Am I being overzealous?

[Blueberry]

I guess I am wondering, is it bad to remove the chain?

With a power link - no. With normal pins - yes, unless you are very careful in replacing them with new ones. Apparently new (thin to accomodate more "speeds") are not as robust when it comes to being broken and put back together.

I always ask the bike shop for a power link, and that solves the problem! I feel much better being able to put in a bottle of degreaser (diluted simple green) and shake Seems to get the crud out a little better.

Now if I could just get the blasted crud from between the cogs - need a new brush!

As far as whether it's time....it really depends (as others have said) on mileage and road conditions. I used to live in a coastal area and was constantly de-sanding, de-gritting and re-lubing to prevent wear and tear and rust. Now, it's not too bad. I do clean (at least wipe) and re-lube after rain. But, obviously, someone who rides 100 miles a month won't be on the same maintenance schedule as someone who rides 500 miles a month!

Good for you for learning to clean/take apart. I'm still learning in a big way, but it's fun, and it's empowering

Carrie Anne