Tips For Cleaning and Degreasing Automotive Parts

Cleaning automotive parts is a tough job. As such, it requires a cleaner strong enough to handle the task but also one that can be used safely. Check out these tips for cleaning automotive parts before reaching for a cleaning product.

Identify the Contaminants

Before you begin cleaning any component, you must first identify what needs to be removed. The soap that will remove dirt will likely not cut through heavy contaminants such as tar or grease. You may need to use heavier solvents to get the desired results.

Some contaminants are easily identified. However, you may need to do a bit of digging to determine others. What parts you are cleaning and where they belong in the car will help you identify which items you are most likely dealing with. Some common automotive contaminants include:

• Wax
• Grease
• Dirt
• Oil and petroleum-based products
• Tar
• Adhesives

Choose the Right Cleaning Agent

Once you know what needs to be removed, you can look for the most effective cleaning agent. Keep in mind that the contaminant is only one consideration. For example, you will also need to consider the material you are cleaning. These are some of the most popular options for cleaning automotive components and tools.

Automotive Solvents

When you need a tough cleaner that can cut through grease, dirt, wax, and adhesives, it’s time to shop for automotive solvents. These are among a wider group of chemicals used to extract, suspend, or dissolve other materials. As a result, they serve a variety of purposes within any automotive shop.

Solvents come in several different forms. The liquid version is perhaps the most popular, and it is commonly found in any auto shop. It can be reused until it is no longer effective. At that time, some shops put it through a recycling and cleaning process. This removes the suspended contaminants and compacts them into a solid disc. The solvent is then able to be reused.

There are also spray solvents. These make it easy to get into small spaces, such as motors, pumps, and fans. If you opt for this type of cleaner, be sure to choose one that is non-flammable and sprays cleanly without leaving a residue.

Parts Degreasers

Parts degreasers are another type of heavy-duty cleaner. Most are solvent-based, so they have the tough cleaning power you need around the shop. In addition, they are typically formulated to be safe for specific engine components, such as wheels, battery terminals, or rubber. A high-quality foaming engine degreaser will help remove grease, residue, and grime from even the grungiest components.

Follow All Safety Guidelines

When using heavy-duty cleaners and solvents, you must be sure to follow all safety protocols listed on packaging and material safety data sheets to protect yourself from harmful exposure. While each cleaner will have a specific set of guidelines, wearing gloves and eye protection are typical precautions.

ROGO Fastener has automotive cleaners to handle any job. Shop their online store for professional quality solvents to remove grease, grime, tar, and adhesives from virtually any car or truck part. If you don’t see the product you are looking for, contact customer support to check in-store availability.