How can I get the most out of my Parts Washer?

[DaddyGlenn]

I have a 20 gal Harbor Freight Parts washer.



(mine is all red)

I currently use a diluted water based, biodegradable cleaning fluid. (the instructions say not to use a petrol based solvent)



This works alright but I'd like better, faster degreasing. Any recommendations on a better water based cleaning fluid or where I can find a replacement pump that will handle diesel or other solvents?

[Joe Bob]

Purple Stuff......

[kodioneill]

I have the same one, I use standard parts solvent. I think they're tell you to use the other stuff cause it's GREEN. And of course it doesn't work well.

[daniel911T]

simple green?

I''ve been very disappointed by the performance of the water solubile solvents. I actually was able to tear up some pretty serious grease with a spray bottle of simple green. I seem to remember people around here saying it hurts aluminum(?)

Anyway, SG is the only water based solvent I've come across that actually degreases at all.

-Dan

[Tim Hancock]

I have had one of those for 15 years and have always used mineral spirits that I buy in 5 gallon containers from an auto paint supply store. It works OK, but I am sure there are better more expensive solvents to be had.

[911pcars]

I've always had a question about using water-based solvents in a metal tank. Any potential rusting issues? And the instructions suggest NOT to use oil-based solvents?

Sherwood

[James Brown]

Simple green is corrosive to aluminum and other non ferrous parts and is banned by the military on aircraft. And yes, will rust ferrous metals. Dry cleaning solvent (PD-680) or a mineral spirits would be my choice of solvents.

[Superman]

Kerosene works very well. Yes, I am kidding.

[mossguy]

Is there any special hazard using the mineral spirits with an electric pump? I am having the same issues with the water based "solvents".

Thanks,
Tom

[911pcars]

Originally Posted by Superman

Kerosene works very well. Yes, I am kidding.

You shouldn't be kidding. Kerosene works; has fairly low flash point and relatively inexpensive. PS: See correction below (#13)

Pumps designed to circulate cleaning solvent should be safe to use with solvent. However, confirm with the manufacturer to be on the safe side.

Sherwood

[DaddyGlenn]

I was under the assumption that oil based solvents could eat through the pump on these inexpensive tanks.

[daniel911T]

Originally Posted by 911pcars

You shouldn't be kidding. Kerosene works; has fairly low flash point and relatively inexpensive.

A low flash point for a solvent is good?

Dan

[911pcars]

Originally Posted by daniel911T

A low flash point for a solvent is good?

Dan

Actually no, quite bad. Excuse my antonymic response. Replace with "high flash point".

Thanks for saving lives.

Sherwood

[Superman]

Kerosene does in fact make an outstanding solvent, but I still wouldn't fill a solvent tank with it.

[1990C4S]

Pre-soak in diesel. Cheap, works, lasts a long time....

[Targa Time]

I have the same parts cleaner as you do. In fact I had the same questions in this forum. (see Cleaning fluid) That being said, I started using Mineral Spirits as recommended by this forum.
It works fairly good, but you will still need to use some brake or carb cleaner on the stubborn spots. By the way Mineral Spirits wont harm the pump, and it is combustable not flammable. I just make sure to have some ventilation while using. I almost bought the same cleaner you have pictured. Until I read the caution label on the back that states it is damaging to aluminum.

[fastfredracing]

******** Solvent is what you want to ask for. I have used it in my big parts washer, and my little washer ( just like yours) for years. No problems using it with the pump, at least I have not blown myself up yet. The stuff cleans great, and drys quickly. I get it at the local fuel oil company.

[ratpiper71T]

So does this type of parts washer (GLenn OP) have a holding tank to keep vapors from filling up your garage? Or do you have to drain it after every use? I'm thinking of buying one soon but not sure of how they store the solvent.

[wildcat077]

Been using varsol in mine for the last 20 years with no explosion, our spray cleaner booths between the hangars at work use varsol as well and we haven't blown any aircrafts sky high yet ... lol

Guys,there is no danger whatsoever in using varsol in your parts cleaner,although i would keep the lid closed when welding nearby

Cheers !
Phil

[silver911rdb]

LPS makes a nice line of water based cleaners. I use LPS's Precision Clean Multi purpose cleaner/degreaser. It's sold in 1,5, & 55 gal containers and can be diluted with water or run straight. With any water based cleaner if you add heat they clean better. I use the above product in my heated parts washer and i like the way it works. It doesn't clean as quickly as safety clean but it does work well and is safer for you and the environment. You might want to add a heater element to your tank if you go the water based route. Maybe heat it up a few hours before you use it.
I'm an LPS distributor (among other lines) and have worked with their area rep and that's what he recommended as a cost effective cleaner for my parts washer. He also gave me a sample of T-91 cleaner. This stuff is supposed to be as effective as the solvent based cleaners but still non-solvent based and much safer. I haven't looked up the pricing on the T-91 but I think it might be on the pricier side. You can google these 2 products for more info. i hope this info helps you out.