off topic rant- engine degreaser

[MotoMike]

I have been away from recreational wrenching for more than a decade. Is it just me or have they wimped down the chemicals we use to work on motors. I seem to remember engine degreaser that that had some real grunt and would melt away any grunge leaving a nice virgin aluminum surface to polish. I got two different kinds and they are fairly slow and ineffective requiring much brushing and elbow grease. Is this the government protecting us from ourselves?

[Bevel bob]

In the UK Gunk was the one to buy. I liked the smell too!,dont know if its still made to the same formula, Jizer is a bit corrosive I find and attacks tyres.

[MotoMike]

Bevelbob

Yep they were both gunk brand. one foaming and the other not. I think straight keorsene would have done a better job. Never heard of the other brand. seems like the stuff we used to use was really strong.

[miken5678]

i saw a bmw restoration with some after photos of the motor cases and to say the least I was very impressed. He noted using eagle one mag wheel etching cleaner. I managed to get most of the oil of my cases and used the spray. It was very strong and did manage to also take off all the soap scum in the shower but the resulting finish on the cases was very good not to mention smooth hands from the acid wash . You just have to be very quick and not let it sit to long.

Needless to say it worked wonders and I will be using it to do the other side of the motor cases.

[mongo]

I use cheap Family Dollar oven cleaner. Kind of weak as an oven cleaner, but degreases without hurting aluminum.