I like the dishwashing machine. Put small parts in the silverware basket. Set it on the highest heat setting, use plenty of "grease-fighting" detergent, and let 'er rip. The hot water evaporates pretty fast, minimizing water damage of moving parts. Then spray the parts down with a little WD-40 (I use a ziploc bag for this) to drive out the water and restore that oily smoothness.
dishwashing soap: $0.50 use of dishwasher: broken marriage (or at least dinner and flowers) squeaky clean bike parts: priceless
Dave Ross Portola Valley, CA
Charles King wrote:
Are there inexpensive parts cleaners on the market that can be used to clean bicycle parts? I've started spraying some of the parts with citrus degreaser and using brushes, rags, and sometimes brass brushes or very fine steel wool to remove the crud, but I was wondering whether there is a faster but inexpensive solution I haven't heard about.
This is for my 1974 Motobcane Grand Record. I've stripped the bike down to the frame and am in the process of cleaning and lubing all the components, which although very dirty, look to be in excellent shape.
Thanks,
Charles King
Westchester, New York
U.S.A.