07-15-2024, 09:57 AM
I have used WD40 at an industrial level. I am talking about the original product (penetrant) not newer products that may be different. We only used it as a penetrant in preparation for disassembling equipment.
At one time I had received a part for our machinery which required some milling to custom fit it. I took WD40 and sprayed it on the steel to keep it from oxidizing before I brought it to the machine shop. Over a weekend of time with it not exposed directly to any moisture it started to rust. That showed just how poorly it acted as a protectant and lubricant. It is just too thin of a lubricant to use for that purpose.
The best old style method for lubricating a chain (thoroughly cleaned) is paraffin wax immersion as previously stated. Chain must be properly cleaned first or you will still have contaminants that will cause continued wear regardless of wax treatment. Cogs must also be cleaned to prevent immediate contamination to a clean chain.
I been using a wax suspended in synthetic motor or gear oil as a general lubricant for the last 6 yrs or more. I have not noticed any detrimental effects (accelerated wear, excessive grit build-up, etc.). It definitely quiets the drivetrain without using very much per application (about every 2 weeks depending on mileage.
At one time I had received a part for our machinery which required some milling to custom fit it. I took WD40 and sprayed it on the steel to keep it from oxidizing before I brought it to the machine shop. Over a weekend of time with it not exposed directly to any moisture it started to rust. That showed just how poorly it acted as a protectant and lubricant. It is just too thin of a lubricant to use for that purpose.
The best old style method for lubricating a chain (thoroughly cleaned) is paraffin wax immersion as previously stated. Chain must be properly cleaned first or you will still have contaminants that will cause continued wear regardless of wax treatment. Cogs must also be cleaned to prevent immediate contamination to a clean chain.
I been using a wax suspended in synthetic motor or gear oil as a general lubricant for the last 6 yrs or more. I have not noticed any detrimental effects (accelerated wear, excessive grit build-up, etc.). It definitely quiets the drivetrain without using very much per application (about every 2 weeks depending on mileage.