I searched, but only found old stuff. Or I'm stupid and overlooked something.
So oem chains come with O ring links to help lock in. Even the manuals say no need to really lube them but rather keep conditioning the rubber O rings from dry-rott. And be careful with brushes when cleaning to not scratch n scuff them. Can anyone else vouch for this? And/or what they/you did? I just want to be sure I'm not hurting or negatively impacting my chains.
And I always say "a day without learning is a day wasted" even just anything, small or big.

 

Yes it is true that the O rings seal in the grease that the manufacturer puts there. Keeping the chain clean and lubricated on the outside keeps the O rings in good condition. I've had chains last 25K miles. Dupont makes a great Dry Teflon spray lubricant. It sprays on wet, but dries quickly and leaves a dry non sticky layer of Teflon that doesn't attract dirt. Been using for about 15 years.

 

Will concur! Lubing the chain is good for O ring life and keeping rust from forming. My OE chain lasted just over 20k. My first attempt at replacing lasted less than 2k, partially because I skipped a clean and lube after riding in wet weather. Chain was not good quality and developed rust quickly.

I like the Dupont spray but so much of it was wasted and it makes a mess of my rear wheel, which I then feel obligated to clean. I still use it occasionally but have found that gear oil goes on a lot easier.

 

I have religiously used a light oil to keep chain lubed via an automatic oiler called a 'Scottoiler' and as the other have said managed in excess of 20k miles and adjusting as and when necessary which is not very often
https://www.scottoiler.com/ am older version of the V system.