Why Drive Chain Maintenance Matters
Neglecting your motorcycle’s drive chain can lead to:
- Reduced Performance: A loose or tight chain affects power delivery and handling.
- Increased Wear: Dirt, lack of lubrication, or excessive tension accelerates chain and sprocket wear.
- Safety Risks: A worn or improperly adjusted chain can snap or derail, posing a serious hazard.
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance, extends the life of the chain and sprockets, and enhances safety.
TVS raider 125 cc chain slack adjustment
Proper lubrication and adjustment of drive chain
gives long service life of chain. Poor maintenance
of chain causes premature wear or damage to the
drive chain and sprockets. Poor chain maintenance
also affects mileage of the vehicle. The drive chain
must be cleaned, checked, lubricated and adjusted
at specified intervals mentioned in the maintenance
schedule.
If the vehicle is used under severe conditions and
more dusty area, the drive chain must be attended
more frequently.
Check, clean, lubricate and adjust the drive chain in
the following manner:
1. Place the vehicle on centre stand with the
transmission in neutral.
2. Inspect the drive chain slackness (vertical
movement) using the finger as shown in the
figure.
3. The slackness of the drive chain should not
exceed the limit (maximum 20 ~ 30 mm). Excess
slackness consumes more fuel.
4. If the slackness is found more, contact TVS Motor
Company Authorised Main Dealer / Authorised
Dealer for adjustment.
5. If the slackness found is within the limit, clean
the chain with TRU SPRAY chain cleaner & dry
cloth and lubricate using TRU SPRAY / TRU4 oil
Riding with improperly adjusted chain / high slackness
can cause the chain to come off the sprockets resulting
in accident or serious damage to the motorcycle.
Misalignment of rear wheel or sprockets can cause
abnormal wear of chain and sprockets and results in
unsafe riding condition
Main Problem with drive chain skippage and brutal accident
due to wear in chain sprocket it skips from sprocket frequentyly, make sure to change chain along with sprocket beyond certair Kilomemters limit. 25000-50000 based on chain type or manufcature recommeded by user manual.
Best cheap Lubricant for chain cleaning & lube
90 grade brake oil for lube. gasoline or wd 40.
How to Maintain Your Motorcycle Drive Chain
1. Check and Adjust Chain Slack
Chain slack refers to the amount of free movement in the chain. Too much slack can cause poor power transfer, while too little slack increases tension, leading to premature wear or damage.
- Tools Needed
- Wrench or spanner
- Torque wrench
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Your motorcycle’s user manual
- Steps to Adjust Slack
- Park Your Motorcycle: Use the center stand or paddock stand for stability. Ensure the bike is on level ground.
- Measure the Slack: Find the midpoint of the chain. Push the chain upward and measure the vertical movement. Most motorcycles require 20-30mm of slack, but refer to your manual for exact specifications.
- Loosen the Axle Nut: Use a wrench to loosen the rear axle nut slightly.
- Adjust the Tensioners: Adjust the chain tensioners on both sides of the swingarm evenly:
- Tighten to reduce slack.
- Loosen to increase slack.
- Recheck the Slack: Ensure the chain is neither too tight nor too loose.
- Tighten the Axle Nut: Once the slack is correct, use a torque wrench to tighten the axle nut to the specified torque value.
2. Clean the Drive Chain
Cleaning removes dirt, grime, and old lubricant, which can wear down the chain and sprockets.
- Tools Needed
- Chain cleaner or kerosene
- A soft brush (or chain cleaning tool)
- Clean rags
- Steps to Clean
- Apply a chain cleaner or kerosene to the chain. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage O-rings.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush to remove grime. Focus on all sides of the chain.
- Wipe the chain dry with a clean rag.
3. Lubricate the Drive Chain
Lubrication reduces friction, prevents rust, and ensures smooth operation.
- Tools Needed
- Motorcycle-specific chain lube
- Chain wax (optional)
- Steps to Lubricate
- Spin the rear wheel slowly and spray the chain lube evenly onto the inner side of the chain (the area in contact with the sprockets).
- Let the lube settle for a few minutes.
- Optional: Apply chain wax for added protection.
4. Inspect for Wear and Replace When Necessary
Chains and sprockets wear over time and need replacement to maintain performance and safety.
- Signs of Wear
- Stretched Chain: A chain that exceeds its adjustment limits needs replacement.
- Damaged Links: Kinks, rust, or stiff links are indicators of wear.
- Worn Sprockets: Teeth that are pointed, hooked, or uneven signal the need for replacement.
- Replacement Process
- Replace the chain and sprockets together to ensure proper fit and performance.
- Use the right chain size and sprockets as specified in your motorcycle’s manual.
Tips for Effective Drive Chain Maintenance
- Frequency: Clean and lubricate the chain every 300-500 miles or after riding in wet or dirty conditions.
- Alignment: Ensure the rear wheel is properly aligned during slack adjustment to prevent uneven wear.
- Avoid Over-Tightening: A tight chain increases stress on the sprockets and transmission.
- Use Quality Products: Invest in high-quality chain lubes and cleaners designed for motorcycle chains.
Benefits of Regular Drive Chain Maintenance
- Improved Performance: Smooth and efficient power delivery.
- Increased Lifespan: Proper care extends the life of the chain and sprockets.
- Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of chain failure or derailment.
- Cost Savings: Prevents expensive repairs by addressing issues early.
Conclusion
Motorcycle drive chain maintenance is essential for safety, performance, and durability. Regularly checking slack, cleaning, lubricating, and replacing worn components will keep your bike running smoothly and reliably.
Incorporate these steps into your routine maintenance schedule and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained motorcycle chain on every ride.
FAQs on Motorcycle Drive Chain Maintenance
- How often should I adjust my motorcycle chain?
Check and adjust every 500 miles or as specified in your motorcycle’s manual. - Can I use WD-40 to clean my chain?
Yes, WD-40 can be used as a cleaner, but it’s not a lubricant. Always follow up with a motorcycle-specific chain lube. - How do I know if my chain is too tight?
A tight chain will have minimal slack and may cause clicking or whining noises while riding. - When should I replace my motorcycle chain?
Replace the chain when it’s stretched beyond limits, has damaged links, or if the sprockets show excessive wear.
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