Degreasing chassis components

[William F.]

My '62 is very original, but also has a good deal of accumulated "original" grease/oil on some chassis parts-front suspension, steering mechanism, and rear axle(going to change leaking pinion seal and rear gasket). What on the car method would you recommend for cleanup that won't destroy paint on components or harm body paint if any gets on it, or drive moisture into grease containing components-king pins, etc.?
Thanks

[Paul J.]

Re: Degreasing chassis components

It depends on how thick the grease is. Test the paint around the area and see if it's firmly adhering to the metal. If the grease is thick you might have to scrape some it off. Then scrub with an engine degreaser and then soap and water. Use a firm bristle brush. If the paint is tentative many people use a mild degreasing soap like dishwashing liquid or a cleaner like 409 (I recall that some people use Simple Green, but I'm not familiar with it).

Paul

[Jerry G.]

Re: Degreasing chassis components

Two things you can use. First, kerosene in a pump spray container. Just spray in on and let it soak. It won't remove paint but it will cut the grease and oil. The second thing is a product called Spray Nine. It cuts grease and oil also using the same technique but not as aggressive. You can find it at Home Depot and Advance Auto Parts. Home Depot sells it in gallon containers and you will probably need that much. It's only about 9 bucks a gallon. When I rinse the parts I use a 1500psi electric powerwasher. It works great and won't take paint off.

[Jerry W.]

Re: Degreasing chassis components

Please be aware that some of the components named were not painted by the General....Just saying

[William F.]

Re: Degreasing chassis components

Yes, some not painted; so was no need to ask about taking anything(but grease) off unpainted parts.
Jerry, is that pressure washing going to force water into king pins, tie rod and other lubed parts? Relube afterwards. Where's all the goop going to go after pressure washing-in the wife's driveway??

[Jerry G.]

Re: Degreasing chassis components

The pressure is not great enough to damage any parts. I normally spray the degreaser on, let it soak for awhile and then I use disposable small steel, brass brushes from harbor freight to get the heavier stuff of then hit it with the power washer. It works very well. Part of our driveway is gravel so the wife doesn't mind. If the build up is not that bad, I have placed heavy sheets of plastic under the car to protect the driveway and catch the goop then just roll it up and pitch it.