all rusted out and they blame wd40. This is the question I'd like answered regarding chain maintenance.

    • @jeepmanxj
      @jeepmanxj 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Wd40 is not a penetrating oil.

    • @hydorah
      @hydorah 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes it is. Read the thread, or know some chemistry or something. Don't just say stupid things with no substantiation

  • @DearMajesty
    @DearMajesty 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just want to note that WD-40 is GREAT for CLEANING chains, but it's not really a lubricant so you should use something ELSE to LUBE your chain. Thanks for the video MM! Love the videos...way better than that chickenshit motorcycle.com crap

  • @Spartan375X
    @Spartan375X ปีที่แล้ว

    I have used acetone to clean my o-ring chain once before.
    It cleaned really good. Too good.
    The Grunge Brush melted and fell apart.
    The chain was not doing too good soon after.

  • @evergreengunnut1621
    @evergreengunnut1621 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    No pocket protector? Damn you're brave! I think over brushing the chain is the biggest threat to your sealed chain.

  • @cvitkovic94
    @cvitkovic94 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Tnx you help a lot with tips for beginer riders

  • @sfzx54
    @sfzx54 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Sorry to disagree here Ari. The only time I used kerosene to clean a chain it was reduced to shite in no time at all. (less than a thousand miles) What happens to the o'ring is not all that matters!!!! The solvent does seep past the o'rings and turns your lube contained by the o'rings into nothing more than a liquid lubricant that the o'rings can no longer do a good job of containing inside the links. I consistently get about 30,000 miles from a chain and sprockets using only a light brushing to remove junk and lubing with a good quality chain lube. This has even been the case on a ZX11 producing major power. The test that might prove something would be to clean a chain with WD or kerosene for a few thousand miles and then on another equal machine just lube and brush to clean. Then take the chains apart to see what has happened to the factory installed grease in the chain links. If both looked identical then you would have your proof!!
    Sorry for the long winded post but just an observation from someone thats been a sport touring rider since 1968 and logged at least 600,000 miles on 39 different motorcycles, incidentally I'm the only mechanic that works on my bikes as well.

  • @michaelarchangel1163
    @michaelarchangel1163 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    GT85 is great for cleaning a chain and rear wheel. Some folk use it as lube too, for bicycles, as it contains teflon, but is it heavy duty enough for a motorcycle chain ?

  • @theodoremarakas9899
    @theodoremarakas9899 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Use WD-40 to clean the chain and dispose water from the chain BUT after a couple of hours, after the WD-40 has dried, use a good chain lube like Chain saver with PTFE from Dupont. No fling, no dirt sticking and easy to remove for cleaning and re-lube.

  • @EnjoyCalculus
    @EnjoyCalculus 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    What does brake cleaner do exactly to the o rings? I used it on the front sprocket of my 04 cbr600rr because the previous owners never cleaned the front sprocket and it had tons of goop the size of marbles in the surrounding area of the front sprocket and I used brake cleaner to get rid of it. Some of the cleaner was used on the front sprocket that had some parts of the chain exposed to it

  • @j2d389
    @j2d389 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Some folks use Diesel Fuel to clean grease. Will this damage the o-rings? Thanks

  • @Roquenmunoz
    @Roquenmunoz 8 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Can you guys do a video on proper maintenance for bikes with belts? I have a Star Bolt R-spec with over 9,000 miles and want to keep it going for alot longer.

    • @MotorcyclistMag
      @MotorcyclistMag  8 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      +Roque Munoz You should check your owner's manual, but in general with belts you just want to inspect it for cracks or damage. If it looks good, keep riding!

    • @saulocpp
      @saulocpp 8 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      +Roque Munoz The only maintenance you do to belts is to use the bike. But HD forums will say they lick their belts because the saliva provides a special coating, blablabla.

    • @blueschild61
      @blueschild61 8 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      +Motorcyclist Magazine
      How about an episode on how to tell if you need a new chain; whether or not you should D.I.Y. and how to D.I.Y.
      Thanks guys, love the new episodes, keep it up.

  • @PadmaDorjee
    @PadmaDorjee ปีที่แล้ว

    This was so thorough and awesome, thank you. I think I will use Kerosene like you suggested.

  •  7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I use wd40 for cleaning AND LUBE a 520 chain kit on my CBR 1100 XX, 164 Hp, lots of torque and lighter 520 chain instead oem 530, chain last 15.000 km in perfect condition, no more gunk all over the place, pristine clean. The only trade off is that I have to lube it every 500 km, but I prefer that over all the dirt.

  • @sparklysparks77
    @sparklysparks77 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Really well made and informative. And great fire effect, by the way! Thanks.

  • @MociProgrammer
    @MociProgrammer ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi. Do you think the non-ring chain can be installed on a suzuki sv650? The current O-ring chain lasted 20,000 km, even though I maintained it regularly.

  • @windkante6210
    @windkante6210 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I use WD-40 for cleaning my chain for years. Works pretty good, no harm to the Chain.