Deputy Dave Posted February 7, 2013 Posted February 7, 2013 Hey guys, do you think you can gain the same result by using brake cleaner instead of lighter fluid when soaking your bearings? I know that some different types of lighter fluid or acetone type alcohols are often recommended for this task. I'm not a smoker so don't have a need for lighter fluid sitting around the house. I do however use a ton of brake cleaner for cleaning weapons and lots of other use's that it's good for and have good supply of it all the time. Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences and opinions... Quote
Super User LgMouthGambler Posted February 7, 2013 Super User Posted February 7, 2013 To soak, acetone or lighter fluid. To spay out quick after soak, brake clean. Quote
BobP Posted February 7, 2013 Posted February 7, 2013 Yeah, you can use brake cleaner. I use starting fluid because it's the most volatile fluid and so penetrates and dissolves old lubricant faster. Whatever you like, as long as its will not damage stainless steel. If your bearings contain any other material, you'll have to adjust accordingly. For example, some Quantum hybrid bearings contain plastic that could be damaged by harsh solvent. Quote
Deputy Dave Posted February 7, 2013 Author Posted February 7, 2013 Thank you for your replies... Quote
Super User WRB Posted February 8, 2013 Super User Posted February 8, 2013 BrakeFree CLP is an excellent lubricating cleaner for reels in general and bearings. Avoid using keystone based solvents like acetone. Your best bet is to change out the original bearings with ABEC 05 grade bearings. Tom Quote
Super User aavery2 Posted February 8, 2013 Super User Posted February 8, 2013 BrakeFree CLP is an excellent lubricating cleaner for reels in general and bearings. Avoid using keystone based solvents like acetone. Your best bet is to change out the original bearings with ABEC 05 grade bearings. Tom Why do you recommend avoiding acetone to clean SS bearings? Quote
Kevinator1 Posted February 8, 2013 Posted February 8, 2013 I am convinced that Gun Scrubber is the best bearing cleaner out there. It is basically the same formula that Reel Scrubber used to be with a slight increase in 1 of the 2 solvents used according to the MSDS sheet. I usually spray a small amount in a shot glass and soak the bearings. I have better success with it than with acetone. Quote
Super User WRB Posted February 8, 2013 Super User Posted February 8, 2013 Why do you recommend avoiding acetone to clean SS bearings?Keystone base solvents my attack any plastic or composite reel parts. If the bearings are not sealed type and you remove them to clean, then MEK or Acetone will not affect metal parts. Tom Quote
Super User aavery2 Posted February 8, 2013 Super User Posted February 8, 2013 Keystone base solvents my attack any plastic or composite reel parts. If the bearings are not sealed type and you remove them to clean, then MEK or Acetone will not affect metal parts. Tom I see, is it common to clean bearings while they are still installed in the reel? Quote
Super User LgMouthGambler Posted February 8, 2013 Super User Posted February 8, 2013 I see, is it common to clean bearings while they are still installed in the reel? I had a feeling this comment was coming, lol. Quote
Super User LgMouthGambler Posted February 8, 2013 Super User Posted February 8, 2013 Keystone base solvents my attack any plastic or composite reel parts. If the bearings are not sealed type and you remove them to clean, then MEK or Acetone will not affect metal parts. Tom I use acetone to clean the roller bearings, which are incased in a plastic type material, and have never had a problem with them. Quote
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.