Automatic chain oilers?

[4 Paws_imp]

Anybody use an automatic chain oiling system on their CB?
Which one?
Money well spent? or just spent?

I'm starting to fall into the trap of adding farkels because I can, and found one that meets all the relevant criteria - expensive, functional, simple.

[Lord Popgun]

These are o-ring chains that by all reports last a LONG time. I personally would not bother with the (possible)mess or aggravation. But that's just me

[kmoney_imp]

Unless you're doing lots of really long rides (I.E., where you are out riding the lube interval for the chain in one go) and can't be bothered to just hit it with normal spray lube at the end of the day, then I doubt you would get much practical benefit from one of these.

You also have to locate the resivoir, run power and run the tube to the chain. I personally wouldn't bother on something like our CB's.

[the Ferret]

On my two one week CB trips, 2000 miles and 6 states each trip, I carried a small can of chain lube under the seat, and lubed the chains once mid week each trip, each time because I rode in the rain. They don't need constant lubrication. Being internally lubedand sealed by orings, most of the chain lube you spray on the outside is to prevent rust.

[Toddman_imp]

What The Ferret said and to add, the only thing that you are lubing are the contact points where the chain meets the sprocket. I've always used a very small amount of axle grease on two links as it will distribute.

[wiredgeorge_imp]

In the early 70s, Kawasaki had chain oilers on the Z1/Z1a (73/74) and they dropped oil out of a reservoir onto the chain. They made a disgusting mess and kaw gave up on the idea in 75 or 76. Current chains don't need much in the way of oil and it mainly keeps them from rusting and not needed as lube as has been mentioned.

[flynrider]

Anybody use an automatic chain oiling system on their CB?
Which one?
Money well spent? or just spent?

I'm starting to fall into the trap of adding farkels because I can, and found one that meets all the relevant criteria - expensive, functional, simple.

I'd say it's more the latter. Chain oilers used to be popular (and relevant) in the days before sealed O-ring chains.

Given that lubrication requirements changed pretty drastically with O-ring chains, putting an oiler on now would be more like adding a retro looking accessory than a functional farkle (with the downside that it will make an unnecessary mess).

[4 Paws_imp]

What The Ferret said and to add, the only thing that you are lubing are the contact points where the chain meets the sprocket. I've always used a very small amount of axle grease on two links as it will distribute.

Interesting idea, first I've heard of that. Will give it a try.

[gossman_imp]

I believe that simply cleaning the crud off the chain on a regular basis does as much if not more in maintaining the chain as lubing it. I just wish it was less hassle.

[Ralph_imp]

Has anyone given any thought to a belt conversion kit like the Harleys? The only two things I miss from my Harley is the self cancelling turn signals and the belt drive

ralph