questions about chain

[booger]

where is the defect?

I never implied there was a defect. My original post asked what it was that I did wrong, if anything. I've come to the conclusion that not cleaning the chain enough, especially the sprocket teeth where chain wax tends to build up and trap grit, is what caused the damage. So basically I've answered my own question. I think this thread is useful though, if nothing else to caution the rest of you against allowing wax to build up on the sprocket teeth. 

[battlecry]

And the chain is aligned right?  Is the front sprocket showing noticeable wear?

I gave up on wax heavy products a while ago and use the DuPont Teflon/Wax spray in the blue can.  The wax still keeps grit, but the Teflon makes it slippery grit. 

[He Man]

I never implied there was a defect. My original post asked what it was that I did wrong, if anything. I've come to the conclusion that not cleaning the chain enough, especially the sprocket teeth where chain wax tends to build up and trap grit, is what caused the damage. So basically I've answered my own question. I think this thread is useful though, if nothing else to caution the rest of you against allowing wax to build up on the sprocket teeth. 

ive cleaned my chain maybe 6 times in its whole 16,000ish mile life with me.

[Popeye the Sailor]

You guys clean chains? 

[ducpainter]

I never implied there was a defect. My original post asked what it was that I did wrong, if anything. I've come to the conclusion that not cleaning the chain enough, especially the sprocket teeth where chain wax tends to build up and trap grit, is what caused the damage. So basically I've answered my own question. I think this thread is useful though, if nothing else to caution the rest of you against allowing wax to build up on the sprocket teeth. 

...and my defect comment wasn't necessarily directed at you.

Two other posters did think your chain is defective.

[koko64]

Fine!  Go ahead!  Clean your chain with diesel and feed your kids high fructose corn syrup!  See if we care!

Seriously, I can see that the chain might be done at 6k but I would expect stretch, worn cogs, and stiff links, not just haywire x-rings.  I'd call the vendor, you might get a full replacement or at least a discount on the next one.

Yes, some chain waxes do seem to hold grit, it happens if you leave too much on for sure.  I use Maxima too right now, about every 300 miles, no other cleaning.  I'm thinking of going with the Dupont Spray Teflon that everyone raves about, get it at any Lowe's.  O/X-ring chains just need a little bit of lube for the rings, the chain is already packed with grease and there's no getting more in past the rings once it's worn out.  The teflon leaves the chain super clean and people all seem to be getting good mileage with it.

Or just skip the o-rings altogether and go traditional.  This is an interesting site:
http://www.quality-cycle.com/truth_about_motorcycle_chains.htm

I thought about it, it's cheaper for sure, but I'm lazy and like the low mess afforded by an x-ring chain, and the safety factor if I neglect it longer than I should.  Plus I live in Portland and ride in the rain regularly.  Ok, I'm really just mostly lazy.

Scott

Hi Scott

That was a great article about chains. Very enlightening.
I'm not surprised by the chain prices being related to marketing rather than strength and durability.

Thanks.

[koko64]

I never implied there was a defect. My original post asked what it was that I did wrong, if anything. I've come to the conclusion that not cleaning the chain enough, especially the sprocket teeth where chain wax tends to build up and trap grit, is what caused the damage. So basically I've answered my own question. I think this thread is useful though, if nothing else to caution the rest of you against allowing wax to build up on the sprocket teeth. 

Thanks for the caution bergdoerfer.

We sure can overdo it with the chain lube. Excess chain wax/lube and dirt makes a great grinding paste (cliched but true). Let alone nearly high siding the ol' Triumph Bonneville when I was a newbie, (a long time ago). I've been sparse with the chain lube ever since!

Is my eyesight failing in my middle years or do those x-rings look almost squashed out.
It might not be you. I'd have the mechanic I trust check it just to be sure.

Cheers

[scott_araujo]

Yes, o/x-ring chains need very little lube.  Standard old school chains need a bit more but still less than most people slop on.

Scott

[♣ McKraut ♣]

You guys clean chains? 

i'm with this guy.  i just spray it down with more dupont teflon every few rides

[booger]

...and my defect comment wasn't necessarily directed at you.

Two other posters did think your chain is defective.

No worries; I might try to finagle a replacement but in my experience the end result will be ummmm nopers.