Webelos Chain Maintenance

Before the meeting:

1. Gather needed supplies.
2. Remind parents and legal guardians that Cub Scouts should bring their bike to the next meeting.
3. Set up your own bike to demonstrate lubricating the chain.

During the meeting:

1. Divide Cub Scouts into buddies, hand out rubber gloves, toothbrush, and rag to each group.
2. Tell Cub Scouts that they will be lubricating the chain on their bikes. Explain that it takes two people to do the maintenance safely and that both buddies will have a chance to lubricate the chain on their bikes.
3. One buddy is to hold the bike steady, while the owner of the bike works to clean and lubricate their bike chain.
   • Degrease the chain. Add a small amount of degreaser to the toothbrush, hold it to the top of the chain, and backpedal. Repeat this step with the bottom of your chain, always brushing the section of chain below your drivetrain.
   • Rub down your chain with soapy water and rinse to clean off excess degreaser.
   • Choose your lube. Use wet lube if you ride in wet, muddy conditions, and dry lube if you ride in dry conditions.
   • Lube your chain. Carefully place a small drop of lube on top of each roller in your chain. Make sure to aim the lube right into your rollers. Getting lube on the outside of the chain will just pick up more dirt.
   • Wipe off any excess lube, and you’re ready to ride.

Tip: Only use bike lubricant that is designed for bikes.