How to wax your chain is perhaps one of the most asked questions we receive here at Merlin Cycles in our shop. Luckily, Silca has made life a lot easier with their Ultimate Chain Waxing system. In this blog we describe the steps to follow to use the Ultimate Chain Waxing system and obtain the best results for easy bike maintenance.
Start with a brand new channel!
It is best to start the waxing process with a brand new chain. This means only factory grease is present on it and no deep cleaning is necessary. It’s also advisable to see what your chain wear looks like on the one being removed, as this would be a great time to replace any worn cassettes, chainrings or jockey wheels (again – saving a thorough cleaning of these elements before using a chain raincoat).
Configure the Silca Ultimate chain waxing system
This is a very simple process to complete and you will only need a Phillips screwdriver to attach the chain stay. Then it’s just a matter of finding a suitable place to carry out the process, free of clutter and away from edges and pets/children – the wax gets HOT!
Add wax
Add Silca Secret Chain Blend Hot Melt Wax to the pot so that the granules are 20mm below the top. If you are using a brand new chain, you will also want to remove the factory grease that came with it. This can be done at the same time in the pot using Silca StripChip Hot Melt Chain Degreaser – just add a piece to the wax. Alternatively, you can use the Silca Ultimate Chain Stripper and Wax Prep in a jam jar with the chain inside to remove grease.
Thread the chain
The chain needs the chain coupler threaded approximately every 6/7 links in order to hang from the top of the pot. This also makes it easier to lower it into the potty and remove it later.
Turn up the heat!
If you are using the StripChip and degreasing a brand new chain, increase the heat to 125°. Once this temperature is reached and the wax is melted, lower the chain into the wax and spin it for 30 seconds. Leave for 10 minutes to allow the wax to penetrate all the links. Then simply lower the pan to 75°. Once this temperature is reached, lift the chain and hang it so that it drips from the top.
If you have already degreased the chain and you are not using the StripChip, the pot only needs to be at 75°. Once the wax is melted, lower the chain into the wax, spin it for 30 seconds and leave for 10 minutes. Then remove to hang and let cool.
Break ties
The chain once cooled will now be quite stiff and stiff. Simply bend each link in either direction to release them, then install it on the bike with a clean drivetrain. It may take 15-20 minutes of riding for the chain to be properly broken in, but you are now riding on a waxed chain.
Benefits of chain waxing
The biggest advantage, according to most people, is the cleanliness of their transmission. Thanks to the lack of oil, no dirt remains stuck to the chain, making it easier to wash the entire bike after a ride, thus speeding up bike maintenance. And think about it, no more greasy stains on fresh white socks!
Another advantage is the saving of watts and the reduction of wear. This will save you energy while pedaling. Additionally, due to the lack of dirt being attracted to the chain, you eliminate abrasive paste that can build up and cause components to wear out more quickly. Again, less bike maintenance.
Chain maintenance
Once the chain has been immersed in hot melt wax, you can “top up” wax using a wax-based lubricant such as Silca Super Secret Chain Lubricant. This adds fresh wax to the links and provides quiet, smooth operation. After about 250 to 300 miles (depending on driving conditions), you will need to repeat the process of putting the chain in hot melt wax. Of course, the degreasing process can now be skipped.
To make it easier for you, we have compiled the Ultimate Chain Waxing Pack that makes it easy to get started. This includes:
- The Silca Ultimate chain waxing system
- Silca strip chip
- Silca Secret Chain Blend Hot Melt Wax
Get your bundle here – Silca Chain Hair Removal Bundle
