This ubiquitous blue and yellow WD-40 box discovered in avid garages and local auto parts outlets has come a long way (literally) since it was the outer skin of Convair’s Atlas missiles in the 1950s. The product was so effective as a rust remover that workers at Rocket Chemical Company—the manufacturer of WD-40—took some cans out of the factory for use in their respective homes.
Since it appeared on San Diego store shelves in 1958, WD-40 is a must-have for any and all homes, garages, job sites, or everything in between. It helps clean and protect equipment from rust and corrosion, removes rust or rust stains, and can even restore clarity to foggy or yellowed headlight lenses. It can also effortlessly remove dead insects or bugs, along with the many things that WD-40 can do for your house or car.
However, there are debates online about the effectiveness of WD-40 in cleaning motorcycle chains. Since the chains are made of metal, this means that WD-40 is suitable as the formula is anti-corrosion and water penetrating disposal agents. deeply to remove dirt and other contaminants. But what is the genuine score?
Yes, but there is a problem. Most of the talk (or hate) about WD-40 for blank motorcycle chains is about rubber O-rings, X-seals, or W-seals on rollers. These O-rings help keep grease or lubricant inside the rollers for smoother operation. Which is a fear for most drivers when it comes to WD-40 for cleaning motorcycle chains.
According to the official WD-40 MSDS, the product comprises up to 50% aliphatic hydrocarbons or hydrotreated naphtha, usually a petrochemical aggregate such as kerosene or mineral alcohols. It turns out that motorcycle brands like Yamaha and Honda are betting heavily on kerosene for the white. motorcycle chains. Therefore, WD-40’s dirt-repellent and water-displacing formula is perfectly suited for whitening your motorcycle chains.
The trick is to use a separate chain lubricant after cleaning. Spray WD-40 generously all over the chain and let it soak for two to three minutes before wiping off any excess dirt and grime with a cleaning cloth. The last step is to lubricate the chain. With your favorite chain lubricant or the special WD-40 roller chain lubricant, protect from rust, contaminants and breakage.