• From: B.C.Canada
  • Registered: 2005-01-26
  • Posts: 2,588

Topic: parts washer fluid ?

I just bought a 40 gal. parts washer that is designed for water based degreasers. Will a water based cleaner be good enough for engine cleaning? I'm wondering if I upgrade the pump and used a petroleum based cleaner would it be much better? Also I'm not sure if a deodorized solvent is safe in a not so air tight double garage?

jim

'71 SB(DD only 79K(now 84K miles) & '78 FI Westy (project)
PO of '65 Beetle in '69, '70 Crewcab & '70 Ghia in '77
'71 Super inside rear vents now available
http://www.openroad.ca/volkswebbin/view … p?id=85915
  • From: Canada
  • Registered: 2004-03-27
  • Posts: 630

Re: parts washer fluid ?

I don't know the answer myself (and I wish I had a parts washer) but I'd bet the guys over on The Garage Gazette would have plenty of advice on that.

Great bunch of folks with a diverse knowledge set.

1979 Type 1 Convertible                                       1976 Scirocco (For Sale!)
1971 Type 1 Semi-Automatic Super                       1968 Type 1 Sedan
1961 Type 1 Sedan
1957 Type 1 Sunroof

Der Bugmeister's Website

  • From: B.C.Canada
  • Registered: 2005-01-26
  • Posts: 2,588

Re: parts washer fluid ?

I talked to some guys at NAPA and they say shops have always used solvents or even kerosene but they are serviced by a contractor who picks up and disposes of the chemical. However the law is changing due to workshop health concerns so water based solvents will soon have to be used in professional shops. So I think I'll try a water based cleaner first. I can always pre-clean with solvent in a spray can.

Whichever way you go the cleaning fluid costs about 3or 4  times as much as the parts washer.. Smaller one would be cheaper but I wanted to fit a half an engine case and tin pieces.

jim

'71 SB(DD only 79K(now 84K miles) & '78 FI Westy (project)
PO of '65 Beetle in '69, '70 Crewcab & '70 Ghia in '77
'71 Super inside rear vents now available
http://www.openroad.ca/volkswebbin/view … p?id=85915