Quote:
Originally Posted by Ram Jet
I'll be anxious to hear your findings.
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I've been using DuPont Chainsaver for about six months now, both on my bicycle chains, and on my motorcycle chains. Previously, I used lithium based general purpose grease mixed with mineral spirits (AKA Varsol, paint thinner) on my bicycle chains. I applied it after a thorough cleaning in mineral spirits and drying, by putting some in a plastic bottle with the chain, shaking it vigorously for a while, hanging up the chain and letting it dry overnight.
Advantage of Chainsaver: It is less sticky than grease and doesn't get as much road grit in it. It still gets some though.
Disadvantage of Chainsaver: On my bicycle it lasts about 1/3 as long as grease. When I grease a chain, I can ride about 600 miles with no obvious signs of a problem, and I clean and re-grease. If I go over about 900 miles, it sometimes starts to squeak, indicating it's past due for service. When I use Chainsaver, I get squeaking at about 300 miles.
I accurately measure the bicycle chain each time I service it, and replace it when it gets over about 1/16" of increased length in one foot. With grease, that takes at least 15,000 miles, maybe more. I won't know how the Chainsaver does in that regard because I've gone back to grease.
I plan to stay with Chainsaver on my motorcycle chains because they stay cleaner that way, and most of the time I can just apply a new coat without having to solvent clean the chain. Also, it doesn't sling off and cake up under the front sprocket cover like grease or other chain lubes do.