best degreaser for metal parts

I use paint thinner, AKA mineral spirits. Soak the parts in it for an hour or so.

Kerosene will probably work as well.

I use diesel fuel... it's cheap (well, not anymore) and, it works incredibly well.  A gallon will go a long, long, long way!

Naphtha works great. No need to soak overnight. I use Q tips to remove gunk.

I use Naphtha.  If it is really bad I have an ultrasonic tank.  I use a witch’s brew of water, ammonia and sodium carbonate (dish washer detergent).  After 10 minutes everything comes out like new but it does remove paint and definitely not for any electronics.

Brass brush and CRC electronic cleaner.

Thanks everyone.  I'll review the options listed above.  I may hold off since I need to work in the garage in Florida where it was 97 degrees today but at least I'll know what to try.

I'm in with @DMASSO.  There was another thread today with basically the same request.  I said I use CRC 05103 QD Electronic Cleaner, available from the major online retailer.  It cleans electronics, and can flush away the caked on grease.  I just bought 6 cans so I don't run out.  Spray can with a red thingy to concentrate it on a spot.  Dries quickly and cleanly IMO.

Is it advisable to use the CRC electronic cleaner to spray the reverse unit to 'loosen' it up?

I have used it on my e units, armatures, field coils, brushplates, copper contacts, etc..  It works well.  I can't say if it 'loosens it up' since my units were basically okay, just dirty.  It won't hurt IMO, but I don't know if it'll do what you're asking.

I recently started using a cleaner called LA's Totally Awesome. Its non-toxic and biodegradable and unlike the above mentioned cleaners, non-flammable. I get it at the Lowe's I work at and have been using it to clean some old, grimy wrenches, my PitBoss smoker and some metal toys I piced up at a garage sale/ (I hope it's not another simple green )

Also I have been looking at a sonic cleaner. They have really dropped in price. I have seen great results cleaning old Harley engine parts using one of these cleaners and water.

Back in the 70s, my Dad used a product called Varsol. I have no idea where he got it, but he swore by it for cleaning electrical components on his prewar trains.

I second Totally Awesome.  Use it to degrease engines and remove brake dust.  Get it at the dollar store.  Be careful, undiluted will remove some paints and printing.

@CSXJOE posted:

I second Totally Awesome.  Use it to degrease engines and remove brake dust.  Get it at the dollar store.  Be careful, undiluted will remove some paints and printing.

It's great to remove paint on plastic or metal....have used it many times...fast working EX a Lionel f3 down to bare plastic in less then 24 hrs...works well on Lionel,Williams...not so good on MTH....

@Drummer3 posted:

Hello,  I am rebuilding a few Post war Lionel and AF  engines and need to know how to best degrease the metal parts.

I used to use pure methylene chloride back when it was available; great for grease and oil removal.  Easiest substitution has been good lacquer thinner and not that "green" stuff they push as lacquer thinner.  Too much alcohol in it to work as well as a de-greaser

Would brake fluid work for this?   

Probably not as then you'd have to clean off the brake fluid...

Grease Relief.  Available on Amazon.

Lou N

Would Dawn dish detergent work?

We buy Dawn by the case at work, degrease everything with that stuff!

Purple Power or super clean both work very good as well. We own a lot of heavy equipment and use it a lot. Both can be bought at either Family Dollar or Walmart and such

@Matt_GNo27 posted:

Would Dawn dish detergent work?

Its just barely OK for light oil, not so hot with grease. No comparison to petroleum distillates for removing grease. If you are looking for an economical solution, start with kerosine or mineral spirits, then finish off with dish soap.

Pete