On 6 Jan 2004 06:02:40 -0800, (Art Harris) wrote:
TBGibb wrote:
Date Miles Elongation Elongation
of washed of unwashed
01/05/04 2739.52 1/16" 1/32"


This data indicates that NOT washing the chain in solvent doubles
chain life. How do you explain that? Chain "stretch" is caused by wear
on the pins. Washing in solvent should remove internal grit better
than scrubbing with a toothbrush, and therefore result in longer life.

I imagine that washing in solvent also removes internal lubrication
better, and probably leaves some solvent in it's place. Then, when
you lube it, the lube either never displaces the solvent, or is
diluted by the solvent.

Are you sure you didn't mislabel the two chain halves? Also, just out
of curiosity, did you leave the original packing grease on when the
chain was installed?

The original grease could make a difference too; and it would
definitely be removed by the solvent.

It all certainly supports my habit of just adding lube and then
buying a chain when I need one -- why spend so many hours over the
life of the chain when a new one is $25?

Art Harris
--
Rick Onanian