A part washer is a great investment for any garage or automobile workshop that carries out manufacturing and remanufacturing processes.
It’s a machine that can save you hours of tedious work of cleaning and degreasing dirty small parts (fasteners, nuts, bolts, screws) and large parts (engine blocks, rail bearings, wind turbine gears boxes, and automotive assemblies).
But, while this machine will make cleaning parts easier, there’s the dilemma of “What kind of solvent should be used with it to get rid of grease and oil?”
The kind of solvent used with a parts washer majorly depends on the type of pump in it. You wouldn’t want to use a petroleum-based solvent with a pump designed for water-based solvent and vice versa. The best way to keep your parts washer running smoothly is by using the right solvent for it.
To help you find the best solvent for your parts washer, we have done rigorous research and assembled this well-detailed review of the 10 best parts washer solvents for you. After that, we’ll discuss some key factors to consider before buying a parts washer solvent.
[wptb id=1052]Our 10 best Parts Washer Solvent Reviews:
Here are the top 10 parts washing solvents that we found are the best among hundreds of choices-
1. B’laster 128-PWS Industrial Strength Parts Washer Solvent
To kick off this review is the B’laster 128-PWS industrial-strength parts washer solvent. This industrial-strength parts washer solvent is a petroleum-based solvent that completely removes cutting grease, motor oils, dirt, and cutting oils from parts without leaving residue.
It is perfect for cleaning engine blocks, transmission, exhaust systems, fuel tanks, and carburetors. This solvent has a flashpoint of 145°, so it’s safe to use in a heated environment. However, because it’s petroleum-based, it is flammable and should not be exposed to temperatures above 120°F.
B’laster manufactured this solvent to surpass the common mineral spirit-based solvents that don’t clean well and leave films behind. It doesn’t leave behind residue, making it one of the best parts washer solvent for cleaning rusted parts before painting. This cleaner isn’t only safe for cleaning all metals and for most plastics and painted surfaces without stripping the paint off. Be aware that this solvent cannot dissolve in water and can cause a chemical reaction if mixed with water. Also, don’t mix it with mineral spirits, as this will increase its flammability.
With the extraordinary cleaning power of the B’laster solvent, one will think it gives off a choking and harmful smell. But that’s not the case. It smells more like a deodorized mineral spirit which is not too strong of an odor. This feature makes it perfect for people who are concerned about the environment and their health. You may find the cost of this solvent to be a bit expensive when compared to other solvents, but it does what you need.
Benefits
- It cleans all metals, plastics, and painted surfaces well and doesn’t leave a residue.
- It has a non-provocative smell.
- It’s perfect for cleaning rusted surfaces before painting.
- Eco friendly cleaning solvent
Drawbacks
- It’s a bit pricier than other options.
2. CRC Parts Washer Solvent 05067
Next on the list is CRC Industries, a global leader in industrial and automotive lubricants, model 05067 solvent for parts washers. This cleaner-degreaser is another petroleum-based parts washer solvent that cleans cutting oil and grime from metals, plastics, aluminum, rubber, you name it. It isn’t corrosive and aggressive as other petroleum-based solvents. So you don’t have to mix it with water or mineral spirit as it is designed for use undiluted.
The CRC 05067 solvent comes in a 5-gallon container, which is plenty to last for a while. It has low volatile organic compounds (VOC), making it approved for use in California. This solvent gives off the same deodorized mineral spirit smell as the B’laster 128-PWS solvents. Therefore, it’s safe to use. CRC specifically designed it to have a flashpoint of 204°F, making it perfect for use in high-temperature applications. However, like every petroleum-based solvents, if left open to the atmosphere for a while, it may evaporate at a slow rate.
The CRC 05067 solvent is best for cleaning delicate machine parts like carbs and valve assemblies because of its mild corrosiveness. However, to use it to clean very dirty parts, first, soak the auto parts in it for a while and use a parts cleaning brush for excellent results. You can also use this solvent to clean guns. The only downside it has is that it leaves behind an oily film.
Benefits
- This cleaning agent works well.
- It isn’t corrosive and aggressive as other petroleum-based solvents.
