Parts Washer Fluid

[Fspp369]

Looking around there are dozens of parts washer fluids around.
Does anyone have any thoughts about the most efficient types.
My new washer is dying to have a wash.!
Peter

[abowie]

You essentially have 2 options, water based with detergent or hydrocarbon based.

Traditionally kerosene was used, but the god of OH&S decrees that potentially flammable +/- carcinogenic fluids are bad.

For the detergents you really need to have the fluid heated, and you must use eye protection as some of the agents are very alkaline and one splash will destroy your cornea.

A few years ago we tried a Snap On heated unit with their proprietary detergent cleaner and were unimpressed with the results. We have gone back to kero for cleaning, which works well. We still use CT14 for degreasing parts if we need to after cleaning them in kero.

At home I store my washer empty, with the kero in sealed jerry cans. I simply fitted a tap to the drain plug and drain it when I'm finished. This stops the whole workshop stinking of kerosene.

[Simonpfhc]

I use odourless kerosene (paraffin) in my parts cleaner. Only ever drain it once it becomes to grimy. Never get any bad smells from it as long as I have the lid closed.