How do I know if my chain needs to be replaced? and other chain questions

[thatguy]

I'm in the process of replacing bearings which were shot to hell.

I have looked at the chain and it looks good, but covered in grease/dirt. I planned to soak it in kerosene and maybe wipe it a bit to see how it feels. Once the chain is clean, how do I know if its okay to put back on? I don't mind spending $25 for a new one, but would rather get on with this thing if I can. Do I basically make sure there arent any siezed links or do they need to be very free-swinging?

Also, my chain guard is pretty bent up but Im sure it still protects the chain a little. I don't ride in water much. what would your thoughts be on removing the chain guard/cover completely or would that be goofy on a utility atc?

[86125m]

as long as the chain isn't stretched out and the links aren't seized you can defiantly keep using it. But if you do decide to replace it make shore you sprockets aren't worn because they will make your chain were out a lot sooner than normal.

[atctim]

once the chain is clean, lay it down on the floor. Can you push it (holding onto each end) and make it shorter, or pull it and make it longer? If so, replace it. And if it is worn and needs replaced, so do both sprockets, as they all 3 wear together. As far as the chain guard, I see no problem deleting it, as I have done the same on my 1983 ATC200. Better for chain maintenance - much easier access for cleaning and lubing.

[Big G]

I would say keep the chain guard on. Though it may be bashed and dented, it still serves a purpose, and you'd be surprised how much dirt and crap it will keep off your chain/sprockets even in the condition it's in. I agree with Tim that it will of course make maintenance on the chain that much easier if it weren't there, but I think the benefits of keeping it on outweighs this.

[MPDano]

I cleaned mine with Mineral Spirits, hosed it off and blew it dry with an air compressor. Lay it on a flat surface and if it's not kinked, bent or some of the links don't move freely, then replace. If all looks good, then spray it with chain lube. You can also tell if your chain is bad as the sprockets will also be damaged.

Leo