Why does my chain look like this?

[user11235813]

The problem with chain cleaner which I sometimes use after I've done some kero work, is that you can wipe the greasy grime of with a rag but it doesn't put out enough to actually wash it. I think you'd still need to tickle the chain with a good brush. Chain clean might be ok if you never get any sand or grit on the chain which is almost never.

[ShowBizWolf]

...SOFT bristles....I use kerosene to clean...(it is way cheaper than WD 40 or chain cleaner in aerosol, and it cleans really well...)...I use a LOT of kerosene....I slop it on the chain, and let it drip...taking the dirt off with it...very little "scrubbing" with the brush...mostly just slathering it on and letting it drip off...

I just wanted to bump this because it really helped me. Up until yesterday, I had been using wd-40 and a (clean) rag to clean the chain each time. Always wanted to try twocool's method since reading it a year ago but never got around to buying the kero or a similar brush because I liked the idea of having all the dirt drip down and off the chain.

Saving the long version of my story for my project thread, this is what I ended up using (VERY low odor too!)  and I couldn't believe the crap that washed off my two year old chain with less than 2K miles on it. (I wish I would have taken a close-up before picture.)

Thank you Cookie!

[qcbaker]

Wow, you chain looks brand new!