How do I use Strip Chip?Updated 20 days ago
Step-by-Step Instructions for Using StripChip
Here are some more detailed instructions on how to use this product to the best of its abilities. Please note that StripChip will only work with factory new chains. If you would like to wax a used chain, please see our instructions on how to strip a chain with chain stripper.
You may continue to use the same pot of wax with the StripChip in it for any of your future waxing (re-waxs, waxing other new chains, waxing used, but stripped and cleaned, chains). Each time that you use this pot of wax to wax another factory-new chain you will need to add an addtional square of StripChip. Once you have accumulated a total of 6 squares (one whole bar) of StripChip in your pot, we do recommed starting over with fresh wax in your pot.
1. The wax melter in the SILCA Chain Waxing System will turn on to a temperature of 75°C, so you will need to increase that by pushing the (+) button to read 125°C when using the StripChip degreaser additive. Strip Chip works best with SILCA Super Secret Chain Blend Hot Melt Wax.
2. Break off one (1) of the 12-gram StripChip pieces and place it on the surface of the wax in the melter as it is warming. a. Fully melt the wax and StripChip, so that the additive piece is no longer visible.
3. Thread the Chain Waxing System Cable Coupler through 5 or 6 different links in the chain, spaced out to allow a good number of links between each. The segments not connected will hang down but should be compact enough in arrangement to fit the chain into the pot when lowered.
4. Gently lower the chain using the cable coupler into the wax and lightly agitate it for 30 seconds in the wax, being careful not to spill or splatter any of the hot wax.
5. Allow the chain to sit submerged for 10 minutes in the 125°C wax mixture.
6. Lightly agitate the chain again for 30 seconds, and then lower (-) the melter temperature back to 75°C.
7. Once the temperature reaches 75°C (about 10 more minutes), it is safe to remove the chain from the wax using the cable coupler and place it on the Chain Waxing System drip stand to dry.
8. Allow 10 to 15 minutes of cooling/drying time before attempting to handle and install the chain on your bike.
9. The chain will be stiff with the cooled, hardened wax. It is easier if you articulate each link, breaking them free before installing on the bike.
10. Depending upon the environmental conditions, you will need 10 to 20 minutes of pedaling to break in the new chain with the rest of the components of your drivetrain. There may be some wax flaking from the exterior of the chain during this process. If not riding outside, place a towel under the bike to capture this bit of excess wax and facilitate clean up.
Note: In cold environments, it is quickest to break in a normal ambient room temperature chain (i.e., not a cold chain).
7. Once the temperature reaches 75°C (about 10 more minutes), it is safe to remove the chain from the wax using the cable coupler and place it on the Chain Waxing System drip stand to dry.
8. Allow 10 to 15 minutes of cooling/drying time before attempting to handle and install the chain on your bike.
9. The chain will be stiff with the cooled, hardened wax. It is easier if you articulate each link, breaking them free before installing on the bike.
10. Depending upon the environmental conditions, you will need 10 to 20 minutes of pedaling to break in the new chain with the rest of the components of your drivetrain. There may be some wax flaking from the exterior of the chain during this process. If not riding outside, place a towel under the bike to capture this bit of excess wax and facilitate clean up.
Note: In cold environments, it is quickest to break in a normal ambient room temperature chain (i.e., not a cold chain).
I hope the steps above helped answer your questions. If you have any other questions please feel free to reach out we are more than happy to answer them!