- It’s best for cleaning delicate machine parts.
- It has low volatile organic compounds (VOC).
Drawbacks
- It leaves behind an oily film.
- Due to its mild corrosiveness, you may need to soak grimy parts in it for some time before cleaning it.
3. Oil Eater AOD5G35438 Cleaner/Degreaser
The Oil Eater degreaser is a high-powered, water-based, all-purpose cleaner and degreaser that’s perfect for dissolving grease and grime in industrial settings. You can use it for all types of industrial equipment parts, including food processing plants, breweries, petrochemical plants, pharmaceutical manufacturers – you name it! It removes dirt, grease, oil, and other stubborn stains from machinery while at the same time removing any unwanted odors associated with these substances. The best part is it leaves behind no residue.
This powerful solvent is non-toxic, non-corrosive, biodegradable, and has low VOC, making it safe to use health-wise and on the most sensitive surfaces. Plus, it is USDA-approved. Its unique formulation has been designed to deliver an unmatched performance that will leave your machine looking new. Whether you are running a small operation or managing a large one, this solvent will solve any problem you may have with dirty parts.
One of the unique aspects of the Oil Eater degreaser is that you can use it on any surface, material, and for both domestic and industrial use. It comes in a 5-gallon container, which lasts for a while. However, because of its concentration, you will have to dilute it before use. Each container it comes with has a dilution chart for you to follow depending on what you want to clean. Proper dilution with water will keep the oil/grease/etc., in suspension away from the part after washing.
Benefits
- It is non-toxic, non-corrosive, biodegradable, and has low VOC.
- You can use it on any surface.
- Non toxic formula ensures easy disposal
- It cleans well and leaves nothing behind.
- Removes oil and grease stains fast
Drawbacks
- You need to dilute it before using it in your part washer.
4. Graymills M5005-141 Cleaning Solvent Super Agitene 141
The Graymills M5005-141 Cleaning Solvent Super Agitene 141 is a highly concentrated solvent that provides excellent cleaning power and superior performance. It is designed to be used with automotive, industrial, commercial, and marine parts washers that are not made from plastic. It removes grease, motor oil, cutting fluids, carbon deposits, inks, and gummy residues on multiple surfaces and materials such as metals, rubber, plastics, etc. You can also use it for surface preparation before painting or coating operations.
The Graymills M5005-141 Cleaning Solvent Super Agitene 141 has been formulated from environmentally friendly compounds that are non-flammable, non-irritating, and non-toxic. Graymills manufactured it with their patented Hand Ease® lanolin formulation, which rejuvenates the skin to help reduce the chance of irritation and chapping from occurring when you use the solvent. Also, the lanolin formulation leaves a coat covering on industrial parts after degreasing to prevent them from rust.
Furthermore, the Graymills M5005-141 Cleaning Solvent Super Agitene 141 has the fastest drying time of any solvent on the market. It will leave you with cleaner, shinier, more efficient machinery in less time than ever before with no residue. This solvent has a flashpoint of 141°F (60°C), which meets local regulations where the use of high flash point solvent is required. Plus, it meets and exceeds OTC VOC regulations in some states but not California.
This solvent comes in a 5-gallon container. It is inexpensive, so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank. For those who want an all-inclusive cleaner that will not only clean but also degrease and free from corrosion, this cleaning product offers just what you’re looking for!
Benefits
- This solvent is inexpensive when compared to others in its league.
- It is made with a Hand Ease® lanolin formulation, which rejuvenates the skin to help reduce the chance of irritation and chapping.
- It has a flashpoint of 141°F (60°C).
- Does really good job in quick cleaning
Drawbacks
- None
5. Meguiar’s D10801 Super Degreaser
The Meguiar’s D10801 Super Degreaser is a powerful solvent that can cut through heavy dirt and grease with ease. This solvent is designed to be used in conjunction with an automatic parts washer. But, it can also be applied manually or mixed into various cleaning solutions for different applications. It has been proven to remove tough stains like oil, tar, and asphalt from automotive surfaces, engine compartments, and undercarriages.
