That stuff is no gunk!

It is, or at least contains some cosmoline. And I once saw a show on television on manufacturing of bicycle chains, where the chain is soaked, under pressure in that waxy stuff. I just use a dab of White Lightning Degreaser or odorless mineral spirits on a rag to wipe new chains down (on the outside) right after installation. The lubing comes right after the very first chain cleaning some 250 or so miles later.