Parts cleaner fluid

[Sawmill7]

Am going to replace the cleaner in my parts washer soon. Been cleaning up a few vises and other projects. What is everyone using that is not so toxic but does a good job and doesn't cost a arm and leg. I seen some people use simple green, any good? Thanks for any input. Bill

 

[Josh the IH guy]

I use zep. The 5 gallon container. Its purple. It is very good. I recommend adding 2 gallons of water for every 5 gal. Otherwise, it can burn your skin.

 

[wornoutoldman]

Tractor Supply PSC1000 44.95 for five gallons of actual solvent

 

[Mintgrun]

The bucket of solvent that came with a used parts washer I found says naphtha on the side. It works well, but is stinky stuff. The toxicity doesn't scare me (much) and it works quite well, but for me, the smell is unacceptable for use inside the shop.

There are a number of citrus based solvents out there. You might try something like this. (I'm not sure I'd want my shop to smell like oranges either).

ORANGE, Citrus Solvent

Orange is a versatile 100% D-limonene citrus solvent with a 1000 different ways to use it. You can use it as a drain opener, odor control agent, tar remover, parts washer solvent, silk screen cleaner, electric motor and parts cleaner; just to name a few, but the possibilities are endless...

www.technichemcorp.com

 

[DOUGD]

I use the Tractor Supply solvent, 5 gallon can. It is basically a mineral spirit type solvent. Works well in my home shop parts washer, odor is minimal and cleans as well as mineral spirits.

 

[Modern Garage]

We've got two opposing suggestions here. Water based (Simple Green, Purple Power, etc.) or petroleum based (Naphtha, mineral sprits). Before making a decision the OP needs to determine whether the parts washer will survive with water based cleaner. Most pumps will fail in short order running water.
Secondary consideration is corrosion. Cleaning parts with water based detergent requires attention to prompt drying to prevent unnecessary corrosion.
Joe

 

[d42jeep]

If I need mineral spirits type cleaner I use the Tractor Supply solvent as well. I buy it in Nevada and quietly bring it across the border into California. The stuff that is legal in California is worthless, in my opinion.
-Don