The Meguiar’s powerful Degreaser is aggressive and boasts a pH level of 9-10. Due to this aggressiveness, you should dilute it with water in a ratio of 10:1 for light to medium cleaning and 4:1 for heavy cleaning. However, even if used undiluted, it won’t harm any surface once rinsed off! It is perfect for use on cars, trucks, boats, or RVs of all types and sizes. Plus, it contains no petroleum distillates. Just like most of the solvents on our list, it doesn’t leave behind any residue stain.
The manufacturer, Meguiar, used a pleasant herbal fragrance in producing this solvent, so it smells nice and keeps the environment conducive for you. You can also put this solvent in an easy-to-use trigger spray bottle that will help you to clean without any mess. Professional detailers have tested this solvent and have given it rave reviews because of how well it cleans metal surfaces. It comes only in a gallon jug, but a little of it goes a long way. You’ll find yourself saving money, in the long run, thanks to its efficiency and effectiveness.
Benefits
- It isn’t harmful to the surroundings and has a pleasant herbal odor.
- You can use it in a part washer or manually.
- It doesn’t damage metal surfaces and leaves no residue.
- It is perfect for use on cars, trucks, boats, or RV’s.
- No strong smell
Drawbacks
- It can damage the skin, so use cautiously and with gloves.
6. WD40 Company 300363 Specialist Degreaser
We all know the WD40 Company is a well-known company and has been around for a long time. They have tons of excellent products that have helped the automotive industry for years. One of their recent products is the 300363 specialist degreaser for parts washers. This cleaner is a water-based cleaner & degreaser with a unique bio-solvent formula for cleaning all kinds of surfaces. With it, you can take on greasy automotive parts, machines, floors, sensitive metals such as copper, chrome, aluminum, stainless steel, granite, leather, to mention a few. Also, for cleaning dried road tar from surfaces, no other solvent comes close to it.
The WD-40 Specialist® cleaner & degreaser has corrosion inhibitors that prevent metals cleaned with it from corroding. It is powerful than traditional cleaner or degreaser, yet safer on the skin and surfaces with less odor. This solvent comes in five different sizes (24oz, 32oz, 1 gallon, 5 gallons), but this particular one is the 1-gallon jug. One unpopular feature of the WD-40 Specialist® cleaner & degreaser is that it kills insects such as ants, flies, roaches, etc.
One downside to this solvent is that it performs poorly on tough stains and grease. This is because of the formula used. You should only consider buying this solvent if you intend to use it for light or medium cleaning. And since it’s very affordable, it’s worth considering.
Benefits
- No hazardous ingredients
- It’s safe on the skin, no harmful chemicals
- It also kills insects.
- It works well on all surfaces, leaving no residue behind.
Drawbacks
- Not suitable for cleaning extremely tough stains.
7. Berryman 0996-ARM B-9 Chem Dip Parts Cleaner
The Berryman 0996-ARM B-9 Chem Dip Parts Cleaner is a professional-grade, non-flammable, versatile solvent that can be used as an alternative to traditional solvents like acetone and alcohol. It is ideal for cleaning small parts, tools, and machinery because it evaporates quickly, leaves no residue, and does not require the use of protective equipment. It is safe for use with plastic, rubber, painted surfaces, metals, including steel, aluminum, and alloys. Plus, it is VOC compliant in the USA.
The Berryman Chem Dip Parts Cleaner can also mix with other chemicals for more specialized needs. It comes in a 2.84L durable metal container and with an Armlock 3/4 Gal Net Pail. This solvent has been developed specifically for automotive repair facilities with parts washer systems for removing varnish, sludge, carbon, and grease in valves, carburetor & transmission components, and hard-to-clean engine parts. It takes 15 to 30 minutes of soaking to thoroughly clean greasy engine parts without heat, aeration, or agitation.
The downside to the Berryman Chem Dip Parts Cleaner cleaning is that it smells and will leave a scent on your hand if you don’t wear gloves. Also, there are issues of the can getting damaged from shipping which causes the solvent to leak out.
Benefits
- It works well especially for cleaning valves, carburetor & transmission components.
