How to Fix a Rusted, Frozen Bicycle Chain
We are going to need some tools, but the most important one is oil. Used motor oil will work. Another tool that we might need, is a couple pliers. Because we are working with oil, some rags is another optional tool to have.
The first thing is to setup the bicycle so we can work on it. The best setup is to have the bicycle upside down. You can stand it up with out braces. You flip it, and stand it upside down. Keep the bicycle handles straight. It’s the handles that keep it balanced.
The first step is to oil the chain. Try to conserve your oil, and put it on the chain. It depends on how bad the chain is, but you may have to oil it several times.
With the chain oiled down, you need to start moving some the links. If the chain is not to bad, then you might be able to peddle the bicycle with it standing upside down. Make sure you move the peddles in the correct direction. Remember it’s upside down, so we are looking at a backwards view. If the peddle moves and the rim spins, then you are blessed with an easy fix. The chain may have some kinks here and there. It’s a good idea to keep adding some oil on the chain. You have to get every link of the chain loose.
If it’s not movable, are there is some stubborn links follow this part of the article. The basic method is to move the links. Ounce they start moving you have them loose. You may have to use some force on them. Taking two sets of pliers, you can clamp on a link. You then bend the link up and down with the pliers. Remember, all you have to do is move the link. Ounce it moves, it will get more and more loose.
The final touches is to ride the bicycle. Do not take a journey somewhere, we are still working the chain. The reason behind this stage, is to put some weight behind the chain. This can get out some really stubborn links.
After the chain has been all loosened up you might have to tighten it. That step depends on your kind of bicycle. If it’s a bicycle with only one gear set, then it’s got to be tightened. If it’s got many gears, like a ten speed, then you should not have to adjust it. It depends on your situation.
I spent about three hours on the last chain I fixed. It still has one kink, and because it’s a ten speed style bicycle, I will just ride the bicycle and wait for it to loosen up. The chain had been sitting around on the bicycle for about two or more years. It was a tough one, but using the above method, it is all in working order. I will have to keep it oiled for now, but I can ride that bicycle again.
