ATV Chain Care and Maintenance

ATV Chain Care and Maintenance

Most sport ATVS or “quads” use a chain drive system rather than a drive-shaft system to put the power to the wheels. When it has been properly maintained, an ATV will roll smoothly if you push it in neutral. But, if you hear a crunchy chain or can feel a resistance that is not typical to your machine, it may be time for some lubrication or even a new chain.

Steps To Cleaning Your Chains

1. Use an ATV stand or jack stand to lift your quad so that the rear wheels are off the ground.
2. Taking an old shop rag or T-shirt, scrape off any excess mud or grime from the entirety of your chain. Be sure not to squeeze the cloth in to the chain—you don’t want to press any dirt in to the chain links.
3. Use an ATV or dirt bike specific chain lubricant to generously spray the chain.
4. Spin the ATV’s sprocket to ensure you spray the entire length of the chain.
5. Wipe off any excess or dripping lubricant to keep your work space clean.

When you’re spraying your lubricant on to the ATV chain, it is always important to make sure you avoid any contact with the machine’s brake parts. If you soak a disc brake in lubricant, you’ll be in for a nasty surprise the next time you squeeze the brakes.

Do NOT Use WD40

WD-40 is not a lubricant. I repeat: WD-40 is not a lubricant. Chances are you have seen a rookie spraying gobs of WD-40 all over his chain before a ride, do not be “that guy.” The “WD” in WD-40 stands for “Water Dissolvent,” so it’s fine for cleaning up some rust or getting gum out of your hair (bet ya didn’t know that), but keep it away from your ATV’s chain. Proper dirt bike and ATV chain lube can be found at most auto parts stores.

How to Tell if You Need a New Chain

• Chain Slap: The sound of the chain hopping around your chain guard.
• Chain Flex: You can physically feel “loose” sections in parts of your chain.
• Rust: If you have rust on your chain, it is time for a new one.
• Loose: If your chain is properly tensioned and you can nearly pull it off the sprocket, it is replacement time.

WD40 is not for chains. Use chain lube.

As with any ATV maintenance, it’s good to consult your bible (owner’s manual) before embarking on any major maintenance. However, keeping your chain in good running order is simple enough for anyone to manage.

By: Sean Bowes