Cleaning greasy engine parts with aerosol sprays is expensive and creates heavy fumes. A parts washer provides a dedicated station for cleaning oily components. It consists of a large steel tub mounted on a reservoir tank. An electric pump draws cleaning solvent or water-based soap through a flexible metal nozzle, allowing you to wash and scrub parts under a steady stream of fluid.
Most units feature a built-in fusible link on the lid. In case of a fire, the link melts and drops the heavy steel lid automatically, smothering the flames. Always wear thick chemical-resistant gloves when washing parts. Extended exposure to solvents can cause skin irritation and strip the natural oils from your hands. Change the filters and fluid regularly to keep the washer effective.