Can I use engine oil as chain lubricant? (2024)

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I need a substitute oil to use on my bike chains but I have heard mixed reviews about using engine oil on my chain. Is it possible to use engine oil as chain lubricant for my bike?

Can I use engine oil as chain lubricant? (7)

Kara Vanderbeek · Updated on

Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.

Finding an oil substitute with the right viscosity can be difficult, as an ideal bicycle lubricant should be thick enough to prevent metal-to-metal contact but thin enough to reach the inner components of the chain.

While it is possible to use engine oil as chain lube, it is not recommended.

Motor oil has a high viscosity, which makes it difficult for the oil to penetrate the inner chain. In turn, the thickness of the oil can impact the drag force of your bike and cause the chain to prematurely stretch and wear.

Another factor to keep in mind when choosing a chain lubricant is the type of system the oil was designed for. Engine oil is designed for a closed system, making it highly susceptible to oxidation when used in an open-air system.

This may not seem like a huge deal, but when exposed to the dirt and debris of a bike’s drivetrain, the oil will not be able to adequately lubricate or protect your chain from wear.

To find an adequate oil substitute, look for an oil with anti-wear technology, friction modifiers, and antioxidants.

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