Chain Cleaning

[Newtwo6x6]

Hi all, looking for some info on cleaning chains. My chains are very dirty. Just bought this Max IV, 1999. I cleaned the bottom of the tub as it was dirty. Can I clean them with removing them, (a lot of work). Also what is recommanded for cleaning solution. Thanks.

[blown84gt]

I'm sure someone will say I did it wrong but I soaked my chans, sprockets, and tub in Super Clean and trailered it to the car wash, then I lubed everything back up when I got home. I was particular to not hit the axle bearings directly but the chains and sprockets I really put it to them.

[MAXII420]

Clean them with Kerosene and a firm nylon bristle brush and then soak then in motor oil, then re-grease.

[Newtwo6x6]

Ok, thanks, but is all this done with chains still in machine, or do you remove them. Also how often should chains be cleaned and lubed.

[Supermag]

I usually buy 4 liter of wd 40 and using a good wash tub soak the chains overnight. The WD 40 does a great job of loosening the old dried up lube and dirt built up between links. I use a minnow bucket aerator I picked up at the bait shop to agitate the WD 40. The aerators just send air into the wash tub causing a boiling effect. I just make sure the air line is below all the chains. After 12 hours of this the chains are clean as a whistle. Diesel fuel also works great and is much cheaper.

[Newtwo6x6]

Is it best to remove the chains, or can I clean them while still in machine,(Max). Will Diesel hurt plastic tub. Thanks.

[Supermag]

I remove them once or twice a year depending on the condition, Soak them overnight while injecting air to the bottom of the soak tub. The next day I dry them with a rag and compressed air and lube before I reinstall. While they are out it gives me a chance to clean the tub. The cleaner you get the chains the better the new lube penetrates the links and rollers.

Dave

[Rock Doctor]

Is it best to remove the chains, or can I clean them while still in machine,(Max). Will Diesel hurt plastic tub. Thanks.

Won't hurt the tub, but will make it smell really bad for a long, long time
I don't mind the smell of diesel, but over time it gets to be a bit much.

RD