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Very difficult to get the surface really clean without removing some of the chromate-washed surface. That surface is merely a chemical 'dip' on fresh zinc surface. It is NOT permanent, and will dissipate over a few years when in an engine compartment environment. Cars built in the 1970's were only expected to have a 5 to 7 year lifespan.
The less-caustic the cleaner, the higher the odds of retaining more of the protective surface treatment. I don't think that detergent or eco-friendly cleaners will cause much damage to the chromate wash. But they also don't get rid of carbon deposits or greasey-goo that accumulates in the nooks and crannies of the casting surface.
I use Chem-Dip for cleaning carb parts. But I don't leave pieces in very long if they still have much of the original surface left intact. Most cleaners won't do any damage to the base casting metal; but the thin chromate wash can be removed without much effort.
“Goof Off” cleaner works really well but wont take off the yellow chromate. The great feature is Goof Off can clean a carb in an less than an hour (less in ultra sound) No benefit leaving it soak for any longer.
I used Berryman carb cleaner. Disassemble completely and let soak a couple hours. Works great. Use solvent gloves and eye protection. Pretty much available at most auto parts store. Cleaned and drying in the sun.
I used Berryman carb cleaner. Disassemble completely and let soak a couple hours. Works great. Use solvent gloves and eye protection. Pretty much available at most auto parts store. Cleaned and drying in the sun.
Glad to see they still make it. I was looking for that in store a few months ago and they don't keep it on the shelves around here. Last can I had was from the 80's. I ended up using the Berryman's B-12 spray cleaner, but the dip is easier to use and I wasn't rebuilding a carb.
An ultrasonic cleaner os excellent for carbs..and a lot of other things…mine is only a gallon so limited parts fit..
all you need basically is
- 140f temp ideally
- ph neutral ..i like diluted simple green
Assumes a gentler frequency..you can scar metal if too low and aggressive..40k up should be fine..like a jewelry cleaner..
Glad to see they still make it. I was looking for that in store a few months ago and they don't keep it on the shelves around here. Last can I had was from the 80's. I ended up using the Berryman's B-12 spray cleaner, but the dip is easier to use and I wasn't rebuilding a carb.
