Waxing your bicycle chain is an excellent way to keep your drivetrain clean, efficient, and long-lasting. Though it takes a bit more preparation and time than traditional lubrication, a properly waxed chain can last longer and require less frequent maintenance, especially in dry conditions. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to wax your bicycle chain, from cleaning to waxing and reinstallation.
Before you begin waxing your chain, gather the following supplies:
- Chain degreaser or isopropyl alcohol for cleaning
- Boiling water or a solvent for deep cleaning (optional, for factory grease removal)
- Wax for lubrication
- Slow cooker or wax pot to melt the wax
- Chain quick link pliers for easy removal and reinstallation of the chain or a chain removal tool
- Container for shaking the chain in degreaser or cleaning solvent
- Gloves and pliers to handle the chain during waxing (optional for safety)
- Old towel or rag to dry the chain
Step 1: Remove the Chain from the Bike
To wax your chain properly, you'll need to remove it from your bicycle. This is easier if your chain has a quick link (also known as a master link), which allows you to detach the chain without needing special tools. Use quick link pliers to separate the quick link and remove the chain from the bike. Set aside the quick link, as you’ll need it later to reattach the chain. Incase you dont have quick links use a chain removal tool to make it easier
Step 2: Clean the Chain Thoroughly
Before applying wax, the chain must be completely free of grease, oils, dirt, and any old lubricants. A clean chain ensures that the wax can properly adhere and protect the metal surfaces.
- Place the chain in a container filled with a strong degreaser like the Ultra Green Drivetrain Cleaner. Shake the container vigorously to dislodge dirt and grime from the chain.
- Boiling Water Rinse (optional): For optimal results, especially for new chains that come with factory grease, boil the chain in water to help remove any residual grease or oil that degreasing didn’t fully clean.
- Boil water in a pot and let the chain soak for several minutes. This helps strip the factory lubricant off the chain.
- Remove the chain from the water and let it dry completely before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Wax
- Place your wax into a slow cooker or dedicated wax pot. Heat the wax until it is fully melted and reaches a temperature of around 180°F (80°C).
- If desired, you can mix in additives like PTFE (Teflon powder) or molybdenum disulfide to enhance the friction-reducing properties of the wax. You can also opt for the chain wax offered by NAC as it has Molybdenum Disulfide already added to the wax making it easier for you.
- Make sure the chain is dry and clean before placing it into the molten wax. You can use pliers to handle the chain during this process to avoid burns.
- Once the wax is fully melted and the chain is clean and dry, it’s time to coat the chain in wax.
- Use pliers or a hook to lower the chain into the pot of molten wax. Ensure the entire chain is submerged and fully coated.
- Let the chain sit in the wax for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the wax to penetrate deep into the chain’s rollers and links.
- Gently stir or agitate the chain in the wax to help the wax flow into the tight spaces between the rollers and pins.
Step 4: Remove and Cool the Chain
- Take the Chain Out of the Wax, Using pliers or a hook, carefully remove the chain from the hot wax. Allow the excess wax to drip back into the pot before setting the chain aside to cool.
- Hang the chain on a hook or lay it on an old towel to let the wax cool and harden completely. As the wax hardens, it will form a protective coating on the chain’s surface.
- Once the chain has cooled, gently flex it back and forth to break any excess wax that might have hardened between the links. This ensures smooth operation when you reinstall it on your bike.
Step 4: Reinstall the Chain
- Use the quick link pliers to reattach the chain to your bike using the quick link you removed earlier. Incase you dont have quicklinks use the chain removal tool to reinstall the chain back on the bike
- Make sure the chain is routed correctly through the derailleur and cassette.
- Spin the pedals and shift through the gears to help settle the wax and smooth out any stiff spots.
- Your chain is now waxed and ready for use! You’ll notice smoother pedaling and less dirt accumulation compared to lubricated chains. The wax will repel dust and grit, keeping your drivetrain cleaner for longer.
Maintenance and Re-Waxing
After riding for a few hundred miles (depending on conditions), your wax will begin to wear off. You can either apply a wax-based drip lube to extend the wax's life or remove the chain and repeat the hot-waxing process. In dry conditions, a waxed chain can last 400-500 Kilometers before reapplication. In wet or muddy conditions, the wax may wear off faster, requiring reapplication after 200-250 Kilometers.
Pro Tips for Chain Waxing
- Use a Quick Link: A quick link makes chain removal and reinstallation much easier, especially when regularly waxing your chain.
- Dedicated Wax Pot: Consider having a slow cooker or pot dedicated to waxing to avoid contaminating kitchen cookware.
- Wax Additives: Additives like PTFE (Teflon), molybdenum disulfide or graphite can enhance the performance of the wax by reducing friction even further.
- Regular Cleaning: Even though a waxed chain stays cleaner than a lubed one, it’s still important to clean the chain and drivetrain periodically to maintain maximum efficiency.
Conclusion
Waxing your bicycle chain is an excellent maintenance method for cyclists looking to keep their drivetrain clean and efficient, especially in dry and dusty environments. While the process is more involved than traditional lubing, the benefits of longer-lasting protection, lower friction, and a cleaner chain make it worth the effort for many riders. By following these steps, you can wax your chain and enjoy smoother, quieter rides with less frequent maintenance.