- It is VOC compliant in the USA.
- It comes with an Armlock 3/4 Gal Net Pail.
- Eases up the cleaning process for oil stains
Drawbacks
- It smells and will leave a scent on your hand.
- Poor shopping may lead to damaged can and leakages.
- You’ll need to soak parts in it for a while for it to work effectively.
8. 3D Grand Blast Industrial Degreaser & Cleaner
Every day, the 3D Grand Blast Industrial Degreaser & Cleaner is being used by shops and manufacturers who own a mechanical parts washer. This industrial degreaser & cleaner provides an economical solution for those looking to keep their machine parts clean and running smoothly without spending a fortune. Its industrial-strength formula removes grease, oil, dirt, grime, and other contaminants from metal surfaces with just one application. It is safe to use in all types of machinery, mild steel, aluminum, copper, brass, cast iron, and stainless steel.
Additionally, it features non-flammable ingredients, which makes it safe for any environment! Grand Blast has been providing this solvent for over 25 years with a 95% success rate in wiping tough stains. It can remove over 95% grease while leaving no visible residue or staining on the metal surface. Ensure you do not allow it to stay on a surface for more than two minutes.
This solvent can be used with water or without water, depending on the needs of the user. With water, you can use at a dilution of 4:1 for heavy cleaning, all the way to 10:1 for light cleaning. Regardless of whichever manner you use it, it’s safe for most surfaces, as well as skin contact. However, wear hand gloves because the solvent may leave a scent on your hands. The 3D Grand Blast industrial degreaser & cleaner cleans thoroughly and fast without damage or leaving residue behind.
Benefits
- It works great and is environmentally friendly.
- It can be used with water or without water.
- It’s safe to use on surfaces, including the skin.
- Residue free cleanup on washable surfaces
- Effective cleaning performance
Drawbacks
- If left on surfaces for more than two minutes, it may cause damage.
9. Chemical Guys CLD_201 Signature Series Orange Degreaser
Whether you are cleaning car parts, a deep clean of garage equipment and machines with a parts washer, the Chemical Guys CLD_201 signature series orange degreaser is an excellent choice. It is a citrus-based formulated solvent designed to quickly and easily remove dirt, grease, tar, sap, road grime, motor oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid, and other materials from engines and machine parts.
The Chemical Guys degreaser is safe for use on any surface without causing damage to rubber, plastic, paint, or metal. You can clean just about any stain quickly and easily with no hassle with this solvent! However, it etches aluminum, and it’s not safe on a painted surface. Its orange fragrance provides a pleasant smell while also masking any unpleasant odors that may be lingering in your garage or workshop.
This all-purpose cleaner and degreaser come in a 3.79-liter container. You can also dilute it to suit different cleaning applications. Keep in mind that this solvent is prone to eat the container it comes with if stored for more than three weeks.
Benefits
- It smells great, just like citrus.
- It cleans dirt, grease, tar, sap, road grime, motor oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid, and other contaminants.
- It can be diluted to reduce the power of chemical actions.
- Perfect solvent for toughest grease
Drawbacks
- It etches aluminum and may strip painted surfaces, so not recommended for critical cleaning applications
- It eats through the container when stored.
10. POR-15 40101 Water Based Degreaser
To round up is the POR-15 40101 cleaner degreaser perfect for cleaning and degreasing of rusted parts. This solvent is water-based, and it cleans rust away like it never existed! Not only does it remove corrosive substances. But, also brake dust and grease, oil, and musty odor, without damaging even sensitive surfaces. It is a water-based cleaner. Therefore, the cleaning fluid can be diluted with hot water up to 4 to 10 times its volume and still retain its cleaning power. The best part is, it doesn’t leave behind any residue.
The POR-15 cleaner degreaser comes in a 1-gallon container. For those who may not know, POR-15 was formerly named marine clean. That said, the only downside to this solvent is that it may stain alloy surfaces.
Benefits
- It works well for cleaning and degreasing rusted surfaces.
- It is water-based, so it can be diluted.
- It doesn’t leave behind any residue.
