Engine cleaner vs Brake cleaner / Degreaser?

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bytecode
2.0 16v
Posts: 145
Joined: Thu Mar 17, 2011 10:39 pm
Location: Cornwall

Engine cleaner vs Brake cleaner / Degreaser?

Post by bytecode »

Hi,

does anybody know whether W5 Engine Cleaner is suitable for cleaning down the flywheel and other clutch related parts that need a clean before fitting?

The rear of the can states the following:
W5 engine cleaner removes oily grime, grease ans other remains from the engine fast and thoroughly. It protects from dampness, corrosion and has fast action properties.
Instructions for use:
Spray on cold engine and let it react, then rinse with water. Quickly separates oil from water. Use only in connection with a light liquid separator (petrol trap or oil trap).
contents:
"Over 30% alphalic hydrocarbons, 15-30% aromatic hydrocarbons."
I guess my main concerns are:
  • It doesn't state whether suitable/unsuitable for brakes, flywheels etc.
  • It states that you have to rinse off with water - I'm a bit concerned that I'm going to end up with a rusty flywheel etc.. if I do so
  • I've never used a degreaser before - so have no experience of such things
Any advice/experience appreciated.
Thank you
:)

PS: I tried googling "Alphalic hydrocarbons" and could only find "sound alike" chemicals like "aliphatic" - so I'm a little confused...
Now if I can just fit the mods from "Taxi" http://tinyurl.com/3yug4g3

I can provide PP2000/Lexia 3 code reading/clearing in the East Cornwall/West Devon area.
jasper5
3.0 24v
Posts: 3689
Joined: Fri Nov 28, 2008 1:30 pm

Re: Engine cleaner vs Brake cleaner / Degreaser?

Post by jasper5 »

Brake cleaner every time :D
bytecode
2.0 16v
Posts: 145
Joined: Thu Mar 17, 2011 10:39 pm
Location: Cornwall

Re: Engine cleaner vs Brake cleaner / Degreaser?

Post by bytecode »

jasper5 wrote:Brake cleaner every time :D
Ok, I'll order some from "the bay" now - thank you for the info.
Now if I can just fit the mods from "Taxi" http://tinyurl.com/3yug4g3

I can provide PP2000/Lexia 3 code reading/clearing in the East Cornwall/West Devon area.
User avatar
highlander
PowerFlow Shill
Posts: 3548
Joined: Sun Nov 09, 2008 5:03 pm
Location: Aberdeen

Re: Engine cleaner vs Brake cleaner / Degreaser?

Post by highlander »

WARNING: proper respiratory protection should be used when working with brake cleaner - viewtopic.php?f=5&t=13480
2002 (D9) Peugeot 406 Coupe SE, 2.2 litre Petrol. Scarlet Red/Rouge Ecarlate/Rosso Scarlatto. Black Leather interior. SOLD :(
2008 (E60 LCI) BMW 525i M-Sport, 3.0 litre Petrol. Carbonschwarz Metallic. Black Dakota Leather and Myrtlewood interior.
bytecode
2.0 16v
Posts: 145
Joined: Thu Mar 17, 2011 10:39 pm
Location: Cornwall

Re: Engine cleaner vs Brake cleaner / Degreaser?

Post by bytecode »

highlander wrote:WARNING: proper respiratory protection should be used when working with brake cleaner - viewtopic.php?f=5&t=13480
Oh yes - I read that the other day - SCARY!

Thankfully, I have a full "chemical warfare" gas mask - and I don't intend setting fire to anything either. A good reminder that we should pay heed to the warnings of such products. I do feel for the chap :(
Now if I can just fit the mods from "Taxi" http://tinyurl.com/3yug4g3

I can provide PP2000/Lexia 3 code reading/clearing in the East Cornwall/West Devon area.
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