Parts Cleaning

[3739ford]

I'm getting ready to start cleaning the lifters, and cam for putting the Merc engine together and was wondering the best way to remove the varnish buildup off.

[Alaska Jim]

I use Stoddard ( probably spelled wrong ) solvent, meant for parts cleaning. This is a little harsh for most people, and expensive. I also used to use Diesel fuel and a little atf mixed in. I use a little atf with the Stoddard solvent also. the atf has additives that help clean. use a soft brass or some type of plastic scrub brush, so you do not mar the finish. do not forget to wear rubber gloves. all this stuff is bad for you. Back when I was first starting out as a Mechanic we never even though, or heard about using rubber gloves to protect our selves.

[rotorwrench]

Methylene chloride dip containers with remove hard carbon and varnish over time but the carb dip size containers are getting expensive. A lot of paint strippers are also based on this stuff.

[Ggmac]

I use Zep industrial purple cleaner . Wear gloves and blow dry , spray with WD-40 . Cheap , fast and water soluble.

[drolston]

Really cheap? Kerosene and steel wool. Wash Kerosene and steel wool fragments off in soap and water. Spray with Gibbs to inhibit rust while waiting install.

[gnolnor]

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I have used "Oil Eater" to clean parts. It is water soluble and biodegradable. Gnolnor

[Vics Stuff]

X2 on the oil eater
Vic

[3739ford]

Thanks guys for the info, my first choice was Kerosene, but after checking with several gas stations and then calling around town nobody sells it any longer here. There was 5 gallon can at Lowes, but gone now.

I decided to give "Oil Eater" a try since I can order it online cheaper than Walmart, and it be here faster than local stores can restock Zep. The Stoddard Solvent was quite pricey and higher shipping costs.

Again, thanks for the responses very much appreciated.

[JSeery]

TSC and Atwoods carry cleaning solvent.

[john in illinois]

I use odorless paint thinner from the hardware store in my parts washer. It is very close if not the same as Stoddard Solvent.
John

[AlexLohmann1]

Lacquer thinner also works

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

[Bob/Ohio]

Something I have used to remove varnish and carbon on engine parts is Oven Cleaner. Just spray it on, scrub it with a stiff brush, and let it work for a while on the part. Rinse parts off with hot water. Even the cheap stuff from the Dollar Stores works well.


Bob