- Extremely effective and fast acting cleaner for professional use
Drawbacks
- It may stain alloy surfaces.
Best Parts Washer Solvent Buying Guide
Parts washer solvents are used to clean parts in a parts washer before they enter the various stages of the finishing process. The type of solvent you use in your parts washer will depend on some factors and questions best answered by you. Below, we have compiled a list of factors that should be considered when deciding which solvent is best for your needs!
What type of solvent do you need?
The type of solvent you aim to purchase will depend on the specific job at hand. If you are cleaning bearings or carbs, then a petroleum-based solvent is what’s needed. Petroleum-based cleaners are often better suited for heavy-duty cleanings such as engine grease or exhaust manifolds. But must be done with caution because they can cause hydraulic parts to fail. On the other hand, a water-based solution will be just fine for cleaning the oil from a surface but may not do well on heavy-duty jobs.
The surface you intend to use the solvent on:
Solvents find use on a variety of surfaces, but some surfaces require specific types of cleaners. If your part washer is going to be washing parts for an automotive paint finish process, you will need a type of cleaner with no or minimal surfactants that leave no residue behind. On the other hand, if you have more than one surface in mind for using this particular solvent, then make sure it would work well on all before deciding!
Type of pump powering your unit:
There are two types of parts washer pumps. One is the water-based pump, and the other is the petroleum-based pump. The type of pump that powers your unit will determine what solvent you need to use. It is best to use the type of solvent listed for your power types, such as water-based solvents with a water-powered unit and petroleum solvents with a petroleum-powered unit.
How often will you be using the part washer solvents?
This factor may not even be a factor for you, but it can have an impact on how often the solvent needs to be replaced. When determining what size of solvent to purchase, consider how often you’ll be using it. If you’ll use your part washer once a month, then maybe you can get away with buying smaller quantities of cleaner and have them last for several months at a time. However, if you’re going to use the solvent every day or two days on large batches, then that may mean you’ll have to get it in a 5-gallon container or more. It all depends on how much surface area you intend to clean per cycle and how many cycles are performed each week.
Where you are going to store the solvent:
Solvents are known to leak through the container they came in when left unused for long periods. It is crucial to carefully consider where your automotive parts washer solvent will be stored before purchasing. Also, how often you will be using the solvent should factor into where it is stored.
We recommend storing solvents known to leak out of their containers in a cool and dry place like a cabinet or under your workbench. This type of storage won’t allow for any leakage to occur. However, if you plan on using it occasionally during the surface finishing process, store it near your surface prep area with adequate ventilation. As long as nothing else flammable is being used nearby, you should have no issues.
Review any safety precautions that may be needed for handling the solvent
Safety is important when it comes to the use of solvents. All parts washer solvents have their specific safety considerations, which you should read and understand before using them in your equipment. Some common risks that may be associated with using a solvent are as follows:
- Skin irritation or contact dermatitis – skin becomes red, swollen, warm, painful, or scratchy when exposed to irritants. And can lead to severe blistering and oozing from the skin.
- The irritation of your nasal passages and airways (mucous membranes), leading to breathing difficulties due to inflammation.
- Irritation of the throat causing coughing spells because fluid is not able to pass freely through the throat.
These side effects are serious. So you must ensure the solvent you will be purchasing has been approved safe to use by your local authorities.
Calculate the cost per gallon and compare it with other types of cleaners.
Before buying any parts washer solvents, it’s important you compare the cost per gallon to other solvents to know if you’re getting the best deal. This will help you ascertain if the price of the solvent is expensive or inexpensive in relation to other cleaners. You should only pay more for solvents that have been enhanced for specific surface types.
Final Thoughts
With so many options, it can be hard to know which part washer solvents will work best for your needs. We’ve narrowed down the list to 10 contenders and provided well-detailed information on each of them.
We hope this comprehensive review has been helpful for you in your search for the right parts washer solvents. As we have mentioned in the buying guide, there are several factors to consider before purchasing a part washer solvent, and they can vary from application to individual preferences.
This is why it’s so important that you read through our selections carefully and review all their features before making an informed purchase decision about what’s best for your needs! Happy shopping!
